✨ Step Back in Time: A Must-Do Day Trip to Mission Dolores & San Francisco’s Historic Heart! ✨

#springitinerary #### **Why This Is a Must-Visit:** ✅ **Oldest Standing Building in SF** – Mission San Francisco de Asís (founded 1776) is a living piece of California’s Spanish colonial past. ✅ **Incredible Architecture & Art** – From the serene chapel to vibrant murals in Balmy Alley, history and culture collide here. ✅ **Foodie Paradise** – Home to legendary burritos, artisanal chocolate, and the *best* ice cream in the city. ✅ **Iconic Views** – Mission Dolores Park offers one of SF’s most Instagrammable skyline backdrops. ✅ **Vibrant Latino Culture** – The Mission District pulses with art, music, and community spirit. #### **Morning: Mission Dolores & Basilica** **9:30 AM – Arrive at Mission Dolores Basilica** 📍 *3321 16th St, San Francisco, CA* - Start at the **Mission San Francisco de Asís** (Mission Dolores), the oldest surviving structure in SF (founded in 1776). - Tour the **mission chapel**, cemetery, and museum ($7-10 admission). - Don’t miss the **beautiful stained glass** and the small cemetery where early settlers and Ohlone people are buried. **10:30 AM – Walk to Mission Dolores Park** (5 min walk) 📍 *Dolores St & 19th St* - Stroll through this iconic park with **panoramic views of downtown SF**. - Grab a coffee at **Réveille Coffee Co.** (4076 18th St) or **Dandelion Chocolate** (740 Valencia St). --- #### **Midday: Mission District Exploration & Lunch** **11:30 AM – Walk Along Valencia Street** - Browse indie bookstores (**Dog Eared Books**), quirky shops, and murals. - Optional stop: **Clarion Alley** (near 17th & Mission) for vibrant street art. **12:30 PM – Lunch in the Mission** - **La Taquería** (2889 Mission St) – Famous for their burritos (cash only). - **Tartine Bakery** (600 Guerrero St) – For pastries & sandwiches. - **Delfina** (3621 18th St) – Upscale Italian if you want a sit-down meal. --- #### **Afternoon: More History or Relaxation** **2:00 PM – Optional: Visit nearby sights** - **Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts** (2868 Mission St) – Exhibits on Chicano/Latino art. - **Balmy Alley** (Between 24th & 25th St) – More incredible murals. **3:30 PM – Dessert & Wrap-Up** - **Bi-Rite Creamery** (3692 18th St) – Famous for salted caramel ice cream. - **Philz Coffee** (3101 24th St) – Mint Mojito iced coffee. **4:30 PM – Head Back or Explore Further** - If you have energy, take BART to **Sutro Baths** or **Golden Gate Park**. --- ### **Tips for Your Trip:** - **Parking:** Limited in the Mission—consider public transit (BART to 16th St Station). - **Weather:** SF can be chilly even in summer—bring layers. - **Timing:** Mission Dolores closes around 4:30 PM, so go early.