The Mission is a haven of marvelous Mexican meals.
The Mission District in San Francisco might not be one of its more renowned tourism draws, but it's a lively locale for anyone interested in the local Latino culture and cuisine. A boisterous nightlife, offbeat shopping sites and delicious downscale dining are definite highlights.
Instructions
1. Make sure to spend some time on the district's main artery, 24th Street, a bastion of activity day and night. Standouts include the colorful Galeria de la Raza for shopping or just browsing and the snazzy Velvet Cantina for a memorable meal or late-night drink.
2. The convergence of 16th Street and Valencia is the district's other main hub, and a perfect place for window-shopping, people-watching and getting in and out of the neighborhood via the well-used BART (subway) station. One of the Mission's best and most affordable taquerias-Pancho Villa's-is on 16th, where you just might have the best cheap meal of your life.
3. For some of the city's most unusual shopping ops, check out Therapy on Valencia St. (near 16th), a weird mix of home furnishings, cool clothes and unique gifts; the Candy Store on 16th, a great women's store with everything from chic shoes to office supplies and Saffron Rare Threads, an impressive vintage clothing shop on 17th.
4. Dolores Park is a great little rural retreat from the sidewalk activity. You'll find sweeping views of the city and bay, nice spaces for picnicking and just lazing about, and activities ranging from jogging to pick-up soccer games.
5. Some of the city's most infamous nightspots can be found in the Mission, including the rollicking Elbo Room (on Valencia between 17th and 18th) and the always-crowded Make-Out Room on 22nd. For something on the funkier side, try the Attic on 24th, with cheap drinks and a casual feel.
6. To soak in some of the culture and history of the district, visit the Mission Dolores adobe chapel at the corner of Dolores and 16th. The unimposing structure is one of the oldest in the city, and the grounds and gardens add to its charm.
7. For some diversion that's a bit different, check out the old-timey Roxie Theater on 16th, showing a mix of odd documentaries and indie films. The enchanting Victoria Theatre, also on 16th, dates back to 1908 and shows some one-of-a-kind live dramatic performances.
Tags: city most, Mission District