The Fillmore: San Francisco's Iconic Music Venue
Experience live music history at The Fillmore, San Francisco's iconic venue that launched rock legends and continues to host diverse acts.
The Fillmore, located at 1805 Geary Blvd in San Francisco, stands as a monument to the city's rich musical history. Constructed in 1912, the building initially served as the Majestic Hall and Academy of Dancing, hosting social gatherings and masquerade balls. Over the years, it transformed into the Ambassador Dance Hall and later a roller rink, before becoming The Fillmore Auditorium in 1954. Charles Sullivan, a prominent African-American businessman, renamed the venue and started booking bands, notably being the first to welcome Black attendees. The Fillmore's golden era began in the mid-1960s when Bill Graham took over as a concert promoter. It quickly became the epicenter of the burgeoning rock and psychedelic music scene, launching the careers of legendary bands such as the Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane, and Big Brother and the Holding Company. The Fillmore was also known as the "Harlem of the West" in the 1940s and 1950s, attracting leading jazz performers like Louis Armstrong, John Coltrane, and Ella Fitzgerald. The Fillmore was a place where racial barriers were broken down, as people from all backgrounds came together to appreciate the music. After a period of closure, The Fillmore reopened in 1994 and has since regained its status as a premier San Francisco music venue. Operated by Live Nation since 2007, it hosts a wide array of musical genres and continues to be a vital part of the city's cultural landscape. With a capacity of 1,315 guests for standard shows, the venue offers an intimate setting to experience live music. The Fillmore is not just a concert hall; it's a living piece of San Francisco history, embodying the spirit of innovation, diversity, and artistic expression.
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a good spot, as The Fillmore is a general admission standing ballroom with limited seating.
- Check the venue's website for upcoming events and the most up-to-date show schedule.
- Utilize public transportation or ride-sharing services, as parking in the immediate area can be challenging.
- Be aware of the venue's bag policy: bags up to 12” x 6” x 12” are allowed.
A brief summary to The Fillmore
- 1805 Geary Blvd, San Francisco, Fillmore District, California, 94115, US
- +1415-346-3000
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
The Fillmore is accessible via several public transportation options. From downtown San Francisco, take the 38 or 38R bus lines to the Geary Blvd & Fillmore St stop, which is a short walk from the venue. Alternatively, the 22-Fillmore bus also stops nearby. A single ride on Muni costs $3.00, or $2.85 if using a Clipper card or the MuniMobile app. A day pass for unlimited rides on Muni buses, trains, and historic streetcars is available for $5.70 via the MuniMobile app.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout San Francisco. A taxi ride from Union Square to The Fillmore typically costs between $15 and $25, depending on traffic. Ride-sharing services may have variable pricing based on demand. Taxi fares in San Francisco start at $4.15 for the first one-fifth of a mile, with an additional $0.65 for each subsequent one-fifth of a mile. There is also a charge of $0.65 for each minute of waiting or traffic time delay.
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Walking
If you are already in the Fillmore District or nearby neighborhoods like Japantown or Pacific Heights, walking to The Fillmore is a viable option. From the intersection of Fillmore and Geary, the venue is easily visible. Be mindful of pedestrian safety and street crossings. Walking is free.
