Fillmore District San Francisco
Vibrant San Francisco district known for its iconic music venue, diverse shopping on Fillmore Street, and rich cultural heritage.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience live music magic
Fillmore District San Francisco
Best Time
Experience live music magic

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vibrant San Francisco district known for its iconic music venue, diverse shopping on Fillmore Street, and rich cultural heritage.
"The Fillmore District offers a unique blend of history, culture, shopping, and dining experiences."
🎯 Free Poster on Exit
Stay until the end of a show at The Fillmore for a free concert poster!
🖼️ Explore the Poster Room
Don't miss the incredible collection of concert posters upstairs at The Fillmore.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Fillmore Music Venue
1805 Geary Blvd
Iconic concert hall with a rich history, known for its intimate atmosphere and legendary performances.

Fillmore Street Shopping
Fillmore Street
A premier shopping destination with a curated selection of boutiques, from fashion to home decor.

Japantown
Adjacent to Fillmore District
A vibrant cultural hub offering unique shops, delicious food, and a peaceful Japanese Tea Garden.
Nia's Soul Food
1325 Fillmore Street
A popular spot for authentic soul food, featuring tender oxtails and delicious fried catfish.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Fillmore
Concert & Shopping Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Poster on Exit
Stay until the end of a show at The Fillmore for a free concert poster!
🖼️ Explore the Poster Room
Don't miss the incredible collection of concert posters upstairs at The Fillmore.
💰 Cash for Ice Cream
Miyako's ice cream shop on Fillmore St prefers cash payments.
🚶♀️ Walk Fillmore Street
Enjoy a 3+ mile walk exploring the shops and sights of Fillmore Street.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Poster on Exit
Stay until the end of a show at The Fillmore for a free concert poster!
🖼️ Explore the Poster Room
Don't miss the incredible collection of concert posters upstairs at The Fillmore.
💰 Cash for Ice Cream
Miyako's ice cream shop on Fillmore St prefers cash payments.
🚶♀️ Walk Fillmore Street
Enjoy a 3+ mile walk exploring the shops and sights of Fillmore Street.
🍜 Lunch Deals
Look for affordable 3-course lunch deals at Ninniku Ramen Izakaya.
🍎 Take an Apple
Free apples are available at the entrance of The Fillmore venue.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Fillmore District is celebrated for its vibrant shopping on Fillmore Street and its iconic music venue, The Fillmore. Visitors enjoy the diverse dining options, from soul food to ramen, and the district's rich cultural history. While generally safe, some caution is advised in certain areas, particularly south of Geary.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Fillmore District is well-served by public transportation. The 38 and 38R bus lines run along Geary Boulevard, providing access to many parts of the city, while the 22 bus travels north to the Marina and south to the Mission. For those driving, parking can be found in garages like the one in Japantown, or on the street, though awareness of surroundings is advised.
Street parking can be challenging in the Fillmore District. Many visitors opt for parking garages, such as the one in Japantown, which is a few blocks away and generally considered safe. Some Redditors have reported success finding street parking a few blocks north of The Fillmore venue without issues.
The 38 and 38R bus lines are excellent for reaching Fillmore Street, running along Geary Boulevard. The 22 bus also provides north-south access. These routes connect you to various San Francisco neighborhoods, making it easy to explore.
Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in San Francisco and can be a convenient way to reach the Fillmore District, especially if you're coming from further afield or prefer door-to-door service.
While many sidewalks are accessible, some older areas might have uneven surfaces. For events at The Fillmore music venue, ADA seating is available upon request. Public transport options like buses are generally accessible.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
For most shows at The Fillmore, arriving about 15-30 minutes before the main act is recommended by many concert-goers to secure a good standing spot without excessive waiting. You don't necessarily need to arrive hours early unless you're aiming for the very front row.
The Fillmore is primarily a standing-room venue, but there is limited seating. If you require seating due to ADA needs, inform the venue upon arrival or in advance, and they will accommodate you.
Ticket availability at the door depends on the show and whether it's sold out in advance. It's always best to check the venue's website or ticket vendor for availability and purchase tickets in advance to guarantee entry, especially for popular acts.
Most shops on Fillmore Street are open from around 10 AM to 6 PM or 7 PM, with some boutiques staying open later, especially on weekends. Restaurants and bars have their own operating hours, often extending into the evening.
The Fillmore is generally all-ages for most concerts, but it's crucial to check the specific event details for any age restrictions, as some shows may be 18+ or 21+.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Fillmore Street offers a diverse shopping experience, featuring a mix of high-end boutiques, independent shops, and well-known brands. You can find everything from fashion and accessories to home decor and specialty items.
