Columbarium in San Francisco: Pictures & Tips to Visit this Hidden Gem

The Columbarium in San Francisco is one of only three cemeteries within the city limits. It's the final resting place for the ashes of an estimated 30,000 people.

This gorgeous neoclassical building was once the centerpiece for a larger, 27-acre Odd Fellows Cemetery. It was built in 1898 and was one of the few structures to survive the 1906 earthquake.

It once housed a crematorium, which was destroyed when cremations were outlawed in San Francisco in 1910. In 1929, the rest of the cemetery was moved outside the SF city limits.

Though it was set to be demolished, this building and those buried inside were allowed to stay thanks to the Homestead Act.

However, the building was abandoned in 1934. With no one taking care of it, it fell into disrepair with pigeons and raccoons living under its dome. Finally, in 1980, it was bought and restored by the Neptune Society.

They did an amazing job of cleaning it up and restoring it to its former glory. Today, it's not only a beautiful place to visit, but a San Francisco Designated Landmark.

What You Will See When You Visit

The historic main building includes small niches where thousands have been laid to rest. They include the ashes of the deceased as well as displays that show their personalities.

Each one is unique and helps you get a feel for the person buried there. You will see everything from pictures with family and friends to small trinkets from vacations. Many also include small articles that tell about the person's hobbies, interests, or awards they won during their lifetime.

The urns, which also hold the ashes, are very unique. You will see everything from ornate jade pieces to cookie jars. They tell you even more about the life of the person that is laid to rest.

In addition to the colorful memorials, the building itself is beautiful. From floor to ceiling, you will find gorgeous architectural details and several amazing stained-glass windows.

One of my favorite details is the colorful dome. Stand in the middle of the building and look up. It's simply awe-inspiring.

During your visit, you are welcome to roam around the first floor on your own for as long as you'd like. The upper floors are restricted to family and friends or those that have made an appointment in advance.

Harvey Milk Memorial

Many people believe that the Columbarium in San Francisco is the final resting place for Harvey Milk. Since his death was so tragic and there was so much controversy around it at the time, they decided to not put his ashes here as a safety measure.

However, when you first enter the main building, you will see a small memorial with his name.

Other Notable Residents

In addition to the Harvey Milk memorial, the Columbarium houses many of the LGBT community who died during the 1980s AIDS epidemic. You'll see teddy bears with rainbow scarves in many niches.

Also interred here are the Folger family of Folgers Coffee; Jose Santana, musician and father of Carlos Santana; Chet Helms, father of the 1967 "Summer of Love," and more. 

Other Visiting Details

It might seem strange to visit the Columbarium in San Francisco. However, it's an amazing experience and is the perfect place for anyone who loves to head off the beaten path.

Free Tours

While you are free to walk around on your own, you can also make an appointment for a free, guided tour by Emmitt. He has been the caretaker for the Columbarium in San Francisco for decades and knows this place better than anyone.

He will give you a complete history of it as well as point out some of the most interesting characters buried here.

You can schedule your free individual or group tour by calling 415.771.0717.

Hours

The Columbarium in San Francisco is open to the public during the following hours:

• Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm

They close at 3 pm on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve. They are closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.

Directions

Address: 1 Loraine Court

The Columbarium in San Francisco stands at the end of a residential cul-de-sac in the Richmond District. It's easy to reach by bus or by car.

By Bus: The easiest bus to take to get here from downtown SF is the 38 Geary. Take it to the stop on Geary at Commonwealth Street. From here, cross Geary Avenue and walk south on Stanyan Street one block. Take a right on Anza and walk one block to Loraine Court. While you can see the Columbarium from the bus stop, you can only enter Loraine Court via Anza.

By Car: It's also easy to get here by taking Geary Boulevard to Stanyan Street. At Stanyan, turn left and drive one block to Anza. From there, take a right and drive one block to Loraine Court. Take a right at Loraine Court. It's one block to the entrance of the Columbarium and the official parking lot. You are free to park here at no charge.

Disclaimer: I receive a small commission from some of the links on this page.

Other Hidden Gems in San Francisco

City Hall: Another place that I highly recommend visiting is City Hall. While many people stop for pictures outside, you are also welcome to take a look inside. This is where you can see their gorgeous marble staircase, the inside of its famous golden dome, and a small history museum on its first floor. Click here for details.

Haas Lilienthal House: Step inside a historic Victorian during your visit to the Haas Lilienthal House. A visit here includes a guided tour of its first and second floors as well as a look around its small basement museum. Click here for pictures and additional details on visiting.

All Hidden Gems: SF is full of other fun hidden gems. They range from the antique arcade games at the Musée Mécanique in Fisherman's Wharf to one of the only remaining Octagon Houses still standing in SF. Click here for my entire list of hidden gems.

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