About The End Up
The EndUp is San Francisco’s legendary after-hours dance club, located at 401 Sixth Street in the SoMa neighborhood. Opened in 1973, it’s been a cornerstone of the city’s nightlife and is famous for its anything-goes party atmosphere. The venue is compact (roughly 150–200 people at capacity) and features a narrow indoor dance floor with mirrored columns, flanked by two main bars and a cozy back lounge with white couches. Its signature feature is the open-air outdoor patio, a lush tropical space with wooden benches, trees, and a multi-tiered waterfall fountain. This mix of gritty dive-bar décor and exotic outdoor flair gives The EndUp a “private party” feel. Despite its size, The EndUp packs a serious punch: a high-end EAW sound system blares booming house, disco, and electronic beats, and colorful lasers and strobes light up the room. The club’s motto is inclusivity – drag queens, club kids, LGBTQ+ patrons, and straight dancers all mix freely on the floor. Super-casual dress is the norm and the vibe is famously friendly, so anyone from leather-clad partygoers to T-shirt-and-jeans dancers can feel at home. In short, The EndUp’s blend of intimate indoor chaos, welcoming crowd, and tropical backyard design create a unique SF clubbing experience.
Events and Programming
The EndUp runs dance music events nearly every weekend. Friday and Saturday nights are packed with house, disco, and techno DJs; the club often promotes special theme parties and guest mixes by local and touring artists. Regular weekly parties include a house/techno night on Friday (often called “Fever”) and the iconic Sunday morning “T-Dance,” a long-running after-hours rave that starts at dawn. In between, promoters host monthly or holiday events (Halloween parties, Pride celebrations, etc.) and SocialSF’s Sunday “El Patio Dayclub” season saw beach-themed pool parties on the patio afternoons. In fact, in June 2024 the City of San Francisco held a free “Union Square Takeover” concert celebrating The EndUp’s 50th anniversary, headlined by house-music legends. The club came back from 2020–21 hiatus to resume full programming by 2022. Ticket covers generally range from about $10–$20 for ordinary nights; headliner DJs and holiday shows run higher (up to $30–$40). To stay current, check The EndUp’s official announcements or DJ event listings, since lineups rotate frequently.
Tickets and Booking
The EndUp sells admission primarily through its own outlets. For most club nights you simply pay at the door — the club accepts cash and cards at entry with no extra box office fees. However, for popular or limited-capacity events it’s wise to buy in advance: The EndUp typically announces presale tickets on its official website or via social media. If a show sells out online, you can still try arriving early to catch any remaining tickets at the door (though this isn’t guaranteed). Cover charges depend on the event: typical entry is around $10–$20 for standard DJ nights, but higher-demand shows may go up to $30 or more. If you have a group or need table service, The EndUp offers bottle-service packages and table reservation (usually arranged by contacting the club directly beforehand). In short, there is no third-party re-seller; buy through the club itself or pay at the door, and keep an eye on official announcements for presales so you don’t miss out.
Seating and Layout
The EndUp is laid out mostly for standing and dancing. Inside, a raised DJ booth anchors one end of a compact rectangular room, with a general-admission dance floor in front. Along the walls are three bars (one main bar on each side inside, plus a small drinks window on the patio). There is no assigned seating on the dance floor – people simply stand or dance wherever there’s space. For resting, the only permanently seated area is a lounge at the back with low white couches around a fireplace. In practice, nearly everyone stands except a handful who sit on those couches or on patio benches. The outdoor patio (which is partially covered but largely open-air) has wooden bench tables that many use for sitting between dances. If you purchase bottle service or VIP tables, these reserved spots are usually at high-top tables along the perimeter or on the patio – they’re not formal seats, just standing tables marked off for a group. As for viewing the DJ, the best spots are near the front of the floor in line with the sound stacks (you’ll feel the speakers here). Side areas near the bars have weaker audio and obstructed view, so if you want the full experience, stay central. The mirrored columns and occasional hanging cords can block sight-lines, but The EndUp’s floor size is small enough that virtually every area has a decent view of the stage. In summary: there are no “bad seats,” only more distant or quieter spots (like the back lounge or patio). Choose your spot based on whether you want maximum bass (front center) or a breather with a view (patio or couch).