Absolutely! The Fillmore District boasts a wide array of dining options, from casual eateries and ramen shops with lunch deals
to soul food restaurants and pizza places. You can also find diverse cuisines in nearby Japantown.Don't miss Nia's Soul Food for oxtails and fried catfish,
Ninniku Ramen Izakaya for affordable lunch sets, and Miyako's for unique ice cream flavors (bring cash!). Little Star Pizza is also a popular choice for deep-dish pizza.Yes, explore boutiques like Sezane for stylish clothing
and 'in the black,' a marketplace supporting Black entrepreneurs. Miyako's ice cream and candy store offers a nostalgic experience.Wander along Fillmore Street and explore the various restaurants and cafes. Consider trying a few different spots for appetizers, main courses, and desserts to get a full taste of the district's culinary offerings.
🎫 🎶 Music & Culture
The Fillmore has a legendary history, dating back to the 1960s psychedelic rock era. It was a pivotal venue for artists like the Grateful Dead and Janis Joplin, and continues to host a wide range of musical acts today.
The Fillmore District was historically known as the 'Harlem of the West' due to its vibrant Black culture, jazz scene, and numerous Black-owned businesses in the mid-20th century. This legacy is still celebrated today.
The Fillmore District hosts various events throughout the year, including music festivals, community celebrations like Juneteenth,
and seasonal events like Mardi Gras parades.Upstairs from the main concert hall, you can visit the Poster Room, which is filled floor-to-ceiling with historical concert posters from The Fillmore's past. It's a fascinating glimpse into music history.
Yes, a unique tradition at The Fillmore is the offering of free apples at the entrance and a free concert poster for attendees who stay until the end of the show.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant street art, unique storefronts along Fillmore Street, and the iconic facade of The Fillmore music venue. The nearby Japantown also offers picturesque spots like the Peace Pagoda.
Photography policies can vary by event, but generally, non-professional cameras or phone cameras are allowed for personal use. Professional camera equipment usually requires a press pass. Always check the venue's specific policy for the event you're attending.
There are no widespread restrictions on photography in the public areas of the Fillmore District. However, always be respectful of private property and individuals when taking photos.
Late afternoon or early evening can offer beautiful golden hour light for photographing Fillmore Street's architecture and shops. Weekday mornings are less crowded, allowing for clearer shots of storefronts.
Look for colorful murals, interesting architectural details on Fillmore Street, and the historic signage of The Fillmore venue. The diverse shops also offer visually appealing displays.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While The Fillmore music venue is often all-ages, it's essential to check the specific event details for any age restrictions. If attending a concert, consider arriving closer to showtime to minimize waiting with younger children. Nearby Japantown also offers cultural experiences and food that can appeal to families.
🎶 Music Enthusiasts
Beyond The Fillmore itself, the district has a history tied to jazz and Black culture, which can be explored through local businesses and community events. Check local listings for smaller venues or cultural events that might be happening in the area during your visit.
🛍️ Shoppers & Foodies
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Fillmore: A Legendary Music Venue
Attendees often praise the venue for its unique ambiance and the chance to see a wide range of musical genres. A special tradition is the poster room upstairs, filled with decades of concert posters, offering a visual journey through music history. Visitors also appreciate the complimentary apples at the entrance and the free concert poster given out at the end of shows, adding to the memorable experience.
While it's a standing-room venue, The Fillmore does offer ADA seating upon request for those who need it. Arriving about 15-30 minutes before the main act is generally sufficient to get a good spot, so you don't need to camp out for hours unless you're aiming for the very front.
Exploring Fillmore Street: Shopping & Dining
The dining options along Fillmore Street are equally impressive, catering to a wide range of tastes and budgets. You can find everything from trendy cafes and ramen shops offering affordable lunch deals to authentic soul food restaurants and popular pizza joints. Don't miss out on local favorites like Nia's Soul Food for their renowned oxtails and fried catfish, or Miyako's for unique ice cream flavors.
Many visitors enjoy simply strolling down Fillmore Street, taking in the sights and sounds, and discovering hidden gems. The street is also easily walkable, making it a great place to spend an afternoon exploring the neighborhood's character and charm.
The Fillmore District's Cultural Heritage
Today, the district is home to businesses that support and showcase Black entrepreneurs, such as 'in the black,' a boutique marketplace offering a variety of goods from local artisans. Community events, like the Juneteenth celebrations, highlight the ongoing vibrancy and cultural contributions of the Black community in the Fillmore.
Beyond its Black heritage, the Fillmore District is also adjacent to Japantown, offering a rich cultural tapestry. This proximity allows visitors to experience a blend of different traditions, cuisines, and artistic expressions within a relatively small area.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit