The neighborhood attracts a diverse array of residents, from artists and creatives drawn to its cultural vibrancy to tech enthusiasts looking for a lively place to call home. Families are also a part of the fabric of this neighborhood, with the presence of Mission High, Everett Middle School, Children’s Day School, and San Francisco Friends School.

With proximity to the Castro and the Mission and accessibility to the J-Church and Market Street Muni lines, Mission Dolores is an urban commuter’s dream.

Sunbathers, frolickers, families, and dogs alike love Dolores Park for its stunning city views, picnic areas, children’s playground, and vibrant community atmosphere. 16th, 18th, and Valencia Streets offer an array of bustling restaurants, shops, and cafes. Dolores Park Cafe features delicious sandwiches, one of the best breakfast burritos in the City, and friendly service any time of day. Bi-Rite Market, a gourmet grocery store known for its locally-sourced products, artisanal foods, and delectable ice cream shop across the street, helped put 18th St. on the San Francisco culinary map. Delfina and it’s sister, Pizzeria Delfina, have been enchanting diners with their gorgeous and succulent take on Italian cuisine since 1998. Tartine is a renowned bakery offering outstanding levain, delicately lacquered croissants, and guilt-inspiring, almond-forward Bostock to fans who often are lined up around the corner. Get their early and get there hungry. Since 1999, Foreign Cinema has delighted diners who appreciate their commitment to supporting local farmers and delivering a superior yet comfortable dining experience. And they show classic and independent films in the outside dining patio. Two favorite taquerias are El Toro Taquería on 17th and Valencia and Taquería El Buen Sabor just a block away. Both have amazing burritos. Catch a drink with friends at institution Zeitgeist on their convivial patio, grab a beer at the 500 Club for a slice of old-world dive bar charm, or cruise up to Blackbird on Market for a special, artisanal cocktail.

Architecture wonks will love the façades of Mission High and Everett Middle School, which are a short walk from the old Levi Strauss Building on Valencia near Duboce. The former jeans factory now is home to San Francisco Friends School, a favorite K-8 independent school. Just several blocks away is Children’s Day School, which offers a Preschool-through-8th program on two campuses. One has a farm and garden, and the other is a converted church!

Art enthusiasts will marvel at Clarion Alley, a vibrant mural-covered alley that serves as a public art space and a symbol of the neighborhood's creativity. Similarly, Balmy Alley, another stunning mural-filled alley in the neighborhood, offers representation and visibility of Latino culture and social justice themes. The Roxie Theater was founded in 1912 and is a nonprofit community arthouse cinema. Finally, don’t miss Carnaval San Francisco, an annual tradition started in 1979, celebrates the neighborhood’s and San Francisco’s rich cultures with colorful parades, music and dance performances, international cuisine, local artists, and over 400 vendors across 17 blocks and two days!