Bayview Opera House

The Bayview Opera House is a theater building featuring a blend of Italianate, Gothic, and Eastlake architectural styles designed by Henry Geilfuss. The structure displays original decorative elements and operates as a performance venue and community space.

The building was constructed in 1888 and survived the 1906 earthquake, making it one of the few structures in the area to withstand the disaster. It became the first cultural establishment in Bayview-Hunters Point and has served the community since then.

The theater serves as a community gathering place and hosts local artists, dancers, and musicians who perform and rehearse here regularly. It functions as a cultural hub where neighborhood residents experience live performances and creative expression.

The building is accessible by public transportation, particularly the Muni Metro T Line, which stops near the 3rd Street location. Check what events or open hours are currently available before visiting, as the venue primarily hosts performances and private events.

Despite its name, the building never hosted opera performances but instead served as a venue for dramas, vaudeville shows, and later dance performances. This surprising history shows how cultural centers adapt to their community's needs.

Location: San Francisco

Inception: 1888

Architects: Henry Geilfuss

GPS coordinates: 37.73515,-122.39013

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:02