The Saloon
The Saloon: A San Francisco Gem of Live Blues and Spirits
Unwind at The Saloon: San Francisco's Historic Bar
Discover The Saloon in San Francisco's North Beach, a historic bar with live blues, a vibrant atmosphere, and a rich musical legacy.
The Saloon, nestled in the vibrant North Beach neighborhood of San Francisco, is one of the city’s oldest bars, offering a unique blend of rich history and lively atmosphere. Famous for its blues music, it promises an unforgettable night out.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to The Saloon
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
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
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Getting There
Bus
From downtown Berkeley, walk to the nearest bus stop on Shattuck Avenue. Take the AC Transit Bus 1 towards San Francisco. Stay on the bus for approximately 30 minutes. Get off the bus at the stop on California St & Grant Ave. From there, walk south on Grant Ave for about 5 minutes until you reach The Saloon at 1232 Grant Ave.
BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit)
Head to the nearest BART station, which is Downtown Berkeley Station. Take a train towards San Francisco/Daly City. After about 20 minutes, get off at the Montgomery St. Station. Exit the station and walk north on Montgomery St, then turn left on California St. Walk for about 5 minutes until you reach Grant Ave, and then turn right. The Saloon will be on your left at 1232 Grant Ave.
Bicycle
If you have a bicycle, you can ride from Berkeley to San Francisco via the bike path. Start on the Berkeley Marina bike path, which leads you towards the Golden Gate Field area. Continue on the path, which will take you to the Bay Bridge Trail. Cross the bridge and follow signs towards the Embarcadero. Once you reach the Embarcadero, head north until you reach California St. Turn left and ride for a few minutes until you reach Grant Ave. The Saloon is at 1232 Grant Ave, just a short ride from there.
Walking
If you prefer walking, it will take about 1.5 to 2 hours. Start at the center of Berkeley and head south on Shattuck Ave. Continue straight until you reach the Bay Bridge, where you can walk along the waterfront. Follow the Embarcadero north until you reach California St. From there, turn left and walk towards Grant Ave. The Saloon is located at 1232 Grant Ave, which is a short walk from California St.
Local tips
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Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially on weekends when live music draws in large crowds.
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Try the local beers on tap for a taste of San Francisco's craft brewing scene.
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Check the schedule for live performances to catch your favorite blues artists.
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Dress casually; the atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming to all.
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Engage with the bartenders; they often have great stories and recommendations.
Discover more about The Saloon
Step into The Saloon, an iconic bar in the heart of San Francisco's North Beach neighborhood, where history and nightlife converge. Established in 1861, The Saloon holds the title of the city's oldest bar, and its rustic charm is palpable as soon as you walk through the door. The wooden bar, vintage decor, and dim lighting create an inviting ambiance perfect for both locals and tourists looking to experience the essence of San Francisco's nightlife. Renowned for its live blues music, The Saloon features performances from talented musicians that echo the bar's rich musical heritage. Patrons can enjoy a variety of drinks, from classic cocktails to a selection of local beers, all while soaking in the lively atmosphere that comes alive after dark. The Saloon is not just a bar; it’s a cultural experience, giving visitors a taste of San Francisco's vibrant history through its walls that have witnessed countless stories over the decades. Whether you're looking to relax with friends or dance the night away to soulful tunes, The Saloon promises a memorable outing, encapsulating the spirit of North Beach in every sip and song. Don't miss the chance to make lasting memories in this historic venue, where every visit feels like a step back in time.
A brief summary to The Saloon
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