Since the 1950s, Central American and Mexican families have been settling in the Mission district of San Francisco, infusing the neighborhood with a flavor and history unique among SF's countless districts. On the borders of the Castro, Potrero Hill and Noe Valley, the heart of the Mission runs from Folsom St. to Dolores St. between 16th St. and 24th St.

With BART stops at both ends of Mission St at 16th St and 24th St., the area is incredibly accessible and easy to navigate. There's also plenty of things to do on any given day at any given time with taquerias, produce markets and local shops populating the main drag of Mission St. and a younger set of cafes, shops and restaurants cropping up on the more chic Valencia St. The general atmosphere is decidedly laid back and down to earth, populated by families, college kids and San Franciscans and tourists indulging in their favorite Mission pastimes.

There are plenty of bars, clubs, restaurants and general nightlife hubs along both and all of the numbered streets to make for an infinite array of possible nights out. Here at Metrowize, we've made the selection process easier by featuring some of our favorite hotspots for whatever mood you're in. We've narrowed in on some of the standouts of the Mission to help get you on your way to making the way you experience the Mission uniquely your own.