Civic Center: The Heart of San Francisco
Explore Civic Center in San Francisco, a vibrant cultural hub filled with iconic landmarks, art institutions, and lively public events that showcase the city's rich heritage.
Civic Center in San Francisco is a vibrant cultural hub known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant public spaces. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks, art institutions, and enjoy a variety of events year-round.
A brief summary to Civic Center
- San Francisco, Civic Center, California, US
Local tips
- Check the Civic Center calendar for free events like concerts and festivals, which often take place in the plaza.
- Visit the Asian Art Museum on a Thursday evening for free admission and special programming.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture, especially at sunset when the buildings are beautifully lit.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll want to explore the area on foot to fully appreciate its sights.
- Try the nearby food trucks for a quick and delicious bite from various international cuisines.
Getting There
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Bus
From downtown Berkeley, walk to the nearest bus stop on Shattuck Avenue. Board the AC Transit Bus 72 or 88 heading towards San Francisco. Stay on the bus for approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. Get off at the Civic Center stop in San Francisco. After getting off, walk east on McAllister Street until you reach Civic Center Plaza.
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BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit)
Make your way to the Downtown Berkeley BART station located at 2160 Shattuck Ave. Purchase a ticket to Civic Center/UN Plaza station. Board a Richmond-bound train and travel for 20 minutes. When you arrive at Civic Center/UN Plaza, exit the station and walk east on McAllister Street to reach Civic Center Plaza.
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Walking
If you are located around the UC Berkeley campus, head towards Telegraph Avenue and walk south until you reach Bancroft Way. Take a left onto Bancroft Way and continue until you reach Shattuck Avenue. Turn right and walk down Shattuck until you reach the intersection with McAllister Street. Head east on McAllister for about 15 minutes until you reach Civic Center Plaza.
Discover more about Civic Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of Abraham Lincoln
0.2 km
Discover the inspiring Statue of Abraham Lincoln in San Francisco's Civic Center, a must-visit for history lovers and art enthusiasts alike.
San Francisco City Hall
0.2 km
Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of San Francisco City Hall, a stunning landmark in the heart of the city.
The Shortest Street in San Francisco
0.4 km
Explore the whimsical Ash Street, the shortest street in San Francisco, where quirky charm meets vibrant urban life in the Fillmore District.
Pioneer Monument
0.4 km
Explore the Pioneer Monument in San Francisco - a tribute to early California pioneers, adorned with intricate sculptures and rich history.
Film exchange
0.6 km
Explore the Film Exchange, a historical landmark in San Francisco's Tenderloin district, and uncover the city’s cinematic past.
United Nations Plaza Fountain
0.6 km
Discover tranquility at the United Nations Plaza Fountain in San Francisco, a vibrant cultural hub and a perfect spot for relaxation and reflection.
Rothschild House
0.7 km
Explore Rothschild House in San Francisco's Fillmore District, a historical gem showcasing the city's rich architectural heritage and captivating stories.
California Historical Landmark 454: Site of Woodward's Gardens
0.8 km
Explore the historic site of Woodward's Gardens in San Francisco's Mission District, where nature and history intertwine in a vibrant cultural experience.
Sarcophagus of Thomas Starr King
0.9 km
Discover the Sarcophagus of Thomas Starr King, a captivating historical landmark in San Francisco's Fillmore District, honoring a pivotal figure in American history.
The Painted Ladies
1.2 km
Discover the charm of The Painted Ladies, iconic Victorian homes offering stunning views of San Francisco's skyline and rich historical significance.
Victorian Home Walk
1.3 km
Explore the enchanting Victorian Home Walk in San Francisco, where history and architectural beauty come alive in a unique guided tour experience.
The San Francisco Mint
1.3 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of the San Francisco Mint, a historic landmark that embodies the spirit of the Gold Rush era.
Hayes St
1.3 km
Discover the vibrant ambiance of Hayes Street in San Francisco, a must-visit destination for culture, dining, and shopping enthusiasts.
Cable Car Turnaround Powell St.
1.3 km
Explore the historic Cable Car Turnaround at Powell Street, a symbol of San Francisco's rich transportation heritage and vibrant city life.
Bush Street Temple (Soto Mission)
1.4 km
Discover the historical and cultural significance of Bush Street Temple in San Francisco's Japantown, a serene site rich in Japanese Buddhist heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Davies Symphony Hall
0.1 km
Experience the architectural wonder and cultural richness of Davies Symphony Hall, the heart of San Francisco's vibrant music scene.
