The Civic Centre San Francisco neighbourhood, located in the centre of the city, provides a wide range of interesting activities. Enjoy the following outstanding sights while soaking in the lively atmosphere there:
10. Top Activities to Experience in San Francisco’s Civic Center
1. Discover the Asian Art Museum’s Wonders
Explore the fascinating world of the SF Asian Art Museum, one of San Francisco’s renowned museums and a personal favourite of mine. This cultural gem displays unique treasures found nowhere else on Earth with a stunning permanent collection that includes over 17,000 fascinating artefacts. Get ready to be astounded by the depth and variety of Asian art.
City Hall: A Grandiose Symbol
Admire City Hall’s splendour, a masterpiece of architecture that adorns the Civic Centre. This well-known structure, embellished with regal domes and fine details, stands as a testament to local pride. Discover the historical grandeur of its halls and the location of San Francisco’s government.
Take a Deep Dive into the Performing Arts Scene
Fans of the performing arts will find a sanctuary at the Civic Centre in San Francisco. Within its revered spaces, take in the elegance of ballet, the enticement of opera, and the harmony of symphony. Stunning performances by our renowned ballet, opera, and symphony organisations will enthral you.
2. Orpheum’s Broadway Extravaganza
At the famed Orpheum Theatre, indulge your passion of the theatre by attending a glittering Broadway production. Get ready to be mesmerised by breathtaking creations, music that will stay in your head, and fascinating performances that will have you spellbound.
Gorgeous Shows at the Sydney Goldstein Theatre
At the Sydney Goldstein Theatre, immerse yourself in the world of live theatre. Watch exceptional performances by brilliant performers in engrossing dramas, belly-laugh-inducing comedies, or thought-provoking plays. Get ready to be captivated by the incredible artistry on exhibit.
Bill Graham Civic Auditorium: Memorable Concerts
The Bill Graham Civic Auditorium is the place to be for a night of musical bliss. Experience the fervour and thrill of live performances by renowned musicians from a variety of genres. Allow the music to move you as you make priceless memories in this fantastic setting.
Limits and Environment
Market Street and Turk Street form the southern and northern boundaries of the Civic Centre neighbourhood in San Francisco. This thriving neighbourhood, which stretches from east to west between Leavenworth and Gough & Franklin, is a centre for artistic and cultural expression.
As you set off on an exciting tour filled with art, culture, and enthralling performances, embrace the lively energy of the Civic Centre neighbourhood in San Francisco. Take in its intricate tapestry and make treasured experiences that you will remember long after your visit.The Magnificent Orpheum Theatre offers Broadway performances.
There are several theatres in San Francisco, but none can compare to the splendour and fame of the Orpheum. Some of the biggest Broadway plays in the country, such as Hamilton, Wicked, and The Lion King, have graced this illustrious theatre over the years.
Simply click the link provided below to view the complete schedule of theatrical events taking place at the Orpheum and other theatres in San Francisco.
3. Stop by the city hall
City Hall stands out as my particular favourite among San Francisco’s many fascinating attractions. The Civic Centre District’s beating centre is where this architectural marvel is located. Being a public building, tourists are invited to enter for free and take in its breathtaking atmosphere.
You can be in awe of the grand staircase, the stunning rotunda, and the quaint South Light Room little museum inside.
4. Enjoy a Performance of SF Ballet
The SF Ballet, one of the country’s oldest ballet groups, is also a blessing to this neighbourhood. They were notable for being the first to stage The Nutcracker performance in the Americas.
Every December, they stage The Nutcracker, which continues to be one of their most cherished productions.
5. Enjoy the World-Class SF Symphony’s Music
You’ll have plenty of chances to indulge in high culture in this thriving area of San Francisco. The San Francisco Symphony is a particularly well-liked option that has received praise from all across the world.
This prestigious group performs on stage many times each week, frequently working with renowned international guests performers.
6. Attend a Concert at the Bill Graham Centre
Attend a concert at the famed Bill Graham Civic Auditorium to fully experience San Francisco’s thriving music culture. Some of the most renowned performers from around the globe, such as Zedd, Nghtmre, and Kaskade, perform at this legendary venue. You can anticipate to see four to five exciting shows each month thanks to an amazing lineup.
7. Experience Its Rich Heritage on a Free Walking Tour
Join the Civic Center/City Hall walking tour to set out on a riveting adventure across San Francisco’s fascinating neighbourhoods. Through the San Francisco Public Library, committed volunteers provide this exceptional experience free of charge. On either Tuesday or Thursday, start your tour at the Main Library and explore the fascinating past and contemporary culture of this vivacious city. There is no requirement to make a reservation in advance, and the tour is available all year round.
8. Take pleasure in SF opera
You may experience the magnificent operatic world at the Civic Centre in San Francisco. Within this cultural center’s walls, the San Francisco Opera performs a charming repertoire from September through December as well as from June through July. Be ready to be mesmerised by classic works like Carmen, The Marriage of Figaro, and The Barber of Seville. At the stunning War Memorial Opera House, all performances are held.
9. Watch a performance at Herbst Theatre
The Herbst Theatre, housed in the opulent War Memorial Veteran’s Building, is a genuine gem in the Civic Centre neighbourhood of San Francisco. This gorgeous location has been holding a stunning variety of events since its opening in 1932 and presents up to 200 enthralling shows every year. The Herbst Theatre offers an intimate setting for exceptional creative experiences with little under 900 seats.
