How to Move through The Mission

Follow this tried-and-true path to the most brilliant art, food and shopping in San Francisco’s hip district.

by Maryann Jones Thompson

There’s nothing like a stroll through The Mission. From vibrant murals and foods to the hum of locals and Muni buses, this district is where San Francisco was born!

And when a break from the fog is required, locals know to head to The Mission for The City’s sunniest skies.

After decades of guiding friends and family around the best of San Francisco, here’s my tried-and-true instructions for families who want to see the best of one of San Francisco’s most colorful districts:

Start with a Mission-style burrito at La Taqueria. Yes, this must be done 😉

Stroll 24th & Balmy Alley for the murals and shops

Pop into St. Francis Fountain for a pic or a malted or La Palma for some fresh chips & salsa for later

Wander north on Mission for a more “original” Mission then cut over on 22nd to continue north on Valencia for the “gentrified” Mission

Go west on 20th to Dolores Park for the views and playground
Hit Bi-Rite Creamery for ice cream on 18th at Dolores
End 2 blocks up Dolores at Mission Dolores, the Spanish settlement where the City by the Bay officially began in 1776. Pay the admission so you can see the graveyard where Hitchcock’s Vertigo’s scenes were filmed.

Maryann Jones Thompson – November 2020

ROAM Founder & Editor

After a thousand years in publishing as a business journalist, ghostwriter, content strategist and market researcher, Maryann brings her experience traveling as a backpacker, businessperson, expat and mom to writing and editing for ROAM.