War Memorial Opera House
0.1 km
Explore the War Memorial Opera House, San Francisco's iconic venue for world-class opera and ballet performances in a stunning architectural masterpiece.
49-Mile Scenic Drive
0.2 km
Explore the stunning 49-Mile Scenic Drive in San Francisco, where iconic landmarks meet breathtaking coastal views for an unforgettable adventure.
Civic Center Plaza
0.3 km
Discover Civic Center Plaza, a cultural hub in San Francisco, surrounded by iconic architecture, vibrant events, and lush green spaces.
Sidewalk Food Tours of San Francisco
0.4 km
Discover the flavors of San Francisco with Sidewalk Food Tours, where every bite tells a story in the city's vibrant culinary scene.
Heart of the City Farmers' Market
0.4 km
Discover fresh produce, local flavors, and a vibrant community spirit at San Francisco's Heart of the City Farmers' Market, a culinary gem in the Civic Center.
Asian Art Museum
0.5 km
Explore the vast and intricate world of Asian art at the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco, where history and culture come alive.
Orpheum Theatre
0.5 km
Experience the enchanting Orpheum Theatre, a historic jewel of San Francisco's performing arts scene, offering unforgettable shows in a stunning architectural setting.
Saint Boniface Catholic Church
0.8 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Saint Boniface Catholic Church, a serene retreat in the heart of San Francisco's Tenderloin district.
Tenderloin Museum
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant history and cultural stories of San Francisco's Tenderloin district at the Tenderloin Museum.
Hayes Valley
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant arts and culinary scene of Hayes Valley, San Francisco - a dynamic neighborhood filled with unique shops, galleries, and restaurants.
Essential places to dine
Kiln
0.2 km
Discover Kiln: A premier fine dining destination in San Francisco offering innovative cuisine and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Absinthe Brasserie & Bar
0.3 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine and vibrant atmosphere at Absinthe Brasserie & Bar in San Francisco's Civic Center.
Nightbird
0.3 km
Experience exquisite Californian cuisine at Nightbird, San Francisco's premier fine dining destination known for its innovative dishes and elegant atmosphere.
Chez Maman West
0.3 km
Savor authentic French cuisine at Chez Maman West in Hayes Valley - where culinary passion meets inviting ambiance.
Monsieur Benjamin
0.3 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Monsieur Benjamin in Hayes Valley - where modern flavors meet timeless tradition.
a Mano
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at a Mano in Hayes Valley - where fresh ingredients meet culinary creativity.
Rich Table
0.4 km
Discover Rich Table: A top-rated New American restaurant in San Francisco’s Lower Haight serving innovative dishes crafted from local ingredients.
Suppenküche
0.6 km
Experience authentic German cuisine at Suppenküche in San Francisco's Hayes Valley - where every dish tells a story.
Petit Crenn
0.6 km
Discover the artful blend of tradition and innovation at Petit Crenn, a premier French restaurant in San Francisco's Hayes Valley.
Brenda's French Soul Food
0.6 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at Brenda's French Soul Food in San Francisco—where every bite tells a story of rich culinary tradition.
AsiaSF
0.6 km
Discover AsiaSF: where delicious Asian fusion cuisine meets spectacular cabaret performances in the heart of San Francisco.
Son and Garden
0.7 km
Discover Son and Garden: A delightful New American dining experience in San Francisco's Tenderloin with fresh flavors and seasonal menus.
1601 Bar & Kitchen
0.7 km
Experience authentic Sri Lankan cuisine at 1601 Bar & Kitchen - where tradition meets modern fine dining in San Francisco's SoMa district.
Birdsong
0.8 km
Discover Birdsong: A premier fine dining restaurant in San Francisco offering innovative American cuisine and an unforgettable culinary experience.
Californios
0.9 km
Experience innovative Mexican cuisine at Calfornios in San Francisco—where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
minimal
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish furniture, and exquisite jewelry at Minimal in San Francisco's Civic Center. A treasure for every taste!
New Horizons gift shop
0.5 km
Explore New Horizons Gift Shop for unique souvenirs and trendy accessories in the heart of San Francisco's SoMa district.
