The Majestic Old Saint Mary's Cathedral: A Historic Gem in San Francisco
Explore the historic Old Saint Mary's Cathedral in San Francisco's Chinatown, a stunning architectural gem with rich cultural heritage.
Old Saint Mary's Cathedral, nestled in the heart of Chinatown, is a stunning architectural masterpiece that offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history and spiritual heritage of San Francisco. With its beautiful stained glass windows and serene atmosphere, it’s a must-visit for those seeking both culture and tranquility.
A brief summary to Old Saint Mary's Cathedral
- 660 California St, San Francisco, Chinatown, California, 94108, US
- +1415-288-3800
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 12:15 pm-6:15 pm
- Sunday 8:15 am-11:45 am
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience, as weekends can be busier with tourists and locals.
- Don't miss the chance to admire the intricate stained glass windows up close; the light creates a beautiful atmosphere.
- Check the cathedral's schedule for special events or concerts that may coincide with your visit.
- Consider visiting early in the morning when the cathedral's serene ambiance is at its best.
- Combine your visit with a walk around Chinatown to fully experience the cultural richness of the area.
Getting There
-
Bus
From downtown Berkeley, walk to the nearest bus stop on Shattuck Ave. Catch the AC Transit bus line 51B heading towards San Francisco. Stay on the bus for approximately 30 minutes until you reach the stop at California St & Kearny St. From there, walk 2 blocks west on California St to reach Old Saint Mary's Cathedral at 660 California St.
-
BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit)
Start at the Downtown Berkeley BART station. Take the BART train towards San Francisco/Daly City. Get off at the Montgomery St. station, which is about a 25-minute ride. After exiting the station, head east on Market St, then turn left onto Kearny St. Walk 3 blocks to reach California St, then turn right and walk 1 block to arrive at Old Saint Mary's Cathedral located at 660 California St.
-
Walking
If you are near the UC Berkeley campus, head south towards Telegraph Ave. Continue walking down Telegraph Ave until you reach the intersection with Bancroft Way. Turn left onto Bancroft Way and follow it to Shattuck Ave. Turn right onto Shattuck Ave and walk south until you reach the intersection with California St. Turn left onto California St and walk 6 blocks to arrive at Old Saint Mary's Cathedral at 660 California St.
-
Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
Open your rideshare app (Uber or Lyft) and set your destination to '660 California St, San Francisco, CA 94108'. The driver will pick you up from your current location in Berkeley and take you directly to the cathedral. The ride usually takes about 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Discover more about Old Saint Mary's Cathedral
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Viewpoint
0.0 km
Discover the stunning vistas and rich history at San Francisco's iconic Viewpoint, a must-see landmark in the heart of Chinatown.
Dr. Sun Yat Sen Statue
0.1 km
Explore the Dr. Sun Yat Sen Statue in Chinatown, a landmark celebrating the legacy of modern China's founding father amid vibrant San Francisco culture.
751 Commercial St
0.1 km
Explore the vibrant culture and rich history of San Francisco's Chinatown at 751 Commercial Street, a must-visit destination for every traveler.
California Theatre
0.2 km
Explore the California Theatre, a historic landmark in Chinatown, showcasing the architectural beauty and vibrant culture of San Francisco.
Stockton St
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Stockton Street in San Francisco, where culture, cuisine, and shopping come together for an unforgettable experience.
Chinatown Flags Street
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant cultural heritage of Chinatown Flags Street, a must-visit landmark in San Francisco filled with history and colorful traditions.
Belden Place
0.3 km
Explore Belden Place, a charming historical landmark in San Francisco, where delightful dining and stunning architecture come together in a unique atmosphere.
California Historical Landmark 87: Site of First United States Mint in California
0.3 km
Explore the historical significance of California's First United States Mint site, a cornerstone of America's financial heritage in vibrant San Francisco.
743 Washington St
0.3 km
Explore the unique architectural beauty and cultural richness of 743 Washington St in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown district.
California Historical Landmark 819: Hudson's Bay Company
0.3 km
Discover the rich history of Hudson's Bay Company, a pivotal landmark in San Francisco's Chinatown, reflecting the city's vibrant past and cultural diversity.
San Francisco Historical Society
0.3 km
Explore the rich history of San Francisco at the San Francisco Historical Society, a local history museum that showcases the city's vibrant past.
California Historical Landmark 192: Site of the Jenny Lind Theatre and San Francisco City Hall
0.3 km
Discover the historical significance of the Jenny Lind Theatre and San Francisco City Hall, a captivating landmark in the heart of Chinatown.
Chinese Historical Society of America Museum
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant history and cultural legacy of Chinese Americans at the Chinese Historical Society of America Museum in San Francisco.
Stockton Street Tunnel (1914)
0.3 km
Explore the historic Stockton Street Tunnel, a charming connection between Union Square and Chinatown, rich in San Francisco's architectural heritage.
