The Castro Theatre is a San Francisco landmark -- a gorgeous 1922 movie palace designed by Timothy Pflueger in a mix of Spanish Baroque and Beaux-Arts styles, with an ornate interior that makes every show feel like an event. The neon marquee, visible for blocks up and down Castro Street, is one of the most photographed signs in the city.
After a major renovation completed in 2026, the theatre now hosts live music, comedy, and film alongside its traditional repertory screenings. The main floor was converted to a flexible standing-room format (the balcony still has seats). Whether or not you approve of the changes, the building itself remains magnificent. Try to catch something here -- seeing a film or show in this space is a quintessential San Francisco experience.