Hidden Gems in the Chinatown Neighborhood in San Francisco, CA - Wedding Photographer Near Me
About The Chinatown Neighborhood In San Francisco, California
This is one of the country's oldest and most established Chinatowns. A bustling maze of streets and alleys beyond the iconic Dragon's Gate brims with dim sum joints and other traditional eateries. Herbalists, bakeries, souvenir shops, dark cocktail lounges, and karaoke bars can also be found. There are ornate temples, such as the Tien How, as well as the Chinese Historical Society of America Museum.
The Chinatown neighborhood in San Francisco, California is a culturally rich and vibrant area that is home to many historic landmarks. This fascinating neighborhood is worth exploring for its unique architecture, delicious food, and interesting culture. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a longtime resident, be sure to check out all that Chinatown has to offer!
Things To Do In Chinatown
Chinatown is one of the most popular tourist destinations in San Francisco. If you're looking for things to do in Chinatown, here are some ideas: take a walk through Chinatown's famous gate, visit the Chinese Historical Society of America Museum, get a fortune cookie at Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory, or buy some traditional Chinese herbs at Ten Ren Tea & Ginseng Company. And of course, don't forget to try some authentic Chinese cuisine while you're there!
Chinatown is blessed with an abundance of fun attractions for residents and visitors to enjoy. Here’s a short list of our favorites:
Union Square | 333 Post St, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States
In the heart of San Francisco's shopping district lies Union Square. This vibrant area is home to flagship stores, high-end boutiques, theaters, art galleries, and more. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities and attractions, from people watching to window shopping to dining and entertainment. Whether you're looking for a leisurely afternoon exploring or a lively night in the town, Union Square is the perfect destination. Come see what all the fuss is about!
San Francisco Cable Car Museum | 1201 Mason St, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States
Welcome to the San Francisco Cable Car Museum! This is the only place in the world where you can see, touch, and learn about the amazing engineering feats that are San Francisco's cable cars.
Its mission is to educate the public about the history, technology, and impact of this unique form of urban transportation. They also strive to preserve as much of this vanishing heritage as possible. So come on in and take a ride through time! And don't forget to check out their gift shop for some great San Francisco souvenirs.
Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory | 56 Ross Alley, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States
If you're ever in the mood for some delicious Chinese food, be sure to check out the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory in San Francisco, California. This factory is well known for making some of the best fortune cookies in the business, and it's a fun place to visit too. You can watch the cookies being made right before your eyes, and then taste test them yourself! The owners are very friendly and welcoming, so don't be afraid to ask them any questions.
Living In Chinatown
San Francisco's Chinatown is one of the oldest and largest Chinatowns in North America. It's also one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city. If you're looking for authentic Chinese food, interesting shops, and a vibrant cultural experience, Chinatown is definitely worth a visit! Keep in mind that it can be quite crowded on weekends, so try to go during the week if you can.
Residents are also able to enjoy a rich spiritual life at the following houses of worship:
Old Saint Mary's Cathedral | 660 California St, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States
Old St. Mary's Cathedral + Holy Family Chinese Mission is a one-of-a-kind Paulist Foundation that celebrates cultural diversity, upholds the tradition of excellence in Catholic education, and seeks to evangelize in accordance with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and Catholic Church teachings. In Sacred liturgy, they welcome all who seek to live the gospel while celebrating God's generosity.
Since 1894, the Paulist Fathers have served as a welcoming missionary Roman Catholic church. Its historic church is located near downtown San Francisco, California, at the intersection of Chinatown and the financial district.
Notre Dame Des Victoires Church | 566 Bush St, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States
The Notre Dame Des Victoires Church in San Francisco, California is a beautiful example of French Gothic Revival architecture. The church was completed in 1875 and has been meticulously preserved since then. Today, it's a popular tourist attraction thanks to its stunning design and history. If you're ever in the Bay Area, be sure to stop by this incredible church!
First Chinese Baptist Church | 15 Waverly Pl, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States
The First Chinese Baptist Church in San Francisco, California is a beautiful building that has been around for over 100 years. The church is located in the heart of Chinatown and is home to a thriving community of members. The church offers many different programs and services, and its congregation is incredibly supportive and welcoming. If you're ever in the area, be sure to stop by and take a look!
Parks, Schools & Other Points Of Interest In Chinatown
Chinatown is also home to some amazing parks, schools, public libraries, and schools for its citizens to enjoy. These facilities are all world-class, beautifully maintained, and clean so residents of surrounding communities often visit to enjoy them. Here’s a short list all located in Chinatown:
Willie “Woo Woo” Wong Playground | 830 Sacramento St, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States
Willie "Woo Woo" Wong was a well-known Chinese American cartoonist in the early 20th century. He was born and raised in San Francisco's Chinatown, and his playground was recently named after him. The Willie "Woo Woo" Wong Playground is located on Stockton Street between Pacific Avenue and Broadway. It is a small park with a basketball court, picnic tables, and a children's play area. There is also a mural of Wong's cartoons on the side of the playground.
Woh Hei Yuen | San Francisco, CA 94133, United States
Chinatown in San Francisco is a vibrant and historic neighborhood, and Woh Hei Yuen park is a great place to experience it. The park is full of Chinese culture, from traditional architecture to beautiful gardens. And, of course, there's the food! Chinatown is home to some of the best Chinese restaurants in the city. If you're looking for a taste of authentic Chinese culture, Woh Hei Yuen Park is definitely the place to go.
Gordon J. Lau Elementary School | 950 Clay St, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States
In 1885, the Chinese Primary School was established to separate Chinese students from white students in public schools. It was renamed Oriental School in 1906 to include children of Japanese descent. The Chinese community, however, objected to the derogatory term "Oriental," so the school board changed the name to Commodore Stockton Elementary School in 1924 in honor of Commodore Robert F. Stockton, a U.S. Naval officer who went on to serve as a U.S. Senator. In 1926, the first Chinese American teacher, Alice Fong Yu, taught at this school. Gordon J. Lau Elementary School was renamed in honor of the community activist and San Francisco's first elected Chinese American Supervisor, Gordon J. Lau, in 1998. At this school, children of all races are celebrated and welcomed.
Jean Parker Elementary School | 840 Broadway, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States
Jean Parker Elementary School is a small but mighty school that serves students from North Beach, Russian Hill, and Chinatown, as well as students from all over San Francisco. Jean Parker is located near the east end of the Broadway Tunnel, making it convenient for many families' workplaces. Its diversity is their strength, and it is a reflection of the wonderful city that they call home.
It provides a supportive community for students and families that focuses on positive social-emotional development, academic achievement, and provides a well-rounded education through the arts, field trips, and community events. They are proud of their teaching staff's stability and experience, many of whom are San Francisco natives committed to supporting the community in which they were raised.
Chinatown Branch Library | 1135 Powell St, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States
Chinatown Branch Library is the only library in the United States that is specifically designed to serve a Chinatown community. Located in San Francisco, CA, this public library has been serving residents since 1996. Today, the Chinatown Branch Library remains a vibrant center for language and culture, with materials and programs in Chinese and English. If you're looking to explore San Francisco's Chinatown, or learn more about Chinese culture, the Chinatown Branch Library is worth a visit!
Map From Chinatown To Our Location