Mission Travel Guide

A complete guide to Mission, San Francisco, including things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and local culture and customs.


Introduction to Mission

Mission is a vibrant neighborhood located in San Francisco, California. Known for its multicultural flair, Mission offers a diverse array of attractions, outdoor activities, and delicious food options to explore. Founded in 1776, Mission is steeped in history and is an essential destination for those seeking a culturally rich experience.

List of Places to Visit in Mission

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mission Dolores - Founded in 1776, the Mission Dolores is the oldest building in San Francisco and a symbol of the neighborhood’s rich history. Visitors can explore the chapel, cemetery, and a small museum to learn more about the Mission’s past.
  • The Women’s Building - A community center dedicated to empowering women, The Women’s Building features beautiful murals reflecting the feminist movement and is a hub for social and political activities.
  • Balmy Alley - Located in the heart of Mission, the Balmy Alley is home to an eclectic mix of Latino street art, with murals and street art that reflect the culture and traditions of the neighborhood.

Natural Attractions of Mission: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Dolores Park - A popular destination for locals and visitors, Dolores Park is a beautiful green space with stunning views of San Francisco. The park is perfect for a picnic, outdoor games, or just relaxing in the sun.
  • Bernal Heights Park - Offering sweeping views of San Francisco Bay, Bernal Heights Park is a hidden gem in Mission. Hike to the summit to catch a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge.
  • Alemany Farmers Market - A lively farmers’ market held every Saturday, Alemany is a great place to stock up on local produce, baked goods, and artisanal foods.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mission

  • Mission Creek Park Trail - A 2.7-mile trail that follows the winding Mission Creek through the heart of Mission, offering beautiful views of the city’s skyline and the Bay.
  • Bernal Heights Park Trail - A moderate hiking trail that takes visitors to the top of Bernal Heights Park, offering stunning panoramic views of San Francisco.

Best Things to Do in Mission: Activities and Tours

  • Mission Street Food Tour - Sample the eclectic cuisine and flavors of Mission on a food tour that takes you to the best street food vendors and food trucks in the neighborhood.
  • The Roxie Theater - A community-run movie theater that has been screening indie films since 1909. The Roxie offers an authentic San Francisco experience and is a must-visit for movie buffs.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mission

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Mission Dolores and the Women’s Building
Day 2 Explore the street art of Balmy Alley and Enjoy a picnic at Dolores Park
Day 3 Hike to the summit of Bernal Heights Park and Catch a sunset at Twin Peaks
Day 4 Shop for local produce at Alemany Farmers Market and Take a street food tour
Day 5 Bike the Mission Creek Park Trail and Enjoy an indie film at The Roxie Theater
Day 6 Visit the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and Enjoy a day in the Yerba Buena Gardens
Day 7 Explore the eclectic shops and cafes of Valencia Street and Sample local craft beer at Southern Pacific Brewing

Food and Drink Scene of Mission

Must-Try Dishes

  • Burritos - A Mission staple, burritos are a must-try at one of the many taquerias in the neighborhood.
  • Mission-style Pizza - A unique blend of traditional and new world flavors, Mission-style pizza features a thick, sourdough crust and fresh local ingredients.
  • Churros - A sweet and crispy pastry that is a popular snack in Mission.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer - With a thriving craft beer scene, Mission is home to several notable breweries, including Southern Pacific Brewing and Almanac Beer Company.
  • Agua fresca - A traditional Mexican drink made from fresh fruit, water, and sugar, agua fresca is a refreshing and healthy beverage.

Where to Stay in Mission: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Mission Inn - Budget-friendly hostel that offers private and shared rooms in the heart of Mission.
  • Hotel Zoe Fisherman’s Wharf - A luxury hotel with spacious rooms and stunning city views.

What to Buy in Mission: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Local Art and Crafts - Mission is home to numerous art galleries and craft shops selling unique, handmade pieces.
  • Mission-style Pizza Dough - Bring home a taste of Mission with fresh sourdough pizza dough from local bakeries.
  • Mexican Folk Art - Mission is strongly influenced by Mexican culture, and local shops offer a variety of traditional folk art, including hand-painted ceramics and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Mission

Mission is a culturally rich neighborhood with a strong Mexican influence. The neighborhood has a long history of activism and social justice, and visitors should be respectful of the local community’s values and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Mission

The best time to visit Mission is in the fall and spring when the weather is mild, and the crowds are thinner. Summer can be busy, and prices for accommodations and activities can be higher.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mission

Do:

  • Explore the rich history and cultural diversity of the neighborhood.
  • Try the local food and craft beer.
  • Support local art and community programs.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.
  • Ignore the homeless population in the neighborhood.
  • Participate in gentrification and displacement of local residents.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mission

Mission is generally safe, but visitors should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, especially at night.

Health in Mission

Mission has a high rate of homelessness and drug use, and visitors should avoid areas where these issues are prevalent.

Getting to Mission: Transportation Options and Logistics

  • San Francisco International Airport - Mission can be reached by taxi or public transportation from the airport.
  • Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) - The BART system serves Mission, and visitors can use BART to travel to other areas of San Francisco and the Bay Area.
  • Muni - San Francisco’s public transportation system, Muni offers several lines that serve Mission, including buses and streetcars.

How to Get Around in Mission

Mission is a walkable neighborhood, and visitors can easily explore the area on foot. The neighborhood is also served by several public transportation options, including buses and streetcars.

Where to Go Next from Mission: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Golden Gate Park - A massive green space in the middle of San Francisco, Golden Gate Park offers a variety of attractions, including the de Young Museum and the Japanese Tea Garden.
  • Alcatraz Island - A notorious former prison in the middle of San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz Island offers guided tours and stunning views of the city.
  • The Presidio - A former military base turned national park, the Presidio is home to several hiking trails, historic sites, and cultural events.

Conclusion

Mission is a vibrant neighborhood with a rich history and cultural diversity. From the street art of Balmy Alley to the delicious local food, there is something for everyone in Mission. With this comprehensive guide, visitors can explore all that the neighborhood has to offer and experience the true spirit of San Francisco.

Guitar man mural on Balmy Alley Guitar man mural on Balmy Alley Mission Dolores Basilica, next door to the original Mission Mission Dolores Basilica, next door to the original Mission Roxie Cinema Roxie Cinema Opera cake, Tartine Bakery Opera cake, Tartine Bakery