About First Unitarian Universalist Church & Center
The First Unitarian Universalist Society of San Francisco (Pictured at 1187 Franklin Street) is a historic church and community venue in the Civic Center area. The elegant Sanctuary was built in 1889 . It features massive oak beams, ornate chandeliers, and large stained-glass windows complemented by a rare 3,000-pipe organ . Musicians praise the sanctuary’s excellent acoustics . This main hall seats about 475 people and even includes a rear balcony and choir loft. In addition to the sanctuary, the complex contains an octagonal Chapel (with an 80-person theater-style capacity) , the two large meeting rooms (Starr King Room – 250 seats; Martin Luther King Room – 100 seats) , a cozy Fireside Room (40 seats), a rehearsal hall (Macondray Hall, seating ~100) , plus several smaller conference rooms and a landscaped courtyard with a fountain. The Starr King and MLK rooms open onto a modern glass lobby, added in 1968 along with an education wing, to blend mid-century design with the 19th-century brick church . In short, First UU SF is both a functioning liberal church (organized 1850) and a unique cultural center – its signature combination of historic architecture and thoughtful design makes it a standout in San Francisco’s arts scene.
Events and Programming
This venue hosts a wide range of events year-round. A central program is the Starr King Way Performance Series (SKWPS), which presents roughly ten concerts annually. Curated by the church’s music staff (Nancy Munn and Mark Sumner), SKWPS features diverse artists – from classical ensembles and solo jazz to folk and world-music acts . These concerts generally take place on select Sunday afternoons at 1:30 PM in the sanctuary . Attendance is by donation (suggested $20) rather than fixed-price tickets. Besides SKWPS, the church occasionally hosts other music and theater events: for example, youth choirs, jazz evenings (soul or R&B concerts), experimental radio plays, and a popular annual “Broadway Sing-Along” fundraiser with dinner. Informal recitals and lectures also occur – the sanctuary often doubles as a recital hall for community ensembles or award ceremonies.
Many regular church events serve the community, too: holiday pageants, interfaith services, and social justice gatherings happen here, though these are closed group functions. The church complex is also frequently rented for private events. Weddings are common (both religious and secular ceremonies), as are lectures, conferences, and corporate seminars. The variety of spaces means small groups (25–50 people) and large audiences (over 300) can be accommodated . In fact, the UU Society advertises space for anything from cozy meetings to full-scale banquets and retreats . Overall, First UU SF is known as a gracious home for culture and community – its schedule blends sacred services with concerts, community dinners, lectures, and gatherings of all kinds.
Tickets and Booking
Since most public events here are run by the church itself, there usually isn’t a traditional box office. Concerts in the Starr King Series and other performances are typically donation-based: for example, the suggested admission is $20 , paid at the door or via the church’s website. Many events (especially smaller ones) accept cash or check at the entrance rather than pre-sold tickets. Some special events – like a catered dinner or fundraiser – have a set ticket price (often around $30) and require RSVPs in advance; these are promoted through the church’s announcements after services or on their website. To secure seating for popular shows, it’s wise to check the church calendar early. Usually tickets or reservations go on sale a few weeks ahead of each event. There is no external ticket outlet, so all sales and inquiries are handled through First UU’s offices or the SKWPS contact line. In general, arrive early for a good seat or email the church office to confirm details.
Seating and Layout
The sanctuary is arranged in traditional theater style. Its main floor has cushioned seats arranged in rows facing the chancel, and a rear balcony provides additional seating. Seating is fixed (no general admission standing area); all spots are first-come. Because the hall was designed for speech and music, even side and rear seats enjoy great sound . The best seats depend on preference: front seats give a visual and acoustic connection to performers, while center seats (middle of floor or balcony) balance stage view and resonance. Sightlines are generally clear throughout the hall (there are no large structural columns to obstruct views).
The smaller Chapel (octagonal shape) is intimate – good for choirs and smaller chamber music. The Starr King Room and MLK Room can be opened into one large space; normally the SKR is set for 250 theater-style and MLK for 100. Those rooms have parquet floors and skylights, making them bright and flexible (they are often used for presentations or receptions). The Fireside Room, adjacent to the Chapel, seats 40 in theater setup and feels cozy (with a working fireplace). Macondray Hall (downstairs) holds about 100 on lecture chairs and has very good acoustics (often used for choir rehearsals or small recitals) . In all these rooms, seating is unassigned and patrons can choose their seats freely on arrival. Some events occasionally reserve front rows for sponsors, but typically it’s all open seating.
Getting There and Parking
First UU is in downtown San Francisco at the corner of Franklin Street and Geary Boulevard (1187 Franklin St) . It’s a short walk from Civic Center Plaza and a few blocks from Union Square. Public transit options are excellent: Muni bus 38 Geary (and the 38R Rapid) stop directly at Franklin & Geary right by the church. Muni lines 47 and 49 (Van Ness / Mission / Geary routes) also stop nearby. The Civic Center/UN Plaza BART & Muni Station (Powell Street) is about a mile away (roughly a 15-minute walk uphill). From Market Street BART (Montgomery, Powell, or Civic Center stations), you can also catch buses or enjoy a 20-minute stroll up to Geary. Rideshare can drop off at the Franklin St entrance – tell the driver to pull up curbside along Franklin or Geary.