California Historical Landmark 81: Landing Place of Captain J. B. Montgomery
0.3 km
Discover the historic landing site of Captain J. B. Montgomery in San Francisco, a key location in the Gold Rush narrative at California Historical Landmark 81.
Unmissable attractions to see
Chinatown view point
0.0 km
Experience the vibrant culture and stunning views at the Chinatown Viewpoint, a must-visit destination in San Francisco's historic Chinatown.
All About Chinatown Tours
0.0 km
Explore the vibrant culture and history of San Francisco's Chinatown with expert-guided tours, uncovering hidden gems and culinary delights.
Sing Chong Building
0.0 km
Discover the rich history of the Sing Chong Building, a landmark in San Francisco's Chinatown showcasing cultural heritage and architectural beauty.
St Mary's Square
0.1 km
Experience the serene beauty of St. Mary's Square, a tranquil park in San Francisco's Chinatown, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.
Journey To The West Mural
0.1 km
Explore the captivating Journey to the West Mural in San Francisco's Chinatown, a vibrant celebration of Chinese folklore and artistry.
EscapeSF
0.2 km
Discover the thrill of escape rooms at EscapeSF, where adventure and mystery await in the heart of San Francisco's Chinatown.
California Street vista
0.2 km
Discover the stunning vistas of San Francisco at California Street Vista, where urban beauty meets breathtaking landscapes.
Terracotta Warriors Mural
0.2 km
Discover the rich history and artistry of the Terracotta Warriors Mural, a vibrant cultural gem in San Francisco's Chinatown.
Hang Ah Lanterns
0.2 km
Explore the vibrant artistry of Hang Ah Lanterns, a cultural gem in San Francisco's Chinatown, where history and beauty intertwine.
Dragon Gate Chinatown SF
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant culture and rich history at the Dragon Gate, the iconic entrance to San Francisco's bustling Chinatown.
Chinatown Landmark
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant culture and culinary delights at Chinatown Landmark in San Francisco, a must-visit tourist attraction filled with history and flavor.
Chinatown
0.2 km
Discover the rich culture, authentic cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere of San Francisco's historic Chinatown, a unique blend of tradition and modernity.
Tian Xia Wei Gong
0.2 km
Experience tranquility and culture at Tian Xia Wei Gong, a serene gem nestled in the heart of San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown.
Tin How Temple
0.2 km
Discover tranquility at Tin How Temple, the oldest Taoist temple in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown, and immerse yourself in rich cultural traditions.
Chinatown San Francisco
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant streets of Chinatown San Francisco, where culture, cuisine, and commerce converge in a colorful tapestry of experiences.
Essential places to dine
Mister Jiu's
0.1 km
Discover Mister Jiu's in Chinatown: Where traditional Chinese flavors meet modern culinary artistry in an unforgettable dining experience.
Café de la Presse
0.2 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Café de la Presse in San Francisco's Union Square - your cozy bistro for brunch, lunch, and delightful desserts.
Empress by Boon
0.3 km
Experience authentic Cantonese cuisine at Empress by Boon in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown—where tradition meets culinary excellence.
City View Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience authentic Cantonese cuisine at City View Restaurant in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown with stunning city views.
Bouche
0.3 km
Discover the essence of French fine dining at Bouche in San Francisco—where culinary artistry meets elegant ambiance.
E&O Kitchen and Bar
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia at E&O Kitchen and Bar in San Francisco's Union Square – where tradition meets innovation.
Begoni Bistro
0.4 km
Experience authentic Chinese cuisine at Begoni Bistro in San Francisco's historic Chinatown - a delightful culinary journey awaits!
Great Eastern Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience authentic Chinese cuisine at Great Eastern Restaurant in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown—home to exquisite dim sum and fresh seafood delights.
Z & Y Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience authentic Chinese flavors at Z & Y Restaurant in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown—delicious dishes await every food lover.
Roxanne Cafe
0.4 km
Discover delicious American comfort food at Roxanne Cafe in San Francisco's Union Square—where every meal is a delightful experience.
Sons & Daughters
0.4 km
Discover fine dining at Sons & Daughters in Nob Hill, San Francisco - where Californian cuisine meets elegance.
New Lun Ting Cafe
0.4 km
Discover New Lun Ting Cafe: A Hidden Gem in San Francisco's Chinatown Offering Authentic Chinese Cuisine at Affordable Prices.
Bund Shanghai Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience authentic Shanghainese cuisine in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown at Bund Shanghai Restaurant.
FUSION DUMPLING
0.4 km
Discover authentic flavors at Fusion Dumpling in San Francisco's Chinatown—your destination for exquisite dim sum, hot pot, and noodle dishes.
Trestle Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience the best of American and Italian cuisine at Trestle Restaurant in the heart of San Francisco's iconic Chinatown.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Canton Bazaar
0.1 km
Discover unique treasures at Canton Bazaar, a vibrant gift shop in San Francisco's Chinatown, perfect for authentic souvenirs and cultural finds.