Reliquary
0.5 km
Explore Reliquary, a boutique in San Francisco's Hayes Valley offering vintage clothing and unique jewelry reflecting the city's artistic spirit.
Cha May Ching Museum Boutique
0.5 km
Discover unique Asian art and cultural gifts at Cha May Ching Museum Boutique in San Francisco's Civic Center.
Metier
0.5 km
Discover unique, artisan-crafted jewelry at Metier in the heart of Hayes Valley, San Francisco's chic shopping destination.
Polk market&gift shop
0.6 km
Explore Polk Market & Gift Shop for unique souvenirs and local essentials in the heart of San Francisco's vibrant Tenderloin district.
COVE
1.1 km
Discover unique gifts at COVE, a charming shop in San Francisco's Lower Haight, showcasing local artisans and eclectic treasures.
No Shop
1.2 km
Explore No Shop in San Francisco's Mission District for unique vintage finds and sustainable fashion at affordable prices.
Life
1.3 km
Explore Life, a boutique gift shop in Lower Haight, San Francisco, offering unique aromatherapy, jewelry, candles, and artisan treasures.
Urban Outfitters
1.4 km
Discover Urban Outfitters in San Francisco's Union Square, a trendy hub for fashion-forward clothing, unique home decor, and stylish accessories.
Gift Shop
1.5 km
Explore a delightful gift shop in Union Square, San Francisco, offering unique souvenirs and local treasures perfect for every traveler.
Cuyana
1.5 km
Explore Cuyana in San Francisco's Union Square: where elegance meets sustainability in women's fashion.
Cali Gifts & More
1.5 km
Explore the charm of Cali Gifts & More in San Francisco's Nob Hill, your go-to destination for unique souvenirs and local treasures.
Louis Vuitton San Francisco Union Square
1.6 km
Explore the luxury of Louis Vuitton in San Francisco's Union Square, where timeless elegance meets modern sophistication in leather goods.
Rare Device
1.6 km
Explore Rare Device in San Francisco for a unique gift shopping experience with local art and eclectic finds.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Smuggler's Cove
0.4 km
Discover the enchanting atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at Smuggler's Cove, San Francisco's premier cocktail bar and rum haven.
Sluts the wine bar
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant SoMa district with exquisite wines and a cozy atmosphere at Sluts the Wine Bar in San Francisco.
Dahlia SF
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of San Francisco at Dahlia SF, a bar known for its creative cocktails and lively atmosphere in the heart of the Mission District.
Bourbon & Branch
1.1 km
Discover the speakeasy charm of Bourbon & Branch, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a vibrant San Francisco atmosphere.
Rye Cocktail Bar
1.1 km
Discover Rye Cocktail Bar in San Francisco, a cocktail haven with expertly mixed drinks and a lively atmosphere perfect for any evening out.
Cityscape
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Cityscape, where stunning views and craft cocktails create an unforgettable bar experience in San Francisco.
Noc Noc
1.2 km
Discover Noc Noc, a vibrant bar in San Francisco's Lower Haight, offering creative cocktails and a unique atmosphere perfect for relaxing and socializing.
The Majestic Butterfly Lounge
1.2 km
Experience the art of mixology at The Majestic Butterfly Lounge, a stylish cocktail bar in San Francisco's Cathedral Hill, perfect for a vibrant night out.
Owl Tree
1.3 km
Discover Owl Tree, San Francisco's cocktail gem known for its cozy ambiance and innovative drinks perfect for any night out.
Johnny Foley's Irish House
1.4 km
Discover the heart of Ireland in San Francisco at Johnny Foley's Irish House, where lively music and delicious food create unforgettable moments.
ABV
1.4 km
Discover ABV in San Francisco: a vibrant bar and restaurant known for its craft cocktails and seasonal dishes, perfect for any culinary adventure.
Blackbird
1.4 km
Experience the best of San Francisco nightlife at Blackbird Bar, where craft cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere await.
Persona
1.5 km
Discover Persona, San Francisco's stylish cocktail bar offering innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Lower Nob Hill.
Clock Bar
1.5 km
Discover Clock Bar in Union Square: A chic lounge and restaurant offering exquisite cocktails and delectable bites in the heart of San Francisco.
Kozy Kar
1.6 km
Experience the unique charm of Kozy Kar, a vibrant bar in San Francisco's Polk Gulch, known for its water mattresses and friendly atmosphere.