Getting There and Parking
The EndUp sits at 401 Sixth Street (at Harrison Street) in San Francisco’s SoMa district. It’s just a block south of Market Street. Public transit is convenient: the Powell Street BART/Muni station (Downtown) is about a 6–8 minute walk north on Market Street. Alternatively, Muni Metro lines (J, K, L, M, N, T) stop at Market & 5th or 4th nearby. Several Muni bus lines drop you very close: for example, the 6 Haight-Parnassus and 8 Fulton run along Harrison Street; the 9 San Bruno runs on 6th Street; and the 10 Townsend intersects at 6th and Townsend. Late at night some Owl buses (90, 8X, etc.) run through downtown on Market. For BART riders, the Civic Center/UN Plaza station (about 0.7 miles north) is another option. If you drive, note that street parking in SoMa is limited (meters enforce in evenings, roughly $3–$4 per hour). Nearby garages include the City parking garage at 801 Bryant Street (one block north) and the 415 7th Street lot (three blocks east); both charge around $20–$25 for an overnight parked car. The SP+ garage at 7th & Harrison is a popular four-block walk. Many attendees prefer rideshare or drop-off: just have cars pull up on 6th Street by the entrance. Bicycle racks and e-scooters are also common on the street. Late-night riders should plan their return carefully – Muni stops around 1–2am, so taxis or apps are the usual way home after the club closes.
Inside the Venue
Expect classic club procedures inside The EndUp. At the door, you’ll show ID (21+ only) and be scanned by security. On busy nights the door staff may also pat-down or check small bags for safety. Once through, you step into a dim, clubby interior with booming bass. The bars are centrally located: a main bar inside and a smaller one on the patio. Both serve beer, wine and full bar drinks (average cocktails are around $10–$12). A snack window on the patio sells basic late-night food (hot dogs, dumplings, etc.) if you need a bite. There is no official coat-check desk (some nights staff might offer to hold jackets near the entrance, but don’t count on it). The bathrooms include one ADA-accessible stall; they stay reasonably clean for a nightclub, though lines can form at peak hours. The club does not advertise Wi-Fi, but cell service generally works if you need it. Dress is extremely casual – comfort for dancing is key. Security personnel float inside to keep things smooth, and the atmosphere is very free-spirited: people dance, chat, or lounge on the patio benches under string lights. Just remember, The EndUp is very loud inside – you’ll feel the music in your chest, so conversation usually happens outside or near the back lounge where it’s quieter. Photography with phones is common, but larger camera rigs or flash photos are discouraged without permission. Smoking and vaping are not allowed on the dance floor (patio is the only place for that). Overall, the entry and atmosphere aim to be low-hassle and party-focused: relax, tip your bartender, and enjoy the late-night dance environment.
Nearby Amenities
Located in the buzzy Dogpatch/SoMa area, The EndUp is surrounded by food, drink, and lodging options. For pre-show dining, you have everything from fast-casual to sit-down a few blocks away. Some local favorites include burger and sandwich spots (like Ike’s Place on Harrison), Thai and sushi takeout counters in the 7th St. corridor, or the famous hot dog stand at 215 2nd St (late-night crowd favorite). Upscale diners and cafes (for brunch or coffee) are in the broader downtown area (e.g. Union Square is a 10–15 minute walk north). For nightlife, popular bars near SoMa include The Stud (at 9th & Harrison), AsiaSF (11th St.), and Eastside establishments on 8th Street – handy if you want to keep the party going after The EndUp. Hotels are plentiful: big-city hotels like the Marriott Marquis or Westin (3rd & Market, about 0.3 miles away) and smaller boutique hotels around King or Mission are all within walking distance. If you stay near Market Street, plan a brief cab or transit ride back after hours. On the practical side, arriving early is wise – expect lines to form by 11pm on weekends. The surrounding area has a few 24-hour snacks shops (like Taquerias) if you need munchies when the club ends. When it’s time to go home, note that Muni trains stop running late; many people rely on Uber/Lyft taxis outside Closing (usually around 4am) to travel downtown or to the airport. The neighborhood is generally safe to walk in pairs, but carry some cash for cabs if needed early morning. In summary, you’ll find plenty of nearby restaurants and bars for before-and-after plans, and a range of hotels from budget to luxury under a mile away.
What Makes This Venue Special
The EndUp’s charm is built from its history and personality. Architecturally, it’s a no-frills 1970s club: low ceilings, exposed walls, neon lights and that beloved waterfall fountain. It feels more like a retro candy store for club culture than a modern dance club. Unlike a polished downtown nightclub, every inch of The EndUp is steeped in decades of local lore – old flyers and graffiti tell stories of bygone eras. The cozy patio (often covered in colorful graffiti and vines) adds to this vibe; many patrons remember dancing there under hanging lights. That vintage, lived-in look is hard to find elsewhere, giving The EndUp a “South of Market speakeasy” atmosphere.
