The activism of the '60s and '70s forged a community with sizable political and economic power, and when the historic Twin Peaks bar at Market and Castro streets was built with floor-to-ceiling windows, most took it as a sign that Castro residents were secure in their gay identity. There were, however, tense and sometimes violent clashes with the police, and the assassination in 1978 of openly gay San Francisco Supervisor Harvey Milk was a turning point in the community's history. Milk's death and the impact of AIDS brought the community together and made activists of almost everyone; the Castro became not just open but celebratory about its thriving gay and lesbian population.
Today, the Castro's queer identity is itself a tourist attraction, beckoning throngs of pilgrims and revelers from all over the world. Since the introduction of the F Market street car, shuttling unsuspecting Midwestern families down from Fisherman's Wharf, denizens have been lamenting the demise and dilution of the gayest spot on earth. Yet the unabated proliferation of shops selling, ahem, adult accessories sporting neon signs touting "Lube 4 Less" tips off even the most untrained eye to the deeply entrenched community here.



Apartments For Rent

2035 15th St.
1 Bedrooms. Located near Castro and Safeway with easy access to Public Transportation.

2037-2039 15th St.
3 Bedroom Flats. Located near Castro and Safeway with easy access to Public Transportation.

2213 Market St
Spacious 2 Bedrooms & 3 Bedrooms. Located in between Castro and Safeway with easy access Downtown or to the Sunset/Richmond areas.

2339 Market St.
Studios & 1 Bedrooms. Located near Castro Street and Safeway with easy access to Public Transportation.

2775 Market St.
1 Bedrooms and 2 Bedrooms. Located 4
blocks from popular Castro Street with
easy access to the Muni line.