Old Shanghai
0.1 km
Explore Old Shanghai in San Francisco's Chinatown for unique gifts and authentic decor that capture the essence of the exotic Orient.
Oriental Treasures San Francisco
0.1 km
Explore a treasure trove of Asian artifacts and unique gifts at Oriental Treasures in San Francisco's enchanting Chinatown.
China Station
0.2 km
Explore the authentic treasures of Chinatown at China Station, your go-to gift shop for traditional crafts and unique home goods.
Jing Ying Gift Shop inc
0.2 km
Explore Jing Ying Gift Shop in San Francisco's Chinatown for unique gifts and authentic souvenirs that capture the essence of Chinese culture.
Unique Variety
0.2 km
Explore Unique Variety in San Francisco's Chinatown for authentic souvenirs and cultural treasures that embody the city's vibrant spirit.
Fashion House & Gifts
0.2 km
Explore the vibrant treasures of Fashion House & Gifts in San Francisco's Chinatown—unique gifts and souvenirs that celebrate the city's culture.
Butterfly's Gift Shop Inc
0.2 km
Explore Butterfly's Gift Shop Inc in San Francisco's Chinatown for unique gifts and unforgettable souvenirs that reflect the city's vibrant culture.
Shangri La Gifts
0.2 km
Explore Shangri La Gifts in San Francisco's Chinatown for unique treasures and a taste of local craftsmanship that captures the city's vibrant culture.
Peking Bazaar
0.2 km
Explore the charm of Chinatown with unique gifts and authentic souvenirs at Peking Bazaar, a must-visit destination in San Francisco.
Yat On Gift Shop
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant Yat On Gift Shop in San Francisco's Chinatown for unique gifts and authentic Asian treasures that celebrate the city's rich cultural heritage.
Souvenir Shop
0.4 km
Discover unique treasures in Chinatown's Souvenir Shop, offering a blend of traditional and modern keepsakes for every traveler.
Up & Up Gift Shop
0.4 km
Explore Up & Up Gift Shop in San Francisco's Chinatown for unique gifts and souvenirs that embody the city's rich culture and charm.
DIOR San Francisco Post Street
0.5 km
Discover the elegance of DIOR San Francisco, where luxury women's fashion meets artistry in the heart of Union Square.
Maison Margiela San Francisco
0.5 km
Experience the cutting-edge of fashion at Maison Margiela San Francisco, where luxury meets artistic expression in an unforgettable shopping experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
718
0.0 km
Discover the unique flavors and vibrant atmosphere at 718 Lounge in San Francisco's historic Chinatown, where craft cocktails and Asian cuisine meet.
Moongate Lounge
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Moongate Lounge in San Francisco's Chinatown, where cocktails and Chinese cuisine blend seamlessly for a unique experience.
Harlan Records
0.3 km
Discover Harlan Records, the ultimate cocktail bar in San Francisco's Union Square, where exquisite drinks meet an unforgettable vinyl experience.
Rickhouse
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail culture of San Francisco at Rickhouse, where craft meets creativity in a chic bar ambiance.
Buddha Lounge
0.3 km
Discover the serene ambiance of Buddha Lounge in San Francisco's Chinatown, where eclectic decor meets a diverse drink selection.
CHI Lounge
0.3 km
Discover CHI Lounge in San Francisco's Chinatown for an unforgettable night of live music, dancing, and vibrant cocktails.
Tunnel Top Lounge and Bar
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Tunnel Top Lounge and Bar in San Francisco, combining art, cocktails, and a unique lounge experience in Union Square.
Li Po Cocktail Lounge
0.3 km
Discover the historic Li Po Cocktail Lounge in San Francisco's Chinatown, where exquisite cocktails and timeless charm await every visitor.
Lion's Den Lounge and Bar
0.3 km
Discover the pulse of San Francisco's nightlife at Lion's Den Lounge and Bar, where live music and DJ services create unforgettable evenings.
Last Drop Tavern
0.4 km
Discover Last Drop Tavern in San Francisco's Union Square, where delicious New American cuisine meets creative cocktails in a vibrant atmosphere.
Red's Place
0.4 km
Discover Red's Place in San Francisco's Chinatown - a cocktail bar with a welcoming vibe and innovative drinks to elevate your nightlife experience.
Comstock Saloon
0.5 km
Comstock Saloon: Where Historic Charm Meets Craft Cocktails in San Francisco's Chinatown.
Pacific Cocktail Haven
0.5 km
Discover San Francisco's premier cocktail experience at Pacific Cocktail Haven, where innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.
Mr Bing's
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail culture at Mr Bing's, a must-visit bar in the heart of San Francisco's Chinatown.
Iron Horse Cocktails
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and innovative cocktails at Iron Horse Cocktails in San Francisco's lively Union Square.
