San Francisco Armory, Military armory in Mission District, San Francisco, US.
The San Francisco Armory is an office building and former military facility in the Mission District of San Francisco, California. The complex in Moorish Revival style shows massive corner towers, arched windows, and a large central hall that once served for military drills.
The California National Guard had the fortress built in 1912 after the 1906 earthquake destroyed the old armory. Later the building changed ownership several times and was converted for civilian uses.
Mission District takes its name from the nearby Mission Dolores, and the building now stands among Victorian homes and small neighborhood shops. Visitors recognize the chestnut-colored bricks and castle-like battlements that reflect California military traditions.
The outer walls and towers can be seen well from the street, especially from the Mission Street corner. The hall inside is only accessible during public events, so it is worth checking the calendar beforehand.
A sophisticated lighting system was installed in the ceiling that covers the entire hall and provides flexible light for different productions. This technology is among the largest of its kind on the West Coast and makes the interior interesting for film and theater groups.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.