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About San Francisco - Van Ness / Civic Center


The Van Ness/Civic Center neighborhood serves as the center of the city’s government as well as arts and culture scenes that boast a unique underlying energy. ...

The architectural styles most noted in this neighborhood belong not to its homes, but rather the grand buildings that encompass some of the most historical and notable sites of the city. Arts and cultural attractions include the Davies Symphony Hall, the San Francisco Opera and Ballet, the Asian Art Museum and the Herbst Theatre. And Civic Center Plaza and the United Nations Plaza are home to City Hall, which spans two full city blocks, and a number of other city, state and federal buildings.

While commercial and governmental buildings blanket the neighborhood, a small percentage of this area is dedicated to housing. Among these are a majority of condominiums, lofts, mixed-use spaces and high-rises with a handful of single-family detached homes.

Van Ness/Civic Center is a prime location for public transportation including direct access to the freeway and major public transit lines, including a BART station and Muni streetcars along Market Street and a number of criss-crossing bus lines.

The Van Ness/Civic Center neighborhood is known by all San Franciscans, not only for its notable buildings, but as a hub for citywide public events ranging from championship parades, Pride celebrations, concerts and political events. Whether it is for business, entertainment, a citywide celebration or a national matter, this is the place where San Franciscans gravitate to.