Parking is limited in this busy area. Street parking is metered Monday through Saturday (evenings often have some free curb parking), and on Sundays most street parking is free . For guaranteed parking, the nearest public lot is Sutter Place Garage (access via 635-637 Franklin, one block south of Geary) . Other pay garages are located at nearby hotels or on Sutter and Ellis Streets around Civic Center. Allow extra time on event nights to find a spot. Bikers can use the secure bike parking in the courtyard . Due to traffic, rideshare or transit is often the most stress-free way to arrive.
Inside the Venue
Visitors enter through grand wooden doors on Franklin Street (for the sanctuary) or via the interior courtyard off Geary (which leads to meeting rooms and a lobby). Staff or volunteers often greet guests; if it’s an event night, ushers help locate seats. There is typically a check-in or donation table near the entrance where programs or tickets are distributed. Security is generally light but courteous – for free/donation events, you usually just walk in; for open-to-public rental events, basic bag checks might occur.
Inside you’ll find the atmosphere is calm and reverent. The main sanctuary is well-lit by natural light from its stained-glass windows and by chandeliers, giving it a warm glow. Ushers will direct you to restrooms (located toward the back), and there are small coat racks in winter. Refreshments are not sold inside the sanctuary, but the lobby or Fireside Room often offers free coffee/tea after Sunday services or at special church gatherings. (On concert nights there is no bar, so consider getting snacks beforehand or plan a post-show dinner nearby.) The church itself does not have a restaurant or full snack bar, and generally outside food/drink is discouraged in the worship spaces. Wifi is not provided for general guests (focus is on acoustics and fellowship). Overall, the venue feels more like attending a concert in a cathedral – respectful quiet is expected, and applause is welcome after performances.
Nearby Amenities
The church’s downtown location means plenty of nearby options. For pre- or post-event meals, the Union Square and Civic Center districts offer everything from casual cafés to upscale dining. A few blocks east (toward Powell Street) you’ll find coffee shops, delis, and family-run restaurants. Closer to the church are some local favorites: a French bistro or Italian restaurant on Sutter, or a popular seafood and salad eatery. The Tenderloin and Lower Nob Hill districts (just to the north and south) have inexpensive Thai, Burmese, and kosher delis. For drinks, there are several wine bars and lounges within a 5–10 minute walk (along Polk or Van Ness), plus late-night cafés near Union Square. Almost any cuisine or budget can be met within a few blocks.
Hotels abound nearby. Major ones include the Hilton San Francisco Union Square and Parc55 by Hilton (both about 5–10 minutes’ walk). Civic Center Plaza has the Marin or Grant hotels. If you’re flying in, the temple is about 20 minutes by car from SFO. After an evening show, 24-hour Muni bus lines (90 and 91) run on Fulton and Market, or you can hail a rideshare from the corner of Franklin & Geary.
What Makes This Venue Special
First Unitarian Universalist Church & Center is beloved for its unique blend of historic charm and community spirit. Architecturally, the redbrick Romanesque facade and soaring sanctuary evoke an old-world grandeur rare in San Francisco. The stained-glass windows (some by known artisans) and the exacting oak craftsmanship give the hall a warm, intimate feeling. Musicians especially cite the natural reverb of the timbered ceiling and the clarity of sound – the sanctuary reputation is such that it “gets rave reviews” for acoustics . A highlight is the Walter Ziel Roberts / Aeolian-Skinner pipe organ (1963), which fills the room with rich tones and is a point of pride for the church.
Culturally, the church has deep roots in the city’s progressive legacy. In the 1860s it was led by Rev. Thomas Starr King, a famous advocate who reportedly helped keep California in the Union during the Civil War . Today that spirit lives on in the people and the floats of mission: the congregation emphasizes inclusivity, social justice, and the arts. Evening events often feel less like attending church and more like gathering in a community salon – visitors often comment on the volunteers’ warmth and the venue’s welcoming atmosphere. The campus even features a modern courtyard fountain (“Interface” by sculptor Demetrios Aristides) that adds an artistic flourish outdoors. In many ways, First UU SF is a cultural hub: performers like its great sound and audiences enjoy its non-pretentious yet historic vibe. Whether you come for music, community meetings, or just to admire the architecture, you’ll feel the venue’s strong sense of purpose and tradition.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Wheelchair users can reach the sanctuary via the elevator from the on-site garage, and three of the street-level doors are ramped (staff may unlock them during non-service hours) . All meeting floors are elevator-accessible. Assisted listening devices are typically available for large events. Bring any aid (cane, etc) – the staff is helpful. Service animals are welcome on the premises.