10. Engaging Conversations at the Sydney Goldstein Theatre
The prestigious Sydney Goldstein Theatre is yet another must-see destination in San Francisco’s Civic Centre. This outstanding facility is recognised for its thought-provoking conversations and engrossing live lectures, which are frequently broadcast on public radio. The stage has already been graced by notable visitors like Annie Leibovitz, Misty Copeland, and Michael Eric Dyson. Get ready to be inspired and informed by the thought-provoking discussions that take place within this extraordinary theatre.
Best Hotels in San Francisco’s Civic Centre
Find out about some of the best hotels in or close to Civic Centre, San Francisco.
333 Fulton Street, the Inn at the Opera, has a 3.5-star rating.
- Enjoy a wonderful setting only a short distance from the San Francisco Opera House
- Experience a European-style bed and breakfast.
- Take advantage of the free WiFi, room service, and suite availability.
- The nightly minimum rate for a room is roughly $195.
2.5-star Phoenix Hotel is located at 601 Eddy Street.
- Discover a trendy, colourful, and energetic hotel located in a distinctive and developing neighbourhood.
- Even though it has excellent reviews, it is still a good idea to read them before booking to get a full sense of the hotel and its surroundings. There may be a range of viewpoints on the location.
- The nightly rent for a room starts at about $195.
Days Inn at Civic Centre: Rated two stars, located at 465 Grove Street
- This hotel is set up like a motel and offers free parking for visitors.
- During your stay, take advantage of free
- WiFi and breakfast. Room rates start at about $130 per night.
3.5-star Holiday Inn at Civic Centre, 50 8th Street
- Conveniently situated a few blocks south of City Hall is a larger hotel.
- Take advantage of complimentary WiFi, an on-site restaurant and bar, and a fitness centre.
- beginning at about $160 per night for a room.
Booking.com has the most affordable hotel rates. The majority of accommodations allow for free cancellation in case your plans change. Visit Booking.com here to read the most recent guest reviews and find great deals.
Additional lodging choices in San Francisco according to price and neighbourhood
How to reach the San Francisco Civic Centre
The Civic Centre San Francisco may be reached in around 30 minutes if you are coming from Fisherman’s Wharf. The following are suggested modes of transportation:
- 49 Bus: Take one of these buses from Fisherman’s Wharf’s western side, and it will drop you off at McAllister and Van Ness, directly across from City Hall.
- San Francisco Taxis/Uber/Lyft: Depending on traffic, using a taxi, Uber, or Lyft will cut your trip time to about 15 minutes and cost you $20 to $30.
Looking around Union Square
You only have to walk a few blocks to get to the lively neighbourhood of Union Square. There are two options available to you: either take a leisurely stroll down Market Street, which leads to the magnificent Civic Centre Plaza, or use one of the practical transit options provided below. It takes about 15 minutes to get there, whichever path you take.
- F Streetcar: You can board and exit at any time on this charming method of transit, which makes several stops along Market Street.
- Light Rail Muni Train: Start your journey by boarding the Muni Train at Powell Street Station. You can exit at either the Civic Centre Station or the Van Ness Station from there, both of which are conveniently located within a short stroll from the busy Civic Centre San Francisco. This route is served by a variety of light rail trains, including the J, K, M, and N, making it simple to reach these stations.
- Taxi, Uber, or Lyft: From Union Square, getting a taxi or using a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft offers a quick and effective way to get to Civic Centre San Francisco. The average travel time is less than ten minutes, and the trip is expected to cost between $15 and $20.
Jump On/Jump Off
Consider taking the Hop On/Hop Off Tour Bus for a distinctive and thorough tour of the area. With this practical bus service, you may get out at Civic Centre Plaza and be right in the middle of the excitement. Please refer to the website’s supplemental material for more details about the Hop On/Hop Off Bus Tour.
Driving & Parking in San Francisco’s Civic Centre
Visitors often choose to drive to Civic Centre San Francisco. Parking, though, can provide difficulties, so it’s necessary to remember that. We’ve compiled a list of the top parking options below:
- Civic Centre San Francisco Garage: This parking garage is tucked away beneath Civic Centre Plaza, between City Hall and the Asian Art Museum. You can enter this garage at 355 McAllister Street, which is a short distance from the neighbourhood performing arts centres.
- Performing Arts Garage: The Performing Arts Garage is a great substitute and is easily located at the corner of Grove and Gough Streets. This garage is located at 360 Grove Street.
- Impark: Located at Essex Fox Plaza, Impark is a different nearby parking garage. 1390 Market Street is home to the main entrance, which is reached through Hayes Street. Make sure your mapping application directs you to the Hayes entrance.
Hello there! I’m Dennis, and I am delighted to welcome you to San Francisco Discovery Guide. As a lifelong resident of this magnificent city, I am thrilled to share my love and knowledge of San Francisco with fellow adventurers like yourself.
Growing up amidst the breathtaking landscapes, eclectic neighborhoods, and vibrant culture of San Francisco, I developed a deep appreciation for the city’s unique charm. Over the years, I’ve explored its nooks and crannies, uncovered hidden gems, and created countless unforgettable memories.