440 Castro: A Castro District Landmark

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A Castro District staple, 440 Castro is a lively gay bar with a welcoming atmosphere, strong drinks, and a rich history in San Francisco's LGBTQ+ community.

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440 Castro

440 Castro is a popular gay bar in the heart of San Francisco's Castro District, known for its friendly atmosphere and strong drinks. A long-standing neighborhood institution, it has catered to the bear and leather community since 1979, evolving through different names before becoming 440 Castro in 2005.

A brief summary to 440 Castro

440 Castro St, San Francisco, The Castro, California, 94114, US
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Monday 12 pm-2 am
Tuesday 12 pm-2 am
Wednesday 12 pm-2 am
Thursday 12 pm-2 am
Friday 12 pm-2 am
Saturday 12 pm-2 am
Sunday 12 pm-2 am

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring 440 Castro.

440 Castro is cash-only, so hit up an ATM beforehand.
Visit during a special event like San Francisco Pride for an extra lively atmosphere.
Check out their weekly underwear night for a unique Castro experience.

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Getting There

Walking

From the Castro Theatre, simply cross Castro Street to reach 440 Castro. It's centrally located and easily accessible on foot within the Castro District.
Public Transport

440 Castro is conveniently located near the Castro Street Station, served by Muni Metro lines J, T, and M. A single ride on Muni costs $3.00, or $2.50 if you use a Clipper card or the MuniMobile app. A day pass, good for unlimited rides on Muni buses, trains, and historic streetcars, is available for $5.70 via the MuniMobile app.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in San Francisco. A short taxi ride within the Castro District will likely cost between $8 and $15, depending on distance and traffic. Keep in mind that taxi fares start at $4.15, with an additional $0.65 for each additional one-fifth of a mile.

Discover more about 440 Castro

440 Castro, located at 440 Castro Street, stands as a cornerstone of San Francisco's vibrant Castro District. This lively gay bar has a rich history, reflecting the neighborhood's evolution as a hub for the LGBTQ+ community.Originally opened in 1979 as Bear Hollow, the bar quickly became a haven for the bear and leather scene. Over the years, it transitioned through names like The Bear and Daddy's, before new owners rebranded it as 440 Castro in 2005. Today, it remains a beloved neighborhood spot, drawing both locals and tourists with its unpretentious vibe and welcoming atmosphere.440 Castro is more than just a bar; it's a place to meet friends, old and new, especially during major events like San Francisco Pride, Up Your Alley, and the Folsom Street Fair. The bar is known for its packed weekends, attracting a diverse crowd of men who enjoy the intimate interior and strong drinks. With its central location across from the historic Castro Theatre, 440 Castro embodies the spirit and energy of this iconic San Francisco neighborhood.