Parking & Arrival: On weekends plan extra time for parking (street parking fills up). Arrive at least 15 minutes before events to find a seat. If you’re coming for Sunday worship (11 AM) , seats can fill fast. If the foyer is locked, ring the bell by the door or use the garage entry code (it’s posted on the door) to enter.
Etiquette: The church is a sacred space, so dress is casual business or smart casual – no formal dress required, but also avoid overly beachy or sloppy attire. Photography is allowed for the architecture (outside/inside), but during concerts or performances do not use flash or disrupt others. Cell phones should be silenced and, if possible, left off during services or concerts. For worship services, families with children are welcome (there is a children’s area and program), but during evening events keep kids quiet or use the lobby.
What to Bring: Nothing special is required – just your ticket/donation money, a charged phone (for maps on the way), and perhaps a light sweater (the tall sanctuary can be cool). There is no formal coat check, so hold onto coats or drape them on provided racks behind the pews if needed. Most drink-service events (like benefit dinners) include drinks, but at concerts expect a water fountain or bottled water only.
How do I get tickets or make a reservation for events?
Most concerts at First UU are donation-based and have no formal tickets – you simply pay at the door. For the Starr King Way series, a $20 suggested donation is asked . Some special events (like dinners or workshops) do sell a limited number of tickets or require RSVP; these are handled in advance through the church office or event organizers. Watch the church’s announcements for booking details.
What is the seating arrangement and capacity?
The main Sanctuary seats about 475 people in cushioned chairs, plus a rear balcony. Smaller rooms have fixed seating: the Chapel has 80 seats , the large Starr King Room 250 seats (theater style) , and the Martin Luther King Room 100 seats . All public events are open seating; there is generally no standing-only area. Arrive early to claim preferred seats, as tickets are not preassigned.
Where can I park, and is parking free?
Street parking surrounds the church but is metered most days. On Sundays, meters are not enforced (it’s free) . For other days, nearby paid garages are easiest: the closest is Sutter Place Garage (637 Franklin St), less than a block away . Other Union Square/Civic Center lots are within a short walk. Plan at least 15 minutes to find parking before an event.
What public transit serves the church?
Several Muni lines stop near the venue: bus 38-Geary and 38R (Rapid) stop at Franklin & Geary right out front, and lines 47 and 49 (Van Ness/Geary routes) stop one block east. The Civic Center BART/Muni station (Powell or Civic Center) is about a mile away (a 15–20 minute walk) . Easy rideshare drop-off is at the Franklin Street entrance.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes. There is an elevator from the on-site parking garage that goes up to main level and all meeting floors . Three of the street-level entrances are wheelchair ramps (they remain locked during the week, so request assistance from the office to open them) . All public rooms (sanctuary, chapel, meeting rooms) are reachable via ramps/elevator. If you need special accommodations (assisted listening devices, large-print programs, etc.), just contact staff ahead of your visit.
Can I take photos or record performances inside?
Photography of the architecture is generally allowed (no flash near the organ pipes), but during concerts or performances you should check with the organizers. Many concerts request no photography or video to respect artists and the audience. For church services or public gatherings, casual photos in the hallways/lobby are fine, but avoid disrupting the program. In short: ask a staff member or check the event flyer.
Are snacks or meals available on site?
The church does not have a restaurant or full concessions stand. Free coffee/tea is offered after Sunday services in the Fireside Room, and certain fundraisers may include a provided meal. For most concerts and events, plan to eat nearby before coming. There are no food vendors inside. Please note that outside food and drink is discouraged in the sanctuary during performances.
Are children welcome?
Yes, children of all ages are welcome to attend events and services. The church often offers childcare or a children’s program during Sunday worship at 11:00 AM . For evening concerts, families notice the space is generally calm – it’s fine to bring well-behaved kids, but there is no official play area. (If it’s a particularly quiet recital, consider bringing a quiet activity for little ones.) If a performance is ticketed for adults only, it will be noted. Otherwise the venue is family-friendly.
Is there a coat check or cloakroom?
No formal coat check is provided. In cooler months, you can usually hang coats on racks or keep them by your seat. Ushers may also assist in stowing jackets in a corner. There is space to keep small personal items under the pews or in the hallway; just be mindful of others moving around you. Always keep valuables with you or locked in your car, as unattended bags are discouraged.
What time does Sunday service start?
First UU’s main worship service is held on Sundays at 11:00 AM . The service (open to the public) usually lasts about an hour and is followed by a social hour with refreshments. Non-members are welcome to just drop in. (On Sunday evenings or weekdays the building is closed unless a special event is scheduled.)
How old is the building, and is it historically significant?
The sanctuary was dedicated in 1889 and is one of the few major San Francisco churches that survived the 1906 earthquake. It’s designed in a Romanesque Revival style by architects Percy & Hamilton. The site is a San Francisco Landmark and is treasured for its design details (oak ceiling, stained-glass, etc.). A modern education wing and chapel were added in 1968, blending old and new on the same block .
