family
friends

Oldest surviving building in San Francisco with historic significance.

Founded in 1776, Mission Dolores offers an unforgettable journey through California's Spanish colonial past. Walk through the serene cemetery where San Francisco's first residents rest, admire the beautifully preserved chapel, and discover why this sacred site remains one of the city's most authentic historic experiences.

Mission Dolores isn't just a historic site - it's where San Francisco began. More intimate than Alcatraz and more authentic than Fisherman's Wharf, this hidden gem rewards visitors with profound connections to the city's complex origins.


Why Visit Mission Dolores?


 Oldest building in SF (247+ years of history)

 Appeared in Hitchcock's "Vertigo" (famous movie location)

 Peaceful oasis from bustling city streets

 Active Catholic parish with weekly masses

Cultural crossroads of Spanish and Native Ohlone heritage.



What to Expect


  • Original adobe chapel from 1791
  • Historic cemetery with elaborate Victorian monuments
  • Contrasting modern basilica next door
  • Small but fascinating museum with artifacts
  • Gift shop selling unique souvenirs.



Top Experiences


 Attend Sunday mass in California's oldest church

 See the Ohlone mural depicting native life

 Photograph the iconic white facade

 Visit the graves of SF's first families

 Find the "Vertigo" filming locations.



Pro Tips for Visitors


✔ Best time to visit: Weekday mornings (less crowded)

✔ Photography rules: No photos inside chapel

✔ Combine with: The Castro District (5-min walk)

✔ Don't miss: The memorial to Mission's first Native converts

✔ Dress code: Shoulders covered (active place of worship)



How to Get There


 Address: 3321 16th St, SF, CA 94114

 Public Transit:

  • Muni Metro: J-Church line to 16th St
  • Buses: 22, 33, 14, 49

 Driving:

  • Limited street parking (metered)
  • Nearest garage: 15th & Hoff

 Walking:

  • 12 mins from Castro Station
  • 20 mins from Mission District.



Visitor Essentials


 Hours: 9am-4pm daily (last entry 3:30pm)

 Admission: $7 adults, $5 seniors/students

 Visit duration: 45-60 minutes

 Accessibility: Partial (uneven surfaces in cemetery)


Things to Know about Mission Dolores
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
$10-15
1 hour
Important Tips

Includes a small museum and gardens.

Address

3321 16th St, San Francisco, CA 94114Visit

Exploring

California's Beauty


Ferry Building Marketplace image

Ferry Building Marketplace, California

Step into the historic Ferry Building Marketplace, a food lover’s paradise on San Francisco’s waterfront. From artisanal cheeses and fresh oysters to gourmet...

Coit Tower image

Coit Tower, California

Rising from Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower offers jaw-dropping 360° views of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Alcatraz. This 1933 Art...

San Francisco Cable Car Museum image

San Francisco Cable Car Museum, California

Step back in time at the San Francisco Cable Car Museum, where history, engineering, and charm collide! Discover the fascinating mechanics behind the...

The Beat Museum image

The Beat Museum, California

Step into the rebellious world of the Beat Generation at The Beat Museum, where Jack Kerouac's typewriter, Allen Ginsberg's poetry, and the...

San Francisco Botanical Garden image

San Francisco Botanical Garden, California

Step into a living paradise at San Francisco Botanical Garden! Wander through 55 acres of global flora, from towering redwoods to exotic...

Stern Grove image

Stern Grove, California

"Stern Grove concert schedule", "San Francisco redwood park", "Best picnic spots Bay Area"

Perfect For: Music lovers, nature seekers, and anyone craving an authentic local SF experience beyond Fisherman's Wharf!

Local Secret: The grove's...

Golden Gate Park image

Golden Gate Park, California

Escape to Golden Gate Park, San Francisco's 1,017-acre urban oasis! Wander through lush gardens, explore world-class museums, and paddle across serene lakes—all in...

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) image

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA), California

Discover a world of modern masterpieces at SFMOMA! From Warhol to Kahlo, this iconic museum dazzles with cutting-edge art, immersive exhibits, and...

Mission Dolores image

Mission Dolores, California

Founded in 1776, Mission Dolores offers an unforgettable journey through California's Spanish colonial past. Walk through the serene cemetery where San Francisco's...

Fisherman's Wharf image

Fisherman's Wharf, California

Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco's iconic waterfront district! Feast on fresh Dungeness crab, watch playful sea lions...

Latest Blogs


Important Links

  • Destinations
  • About Us
  • Blogs

Become A Member

Join the HopDays
community of travelers

© 2024 HopDays. All rights reserved. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission.

Important Links

  • Destinations
  • About Us
  • Blogs

Become A Member

Join the HopDays community of travelers

© 2024 HopDays. All rights reserved. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission.