Walk down Castro Street, where the rhythm of life pulses in rainbow hues. This vibrant corridor is more than a neighborhood—it’s the heartbeat of LGBTQ+ history, art, and fearless self-expression, where every mural and storefront whispers a tale of courage and identity.

This legendary luxury hotel in downtown San Francisco seamlessly blends historic architecture with modern elegance. Enjoy exceptional service including a professional concierge, valet parking, and a state-of-the-art fitness center with a glass-enclosed heated pool. The beautifully decorated rooms offer in-room dining with stunning city views. The hotel features two award-winning restaurants with unique ambiance. Its prime location is steps away from Union Square, cable cars, and Chinatown, making it perfect for exploring the city. Whether for business or leisure, this hotel promises an unforgettable stay.
Everything you need to know about The Castro
The Castro Hotel is a top choice, located right in the heart of Castro Street and designed with LGBTQ+ travelers in mind. It features rainbow-themed rooms and a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates diversity. Just a 5-minute walk from the Castro Street landmark and the San Francisco LGBTQ+ History Museum, the hotel offers free local event guides and curated experiences. Guests enjoy easy access to iconic gay bars, cultural events, and the vibrant spirit of one of America's most inclusive neighborhoods.
Yes, Castro Street is highly accessible via San Francisco Muni Metro. Key stops include Castro Station (N Judah line) and 17th Street/Castro Station (T Third Street line), both within a 5-minute walk. Multiple bus lines such as 28, 30, and 43 also serve the area, linking it to major attractions across the city. From SFO Airport, take the BART to Powell Street Station, then transfer to Muni for a convenient 30-minute journey. The neighborhood features wide sidewalks and bike lanes, making walking and cycling ideal for exploring the vibrant district.
Castro Street is the epicenter of San Francisco’s LGBTQ+ culture. Must-visit experiences include the San Francisco LGBTQ+ History Museum, which chronicles the city’s civil rights journey. Dine at Cafe Cofa or Milk Bar for artistic ambiance and local flavor. Stroll along the Castro Street landmark at dusk to enjoy neon lights and street performances. Don’t miss the annual Pride Parade in June, drawing hundreds of thousands for a celebration of diversity and freedom. Independent bookstores, art galleries, and boutique shops throughout the district reflect a bold, creative, and countercultural spirit.
Try Roxie's Café, a hidden gem tucked in a side alley, offering LGBTQ+ themed café fare with standout artisan pastries and creative brunch dishes like the colorful "Rainbow Benedict". For authentic Mexican flavors, visit El Tejano, known for its lively atmosphere and live music. For a refined dining experience, The Ivy Room blends modern American cuisine with elegant décor, overlooking Castro Street. All are within walking distance, creating an intimate, diverse, and welcoming culinary scene perfect for every traveler.
Castro Hotel is a top choice, located in the heart of Castro Street with historic charm and modern amenities. The hotel features original 1906 earthquake-era architecture, restored with LGBTQ+ art installations, including rainbow-colored glass windows and vibrant murals. It's just a 5-minute walk from Castro Street shops and Harvey Milk Plaza, offering easy access to LGBTQ+ cultural landmarks. Multiple bus lines (e.g., 23, 28) stop nearby, making it ideal for exploring San Francisco’s most inclusive neighborhood.
Yes, Castro Street is highly accessible. Multiple Muni bus lines (23, 28, 30) run directly along the street, connecting to major destinations like Union Square, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the Golden Gate Bridge. A short 10-minute ride from Duboce Transit Center station allows transfers to the Embarcadero and Chinatown via Muni Metro. The area is also pedestrian- and bike-friendly—riding along Market Street southward leads quickly to City Hall and shopping districts, making it an ideal base for exploring downtown San Francisco.
Castro Street is the epicenter of San Francisco’s LGBTQ+ culture. Attend the annual Folsom Street Fair in summer, where the entire district transforms into a vibrant rainbow celebration. Join a historic LGBTQ+ walking tour to learn about the civil rights movement since the 1970s. Local cafes and bars like Milk Bar host live music and poetry readings. Don’t miss the Castro Theatre, which regularly screens classic films and indie productions—perfect for soaking in the area’s rich artistic heritage.
The Rainbow Flag Sculpture at the intersection of Castro and Market Streets is a must-photograph landmark. Harvey Milk Plaza features a memorial monument and colorful mosaic flooring, framed by striking red and gold public art. The Castro Theatre, with its 1920s architectural style and glowing marquee, creates dramatic nighttime shots. Even storefronts along the street often display rainbow motifs and LGBTQ+ symbols—ideal for candid, story-rich street photography.
Try tapas at Cafe Florencia, especially their ham and tomato croquettes and garlic shrimp. Bartolotta Ristorante is renowned for handmade Italian pastas—don’t miss their truffle cream fettuccine. For fusion cuisine, visit Pier 24, offering creative dishes like teriyaki salmon bowls and Korean-style spicy fried chicken. All restaurants are within walking distance, many with outdoor seating perfect for a relaxed evening meal.
Castro Street maintains strong safety standards with 24/7 surveillance cameras, well-lit sidewalks, and regular police patrols—especially during Pride Month events. Emergency call boxes are installed along the street, connected to city emergency services. Visitors are advised to stay in well-traveled areas, avoid secluded alleys, and keep belongings secure during peak times. The neighborhood remains welcoming and safe, but standard precautions apply.
See what other travelers say about The Castro

Staying at the Palace Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel in San Francisco was an absolute highlight of my trip. The location couldn't be better—just a short walk from Union Square, making it easy to explore shopping, dining, and local attractions. The hotel exudes old-world elegance with its grand European palace-inspired design, creating a truly luxurious atmosphere from the moment you step inside. The rooms are spacious, beautifully furnished, and incredibly comfortable, with high-quality bedding that made for a restful night's sleep. Staff were attentive and friendly without being overbearing, always ready to help. It’s clear this hotel takes pride in delivering exceptional service and attention to detail. For anyone visiting San Francisco, this is not just a place to stay—it’s an experience worth every penny.

The Lombard Inn is a solid choice if you're looking for a no-frills stay in San Francisco. The rooms are clean and the beds are surprisingly comfortable—perfect for a good night's rest. While the decor and furnishings feel a bit dated, they’re still functional and adequately maintained. One thing worth mentioning is that the hallways had a slight musty odor, likely due to the carpets needing a deep clean. That said, it’s an easy fix and doesn’t detract much from the overall experience. I’d recommend this hotel for travelers who prioritize comfort and convenience over modern design. It’s a reliable option with great value, especially if you're on a budget.

We stayed in Glasgow for a few days and stopped by this hotel for breakfast—had no expectations going in, but was pleasantly surprised. The menu options were somewhat limited, but the warm welcome and excellent service from Thomas made all the difference. He went above and beyond to make our morning special. It’s a hidden gem with a welcoming vibe, and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone passing through.

On Friday, April 21st at 10:15 AM, a guest from another building at the hotel climbed over the fence between units 179 and 173, entered our private driveway area, then climbed over our fence and left toward Wiese Street, heading toward 16th Street. We immediately called 911. The situation was alarming and unsettling. While police responded promptly, the incident raised serious concerns about property security and safety protocols. It's important to note that making assumptions based on someone's background is not only inappropriate but also harmful. As guests, we expect the hotel to maintain a secure environment for all. We hope management will take immediate action to improve fencing, surveillance, and overall safety measures to prevent future incidents.
Explore more amazing destinations