Originally known as Eureka Valley, San Francisco’s Castro district is one of the most vibrant areas of the City. Regarded as perhaps the best-known gay neighborhood in the world, Castro Street starts near the intersection of Divisadero and Waller Streets and runs south toward Noe Valley. The community received its name from the landmark Castro Theater which is situated by the intersection of Market and Castro Streets.
As many gay and lesbian San Franciscans moved to the area when housing prices dropped, the Castro soon became a politically active neighborhood, led by openly gay San Francisco Supervisor Harvey Milk, who was assassinated in 1978. The identity of the Castro as a gay haven still attracts many tourists throughout the year to visit its quirky shops and experience its history.
