Mission Dolores is an energetic and forward-thinking district loved by artsy and creative types. Striking Victorian and Edwardian houses have been turned into spaces for a contemporary drinking, dining and retail scene. Meanwhile artists showcase their work at galleries and studios and decorate side streets with vivid murals. Sample the action of Mission Dolores and relax in one of the city’s most-loved parks.

The neighborhood takes its name from the Mission San Francisco de Asís, aka Mission Dolores. Founded in 1776, it is San Francisco’s oldest existing building and survived the Mexican War of Independence and a devastating earthquake in 1906. Admire the graceful Spanish-style architecture, ornate interior and a hidden mural painted by Native Americans. See the graves of Miwok and Ohlone settlers and Luis Antonio Arguello, who was the first Californio governor of Alta California.

Locals gather at Mission Dolores Park to relax on lush, sloping lawns, picnic and play sports. Come to experience the atmosphere and photograph the views of the downtown skyline. Monuments sit scattered around the park, including a statue of Mexican independence hero Miguel Hidalgo. Look for the iconic Golden Fire Hydrant, which helped save the area from a post-earthquake fire.

Bustling Valencia Street is the neighborhood’s hub for fashion, food and funky nightlife spots. Peruse bookstores, boutiques and thrift shops. Hop between coffee roasters, gourmet ice cream parlors, brewpubs, taquerias and cocktail bars. The City Art Cooperative Gallery and Incline Gallery showcase the innovative talents of local artists.

For more art, study the socially engaged murals that decorate Clarion Alley Street Art. Portrayals of historical and fictional feminine icons adorn the facade and hall of the Women’s Building. Called MaestraPeace, it’s the work of seven female artists, including Juana Alicia.Artists with disabilities produce, exhibit and sell their work at Creativity Explored.

Mission Dolores is part of the larger Mission District neighborhood, in central-western San Francisco. Get here by taking the subway to the 16th St Mission station. Light rail services also stop in the area.