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Duboce Triangle in San Francisco: Concerts, Nightlife, and Other Fun Things to Do
by Jill Loeffler •
Duboce Triangle in San Francisco is a smaller, sub-district of the Castro. It's full of bars, restaurants, and two great live music venues. It also has some colorful artwork and lovely Victorians that you will not want to miss.
This small area runs along Market Street from Duboce Avenue to Castro Street. It then forms a triangle and ends where these two streets meet.
Read on for more details about what there is to see and do in this neighborhood.
Disclaimer: I receive a small commission from some of the links on this page.
Things to Do & See in the Duboce Triangle in San Francisco
1. Duboce Park
Opened in 1900, this park is a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Recently updated, this park has a basketball court, a dog play area that is very popular, and play structures for young kids.
The children's play area, restrooms, and parking are all accessible.
While you are in the area, check out the Scott Street Labyrinth near the park, as it is a very cool and relaxing way to spend a few minutes walking around and escaping the bustle of the city.
2. Swedish American Music Hall
This is a great place to grab a drink, listen to a band, and just have a great time overall. This main room holds up to 300 people, so you always have a great view of the musicians while being able to dance and enjoy the night.
The staff is known to be super friendly and the service is incredible. The interior is gorgeous and very classy. Make sure to check the schedule, as there are often lectures, readings, and other events going as well.
3. Cafe du Nord
This is in the basement of the Swedish American Music Hall. It is a smaller venue than the upstairs, but still pulls in top musicians and talent.
The space is beautifully decorated, and you'll feel like you have stepped back in time. It is known as one of the best speakeasies in San Francisco.
Note: The entrance to Café du Nord is two doors down on Market Street from the Swedish American Music Hall.
>> Find a schedule of upcoming performances at Cafe du Nord
4. Willkommen Beer Garden
This is the perfect brewery for all your German beer and culinary desires. They are known for having a large selection of brews, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and huge portions.
You will definitely want to stop by here for a meal when you are in the Duboce Triangle in San Francisco.
Something I truly love is that their indoor beer garden has tall maple trees and floor-to-ceiling windows, so you can just hang out and enjoy the sun at the same time.
In addition to their famous sausages, they also have vegetarian options if you don't eat meat.
You'll find Wilkommen open daily from 4 pm at 2198 Market Street. Happy hour is from 4 to 6 pm on weekdays, and brunch is served from 11:30 am on weekends.
>> More great breweries around SF
5. Duboce Park Cafe
Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this is the perfect place to choose from a wide variety of dishes and even bring your doggie if you have one with you.
This restaurant has one of the most diverse menus around, so you'll surely be able to find something that hits the spot. They also have gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.
If you are there on a warm day, check out their ice cream also. Since it is so close to Duboce Park, you could even order your meal and then walk over there to eat it.
The cafe is located at 2 Sanchez Street. It's a good one for early risers, as it's open from 7 am to 5 pm daily.
6. Canela Bistro & Wine Bar
Spain has come to San Francisco in this cute family-owned restaurant. As would be expected, they have tapas for you to enjoy. They also have other plates, such as portobello sliders, tempranillo braised beef, and octopus.
If you are vegetarian, you will find choices here, such as roasted seasonal vegetables and more. Last but not least, their wine and beer list is extensive and complements each dish perfectly.
They are located at 2272 Market Street and are open from 5 pm to 9:30 pm Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays).
>> More great wine bars around SF
7. Bikeway Mural behind Safeway
The Duboce Triangle in San Francisco isn't as well-known as other districts for murals and that is one of the reasons that this bikeway is such a wonderful surprise.
This 6000 square foot (almost 400 feet long!) mural is dedicated to all things cycling and is located behind the Safeway grocery store between Market and Church Streets.
The painting shows how bikes would cross the city, starting at the Pacific beach and then going all the way to the Bay. There is a bike lane and sidewalks beside it, so you can enjoy it all without getting in the way of traffic.
It is next to the J-Church and N-Judah trolley tracks, so it is easy to find and enjoy.
>> More places to find murals around SF
8. Historic Houses
Another one of the things I love about the Duboce Triangle in San Francisco are the lovely neighborhoods along Noe and Sanchez Streets. Both feature some colorful historic homes, which are fun to check out.
You will find beautiful Victorians and Edwardian-era homes on Noe between 15th and Duboce and on Sanchez between 14th and Duboce.
>> Additional places to check out our famous Painted Ladies
Popular SF Tours & Activities
How to Get Here
The easiest way to get to Duboce Triangle in San Francisco is by taking the Muni light rail. You can take the J, K, L, and M trains. The J will take you to an above-ground station at Church and Market. The other three stop at the underground Church Street Station.
You can also take the F Streetcar here. This is a bit slower but will allow you to watch the city go by as you travel to this neighborhood. It is also a great choice from Fisherman's Wharf as it originates in the heart of that district.
Things to See & Do Nearby
Castro: One of the most famous neighborhoods near the Duboce Triangle in San Francisco is the Castro. This district is known to be the center of LGBTQ life in San Francisco. I highly recommend going to the GLBT Museum to learn more about the continuing struggle for equal rights. Here, you'll also find some of the best restaurants, murals, shows, and nightlife. It is a must-visit for anyone coming to the City by the Bay. Visit my Castro page to learn more.
Mission: This district is known to be one of the most beautiful because of the diverse cultures, art, and people who call the Mission home. You'll find some of the city's best murals scattered throughout this neighborhood. It is also home to the gorgeous Mission San Francisco de Asis, Mission Dolores Park (which affords both gorgeous views of the bay and lots of sunshine), and loads of great Mexican and Latin restaurants. Learn more here.
Lower Haight: Home to some quaint Victorians, great bars, and lots of fun shopping, you will want to visit this lesser-known district when you are close to the Duboce Triangle in San Francisco. Some of the most famous bars in SF are right here, including the Noc Noc, Mad Dog in the Fog, and Toronado. There are also a handful of beautiful murals and lots of smaller, local places to shop. Find out more here.
Haight-Ashbury: This is where you can admire incredible views of SF from the top of Buena Vista Park, see gorgeous painted Victorian houses, and check out what was home to some of the most famous bands and hippie culture experiences in the city. You can also dine at lots of great restaurants and shop for everything from 60s attire to chic fashion. Find out more here.
Comments? Questions? Suggestions?
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