The Castro is one of the most famous LGBTQ neighbourhoods in the world, a place where rainbow flags fly from every lamppost and the crosswalks are painted in rainbow stripes. It became the centre of gay political activism in the 1970s, when Harvey Milk opened his camera shop on Castro Street and went on to become one of the first openly gay elected officials in the United States.
The Castro Theatre, a gorgeous 1922 movie palace, anchors the commercial strip. Harvey Milk Plaza at Castro and Market marks the gateway to the neighbourhood, with a giant rainbow flag overhead. The bars along 18th Street and Castro Street range from historic dives to lively dance spots. It is a neighbourhood that wears its history proudly and remains a vibrant, welcoming place.