Culturally, The EndUp is an icon of San Francisco’s dance and LGBTQ+ history. It witnessed the city’s gay liberation from the 1970s onward, and it was one of the first clubs to blast disco and later house music through the Bay Area. Legendary events – everything from topless dance contests to marathon raves – became part of its legacy. Many famous DJs and drag performers got their start or built followings here. It even appears in local pop culture: for example, the PBS miniseries “Tales of the City” featured a scene inspired by The EndUp’s flamboyant parties. Through it all, the club has remained a devoted safe space: during multiple decades it kept its doors open for a diverse crowd, reinforcing its motto of inclusivity. This blend of raw, nostalgic architecture and a storied place in San Francisco’s queer and clubbing past is why both visitors and longtime locals love The EndUp. In short, it’s special because it feels like stepping into a piece of music history that’s still very alive today.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The EndUp is on one level, but the street entrance has a small step (staff can usually assist). The restroom area includes at least one ADA stall. However, not all areas are fully wheelchair-friendly, so if mobility is a concern it’s best to call ahead. Service animals are permitted. The venue strives to be LGBTQ+ inclusive and generally welcomes everyone, but if you need special accommodations (e.g. an escort or chair), mention it to staff.
What to Bring: Always carry a valid ID (21+ minimum). A small amount of cash is useful (for cover, tips, or coat check). Don’t overpack – large bags may be refused or searched. Comfortable shoes are recommended (it’s dancing after all). Many people wear casual or clubwear: there’s no formal dress code. You may also want earplugs if you’re sensitive to loud bass.
What Not to Bring: Outside food and drinks are not allowed. Professional camera gear generally isn’t permitted (cell phone photos are fine). Weapons, illegal substances, and the like of course are banned. If you plan to smoke or vape, do it on the patio – indoor smoking is prohibited by law. Avoid wearing bulky jackets into the main room (no guaranteed coat check, though a small rack may be offered).
Common Pitfalls: The biggest mistake is arriving too late: popular nights can sell out, and the line can get long by midnight. If in doubt, get in line early. Another tip: Muni transit largely stops after 12:30am, so plan your ride share or taxi pickup in advance if you stay until closing. On Sundays, the crowd peaks from 10am–2pm (during the T-Dance), so arrive early if you want a spot. There’s no official re-entry, so once you leave you’ll pay again if you come back. Finally, the club encourage respectful, open-minded behavior – harassing others or rude behavior will get you kicked out.
How can I purchase tickets for events at The EndUp?
Tickets are typically sold directly by the venue. For most nights you pay the cover at the door (cash or card). For big-name DJs or special events, The EndUp often offers advance tickets on its official site or email list. Always check the club’s announcements in advance. If a show sells out online, you can try arriving early on event night to secure any remaining tickets at the door.
What is the typical cover charge range for shows at The EndUp?
Cover charges vary by event. Regular dance nights often start around $10–$15 early in the evening, increasing after midnight. For high-demand shows or holiday parties, expect covers in the $20–$30 (or even $30–$40) range. There are rarely discounts, so plan on paying the listed cover. Check the specific event page for exact pricing.
Is seating assigned or general admission at The EndUp, and is there a VIP area?
The EndUp is essentially a general-admission dance club. There are no reserved seats on the main floor – everyone stands or dances where space allows. The only “seated” areas are the back lounge couches and the patio benches, which are first-come first-served. VIP or bottle-service tables can be arranged for groups, but these are just designated standing tables usually at the back or patio. In short, the club is predominantly standing room.
What is the address of The EndUp and how can I best get there via public transit?
The EndUp is at 401 Sixth Street (corner of Harrison) in San Francisco’s SoMa district. For public transit, the closest BART and Muni stop is Powell Street on Market – about a half-mile walk north. Alternatively, the Civic Center/UN Plaza BART/Muni station is north on Market too. Nearby Muni buses include the 6 (Haight–Parnassus) on 6th St and the 8 (Fulton) on Harrison. Late-night Owl buses (like the 90) run under Market. In practice, most people take BART to Powell or Muni to Market, then walk a few blocks south. Rideshares can drop you off on 6th Street right at the door.
Where can I park near The EndUp, and are there any parking garages or street parking?
Street parking in SoMa is limited, especially on weekends. Meters are available on nearby streets (6th, 7th, Bryant) at usual rates (~$3-$4/hr), but they fill up quickly. Paid garages close by include the city garage at 801 Bryant Street (one block north) and a private lot at 415 7th Street (three blocks east). These run about $20–$30 for an evening. Another option is the SP+ Garage at 7th & Harrison. Given the hassle, many people prefer to use Muni or rideshare instead of driving.
Is The EndUp wheelchair accessible?
The EndUp’s entrance has a small step, though staff can usually provide a portable ramp if needed. Inside, the club is on one level, and there is an ADA-accessible restroom stall. However, as an older building conversion it is not fully modern-accessible – some areas are tight. If you need assistance, it’s best to call ahead. Overall, the venue is only partially wheelchair-friendly.
