Fun Things to Do in the Mission District of San Francisco

Fun Things to Do in the Mission District of San Francisco
Originally named for the old Spanish mission in the center of the district, the Mission District of San Francisco has come to represent the artistic community of the city with musicians, artists, writers and photographers calling this area home. It is also a great place for those who enjoy nature and self-expression with its parks and historic sites.

Mission Dolores Tour

Mission San Francisco de Asis, also known as Mission Dolores, is the oldest building in San Francisco still standing. Established by Father Serra as part of the chain of missions stretching down the coast of California, Mission Dolores has the distinction of being the only one of the original 21 missions still intact. One-hour guided tours of the mission and cemetery next door are given regularly so that you can see all the treasures and famous artwork held within the mission. The cemetery is the final resting place of many notable California figures including Lieutenant Moraga, the first commander of the Presidio, and Luis Antonio Arguello, the first Mexican governor of the territory, with some graves dating back as far as 1830. A four-week notice is needed to accommodate your request for a tour of the mission.

Mission Dolores Tour
3321 16th St.
San Francisco, CA 94114
(415) 621-8203
missiondolores.ypguides.net/

Mission Dolores Park

Originally part of the land owned by the Ohlone Indians, it became part of Yerba Buena as the Spanish settlers began moving into the area. Mission Dolores Park is a 13-acre expanse of green fields, trees and recreational activities, such as walking trails, swimming, fishing and more, located in the center of San Francisco's Mission District. It has also become a center for artistic activity and inspiration with musicians and artists seen developing their abilities in the park each day. The park has also been used for everything from political rallies to festivals and celebrations, with the annual Cinco de Mayo festivities the most prominent.

Mission Dolores Park
Church and 18th St.
San Francisco, CA 94108
(415) 551-3660
sfnpc.org/doloresparkhistory

Mission Cliffs Climbing and Fitness

Climb 50-foot rock walls and maneuver rocky terrain when you visit the Mission Cliffs Climbing and Fitness center. The rock walls are designed so that anybody from a novice to an expert climber can enjoy the adventure and practice her climbing skills. The center also has a yoga studio and several cardio machines as well as fitness programs to help you build your endurance and strength. The Mission Cliffs center provides one of the highest man-made climbing adventures available and several climbing instructors are on hand to help you learn the skills you need to be a better climber.

Mission Cliffs Climbing and Fitness
2295 Harrison St.
San Francisco, CA 94110
(415) 550-0515
touchstoneclimbing.com/mc.html

Article Written By Carl Pruit

Carl Pruit has been a freelance writer since 2005, specializing in service journalism and travel. His work has appeared on various websites. Born and raised in California, Pruit attended Contra Costa Community College in San Pablo, Calif. and received an associate degree in the administration of justice.

Write for Trails.com
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