Mission District food and history Walking Tour: Small group

San Francisco, US
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (2 reviews)

Highlights

  • Explore the food and history of the Mission
  • Visit the oldest church in San Francisco
  • Try delicious Oaxaca Mexican food
  • Admire the vibrant and bustling Mission Street
  • Marvel at the extensive collection of murals in Balmy Alley

Meeting Point

The tour starts from 16th St. Mission San Francisco de Assis, San Francisco, CA 94114, USA

Meeting point

3321 16th St, San Francisco, CA 94114 , United States

End point

End Point

The tour ends at 50 Balmy St., San Francisco, CA94110

Meeting point

50 Balmy St, San Francisco, CA 94110 , United States

End point

What to expect

1

Mission Dolores

The tour starts at Mission San Francisco de Asis (also known as Mission Dolores), one of the oldest buildings in San Francisco. This chapel is home to exclusive religious art, and we will explore the rich history. You will be able to enjoy its gardens and explore the only cemetery within the city limits.

Duration 30 minutes
2

Mission Dolores Park

Just two blocks away you will find Mission Dolores Park. Formerly a Jewish Cemetery. Now one of the most popular and crowded parks in San Francisco. Spring and Summer months see the grass-lined with blankets as the locals enjoy community and sport. Moving through the park, we will pass Father Hidalgo’s statute making our way to see the “Golden Fire Hydrant”. This fire hydrant located at Church St. & 20th was the only functioning hydrant during the 1906 earthquake & fire.

Duration 30 minutes
3

Mission District

We depart Mission Dolores Park to explore the surrounding neighborhoods where you will find extraordinary street art. You will enjoy the hidden wonders inside the Mission as well as the Mission Community pool, Bnai David’s Synagogue, and the Women’s building which hosts one of the most famous murals in San Francisco. Our next stop will be at Café de Olla in the heart of the Mission. Café de Olla Restaurant makes everything from scratch, honoring the Oaxacan style cuisine where you will be tempted to taste typical Mexican dishes such as Quesadillas, Tamales, Tlayudas, and Tortillas, along with typical beverages such as Agua Fresca, Ice Caffe da Olla, and many other options. Cheer up and taste the “Chapulines”!!!

Duration 60 minutes
4

Mission St

After enjoying the good meal, we continue our exploration of Mission Street. This vibrant and bustling community, full of traditional shops and old theaters. The pace of the locals conducting daily commerce is exciting, everywhere you look the unique architecture presents itself. Classic Victorian-style homes throughout the district we will examine some of the most popular on Lexington St & San Carlos St., different architecture styles and cultures in only a few blocks!

Duration 60 minutes
5

Balmy Alley Murals

Finally, you will arrive at the most popular area, 24th Street that connects Mission Street with Potrero Street. Along this 8-block stretch, you will be faced with so many tantalizing choices; tacos at La Taqueria or rather pick up some pastry at La Reina Bakery or some coffee at the original Philz Coffee shop. Before the end of this awesome trip, our tour guide will show you the amazing Balmy Alley. On this famous Mission District Street, you will be amazed by an extensive collection of murals. Most of them are an expression of outrage over human rights violations and political abuses in Central America.

Duration 30 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    Please note this is a walking tour, we kindly advise you to use comfortable clothes and shoes and be ready for some walking.
Provided by Gray Line San Francisco

What our experts say

  • icon
    Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
  • icon
    Try the chapulines at Café de Olla!
  • icon
    Visit nearby Mission Dolores Park.
  • icon
    Check out the murals on Balmy Alley.
  • icon
    Explore local shops along Mission Street.

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