History, art, and culture are alive and well in the Civic Center of
San Francisco. This cultural hub features a treasure trove of government buildings, museums, and music halls, all proudly boasting the Bay Area's grandeur and history, despite how modern the city has become. From the opulent City Hall to the breathtaking Civic Center Plaza, you'd sooner think you were whisked away to a major European city here. It's no wonder so many people work, stay, and visit the place. Whether you're a local or a tourist, there's no denying that the Civic Center inspires a kind of fascination that no other neighborhood could ever get.
Where is the Civic Center in San Francisco?
As the seat of government power in the Bay Area, the Civic Center lies at the heart of the city. Not only is it one of
San Francisco's central neighborhoods, but it's also surrounded by many of the city's most popular areas. No less than Nob Hill borders it to its north, Union Square lies directly to its northeast, and the Bayside Village is to its far east. The iconic Mission District also borders the Civic Center to its south, while the Hayes Valley is to its west, and Japantown is to its northwest. Who wouldn't want to stay here with such prominent districts nearby?
Is it Safe in San Francisco’s Civic Center?
The answer to this is a little bit complicated. Generally speaking, yes, the Civic Center is a fairly safe neighborhood in San Francisco. But at the same time, the district is notorious as one of the sketchier parts of town. How can one place be both? Well, it depends on the time. During the day, the Civic Center is lively enough that there's little to no danger lurking at every corner. Unfortunately, this takes a darker turn at night. The Civic Center may not have the highest
crime rates in San Francisco, but let's just say that some parts are worth avoiding after dark.
What's The Vibe in San Francisco’s Civic Center?
San Francisco’s Civic Center is unique in that it's both peaceful and lively at the same time. From the opulent City Hall to its many grand museums, the area is the quintessential tourist attraction in the Bay Area. You could even say that it's the most tourist-friendly part of the city, right up there with the likes of The Castro, Haight-Ashbury, and the nearby Mission District. But some parts are also peaceful since there are also government buildings here, which require some silence when people are working, hopefully making the city better day by day.
Is it Expensive in San Francisco’s Civic Center?
Expensive might be a bit much, but San Francisco’s Civic Center is definitely pricey. Considering that the
living costs in San Francisco are generally high, it's no surprise that its main seat of government power isn't cheap. At the same time, however, the Civic Center is far from the most expensive part of town. The average rent here, for instance, is only $3,500.00 per month, slightly higher than the city-wide average, which is $3,400.00 per month. It's still high in the grand scheme of things, but it's only par for the course in the Bay Area.
What to See in San Francisco’s Civic Center
Right off the bat, you can't miss the famously grand San Francisco City Hall. Not only is it the centerpiece of the Civic Center, but it's also among the most beautiful city halls in the US. The Asian Art Museum is within walking distance and is worth checking out, too, especially its extensive collection of artworks, antiques, and more from the Eastern Hemisphere. It's arguably the best gallery in the city! And while you're still within the vicinity, don't miss out on the Civic Center's many music halls and grand theaters, including the War Memorial Opera House, the Orpheum Theatre, and the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium.
What to Do in San Francisco’s Civic Center
The Civic Center is the best place to let out your inner tourist, even if you've lived here or it's been years since you
moved to San Francisco. Despite how local you've become over the years, there's no denying that the district's otherworldly opulence, historic charm, and unique grandeur never fail to fascinate. You won't ever get tired of seeing the San Francisco City Hall, despite how many times you pass it by day to day. There's always something new to learn in the beloved Asian Art Museum, especially its newest exhibitions. And the Civic Center's monument theaters always provide high culture in this increasingly modern metropolis.
The Best Restaurants in San Francisco’s Civic Center
It may not look like it, but San Francisco's Civic Center is as much of a foodie hotspot as the rest of the city. They don't regard the city as America's food capital (or at least, among the ones in the running) for nothing! Even the Civic Center boasts some of the best places to eat in the Bay Area! They include Kiln on Fell Street, one of
San Francisco's best Michelin-starred restaurants, and Nojo Ramen Tavern on Franklin Street, which easily rivals the more authentic ramen spots in Japantown. Overall, the eateries here are not to be overlooked!
Don’t miss any or all of the Civic Center’s hottest spots, especially:
- Kiln on Fell Street
- Nojo Ramen Tavern on Franklin Street
- Peacock Pansy on Fulton Street
- Rich Table on Gough Street
- Dopio Zero San Francisco on Hayes Street
- Sam's American Eatery on Market Street
- Zuni Café on Market Street
- Chao Pescao on McAllister Street
- RT Rotisserie on Oak Street
- Uccello Lounge on Van Ness Avenue
What to Know About Renting in San Francisco’s Civic Center
As mentioned previously, rent in San Francisco’s Civic Center is high, but not much higher compared to the rest of the city. The average rent here is about $3,500.00 per month, only slighter higher than the average $3,400.00 per month in all of San Francisco. Though this is fairly par for the course, this price in and of itself is notably high for American in general. $3,000.00 per month is already way above average in other big cities in the US. This only goes to show that
renting a luxury apartment in San Francisco is truly expensive, no matter where you decide to settle down.
Discover San Francisco’s extensive history and fascinating culture in the Civic Center. More than just the main government hub of the Bay Area, the district offers high art, culture, and more in this bustling metropolis.
