Castro

Ground zero for gay community. The street is anchored by the exquisite Castro Theatre. Zeal for style and pleasures are reflected in the neighborhood flavor, from wine shop to chocolate, even hardware stores are more charming than utilitarian. The rainbow flag, seen often, represents diversity, inclusiveness, and pride.

Part of Mexican ranch land in the mid-1800s, the neighborhood grew as Market Street became thoroughfare. The gay community formed gradually from the 1940s through the 1970s, then led by Harvey Milk, whose camera shop was at 575 Castro Street.