The Golden Gate Theatre, nestled in the heart of San Francisco, stands as one of the city’s premier performance spaces. Annually, it plays host to numerous high-profile Broadway productions, ensuring a vibrant performance calendar throughout most of the year.
The theatre is conveniently located in San Francisco’s renowned Theater District, adjacent to Union Square, the Tenderloin, and Market Street, making it easily accessible from all corners of the Bay Area, whether by public transport or private vehicle.
2023 Productions
- 8/1 – 8/27: Tina – The Tina Turner Musical, reserve tickets
2024 Productions
- 1/16 – 2/11: The Wiz
- 7/30 – 8/18: Girl from the North Country
San Francisco’s Vibrant Theatre Scene
Beyond the Golden Gate Theatre, the city of San Francisco boasts a plethora of other theatrical venues, spanning from grand auditoriums to intimate, avant-garde spaces. These venues host a year-round spectrum of performances encompassing a myriad of genres.
Audiences can indulge in a variety of famous as well as innovative dramas, comedies, musicals, and boundary-pushing experimental productions from a diverse array of theater companies.
To discover all the upcoming performances in San Francisco, including scheduling and ticketing details, follow the provided link.
Attending a Performance at the Golden Gate Theatre
The Golden Gate Theatre is situated at 1 Taylor Street, in close proximity to Union Square and a short distance from Fisherman’s Wharf, ensuring easy accessibility.
Parking Information
Should you choose to drive, there are numerous parking options available in the vicinity, although it’s important to note that parking rates can be quite steep in this area. Here are four nearby options, all within a few blocks of the theatre:
Golden Gate Garage, Turquoise Parking: 64 Golden Gate Ave. A dedicated theatre parking lot, it opens 3 hours before the performance starts and closes 1 hour afterward.
Turk Garage/Lot, Turquoise Parking: 67 Turk St. Another designated lot for theater goers, also operating 3 hours pre-show and remaining open for 1 hour post-show.
California Parking Lot: 400 Taylor St.
California Parking Lot: 199 Turk St.
Public Transportation Options
Given the Golden Gate Theatre’s prime location near Market Street, an array of public transportation options are available. Here are some of the top choices:
Buses: 6, 7, 9, 21
Light Rail – Powell Station: J, K, L, M, N
BART: Exit at the Powell Station and continue west on Market Street. The theatre is just two blocks away.
Navigating from Fisherman’s Wharf
The optimal routes from Fisherman’s Wharf to the Golden Gate Theatre involve either cable car or the F streetcar.
Both the Hyde/Powell and the Mason/Powell cable cars halt at Powell Street, which is the closest stop to the theatre. From there, proceed to Market Street and head west for two blocks.
The F streetcar offers an even closer drop-off. Disembark at the Market and Taylor stop, placing you directly opposite the Golden Gate Theatre.
Recommended Accommodation Options in Close Proximity
Below, you will find a collection of distinguished hotels situated within walking distance of the theater.
- Hotel Abri: Positioned at 127 Ellis Street, a reputable 3.5-Star Hotel.
- Hotel Nikko: Located at 222 Mason Street, a remarkable 4-Star Hotel.
- Hotel Zetta: Sits at 55 5th Street, a notable 4-Star Hotel.
- Hotel Zelos: Situated at 12 4th Street, a commendable 4-Star establishment.
Exciting Eateries for Pre or Post Show Dining
Here are some of my personal favourite establishments in the vicinity where I regularly enjoy a meal and perhaps a cocktail prior to the performance.
MONTESACRO Pinseria SF: Specializes in Roman-style pizza, nestled at 510 Stevenson St.
54 Mint SF: A delightful destination for Italian cuisine predominantly Roman-style, located at 16 Mint Plaza.
Soma Restaurant & Bar: Offers Mediterranean & Italian dishes, at 85 5th St.
Westfield San Francisco Centre Food Court: Provides a diverse selection from seafood to Japanese cuisine, sandwiches, and salads, located at 865 Market Street.
Dress Code for San Francisco’s Theatrical Venues
The vibe in San Francisco’s theatres leans more towards casual. However, dinner and a play present an excellent opportunity to dress up slightly and immerse in the city’s vibrant nightlife. You’ll encounter a broad spectrum of attire from jeans and business-casual to semi-formal clothing.
If you plan to visit the Golden Gate, one of the more grand and intricately decorated theaters, you may wish to dress a bit more formally than your typical day-out attire.
A Glimpse into the History of Golden Gate Theater, San Francisco
The Golden Gate Theater first opened its doors as a vaudeville house in 1922. Later, it transitioned into a concert venue featuring iconic artists such as Nat King Cole and Frank Sinatra, eventually becoming a movie theater.
Throughout its transformations, much of its elegant interior was demolished in favor of a more contemporary look.
However, by the late 1970s, the theater regained its Art Deco splendor and re-emerged as a performing arts venue under the guidance of SHN, a premier theater production company in SF, led by successful Broadway producers.
Over the years, SHN has hosted a number of Broadway sensations like Jersey Boys and Avenue Q at the Golden Gate, as well as pre-Broadway premieres, including Wicked and Mamma Mia!
Additional Theater Pages that May Interest You
San Francisco Theater District: Are you seeking further advice for attending a show at the Golden Gate Theater San Francisco or other local theaters?
SF Opera: If you have a penchant for performing arts, consider a visit to the War Memorial Opera House for an enchanting performance by the SF Opera. They host two seasons per year: one during fall and early winter, and another in summer.
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.