What is the dress code and age requirement at The EndUp?
The EndUp enforces a strict 21-and-over rule (always carry a valid ID). As for attire, there is no formal dress code – “super casual” is the standard. Clubbers typically wear comfortable clubwear: T-shirts, pants, and sneakers are common. On themed nights or drag events, anything flamboyant goes. The key is to dress for dancing: breathable, fun, and ready to move all night.
What items are not allowed inside The EndUp?
No outside food or alcohol is allowed. Large backpacks or coolers are generally prohibited and may be refused or searched. Personal cameras (large professional gear or flash units) are not permitted without club approval; phone cameras are fine. Weapons, controlled substances, and other hazardous items are obviously banned. In short, only bring the essentials: ID, phone, wallet, and small personal items.
Does The EndUp offer coat check or lockers?
There is no formal coat-check counter advertised. On cold nights, some guests report being able to leave jackets with the door staff or at the bar, but this isn’t guaranteed and may incur a small fee. No permanent locker service exists. The best practice is to arrive light or wear layers that you can hold in the meantime. Treat coat-holding as a courtesy rather than a standard service.
Are food and drinks available at The EndUp, and can I bring my own?
Yes – The EndUp has a full bar inside serving beer, wine, and cocktails (drinks average around $10 each). Patio snacks like hot dogs or dim sum are also sold for late-night munchies. You cannot bring outside alcohol or food; all drinks must be purchased on-site. Water bottles may be allowed on entry (they might be opened for security). In short: plan to buy your drinks at the bar, and use the patio food window if you need a snack.
What are The EndUp’s operating hours on weekends?
The EndUp usually opens around 10:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, and stays open until about 4:00 AM. On Sundays it flips schedule – typically the club reopens around 6:00 AM (for the famed Sunday T-Dance) and runs until afternoon (around 2:00–4:00 PM). Hours can vary for special events or holidays, so check the specific event for exact times.
What time should I arrive before a big show to avoid missing it?
For big name DJs or events, arrive early to secure entry. Doors often open at 10:00 PM, but popular nights draw crowds quickly. It’s wise to get in line an hour or more before kickoff (aim for 9–10 PM on Fridays/Saturdays). Similarly, for Sunday T-Dance parties, fans begin lining up around 4–5 AM. In general, plan to arrive well ahead of main acts or after-midnight hours to avoid long entry lines.
Is photography allowed inside The EndUp, or are cameras restricted?
Casual smartphone photos are generally allowed, but the club discourages professional camera equipment. If you want to snap a selfie or group pic with your phone, that’s fine. Avoid using flash, as it can disturb others on the dance floor. Large cameras, video crews, or strong lighting setups usually need prior permission – in practice, just use your phone quietly and respect fellow dancers’ privacy.
What is the famous Sunday “T-Dance” at The EndUp?
The Sunday “T-Dance” is The EndUp’s legendary after-hours party. Originating in the ’70s as a late-morning “tea dance,” it now starts around 6:00–7:00 AM on Sunday and runs into the afternoon. The music is usually a friendly mix of house and disco by multiple DJs. The T-Dance attracts a vibrant, often shirtless crowd that’s been dancing all night. It’s become a weekly SF tradition – a marathon rave where weekend warriors celebrate the city’s gay dance culture until the sun sets again.
Has The EndUp ever been featured in any TV shows or movies?
Yes – The EndUp has had its cultural moments on screen. It’s referenced in Armistead Maupin’s “Tales of the City,” and the 1993 PBS miniseries even shot a club scene inspired by The EndUp (though filmed elsewhere). In local media it’s often highlighted as an SF icon. However, there’s no famous Hollywood movie filmed inside. Still, its pop-culture lore and reality-TV mentions (nightlife shows, etc.) cement its legendary status.
Can I rent or book The EndUp for a private event?
Yes. The EndUp can be booked for private parties or corporate events. Contact the club staff to discuss date availability and pricing. They offer bottle-service tables and can sometimes close down the venue for a large group (usually with a minimum drink spend). In practice you’ll negotiate a package directly with management – the club handles everything on-site.
Why is The EndUp considered an iconic venue in SF’s LGBTQ+ history?
The EndUp has deep roots in SF’s queer scene. As one of the city’s longest-running gay disco nightclubs (founded by a gay entrepreneur in 1973), it provided a home for LGBTQ+ dancers through the decades. It hosted countless community events, fundraisers and the annual after-hours Pride parties. Its wild Sunday “tea dances” became legendary in the gay culture. Over time it became a symbol of acceptance and celebration; even today many LGBTQ+ locals say it feels like a safe, familiar home base. This legacy of inclusivity and activism is why people regard it as more than just a club – it’s a piece of the city’s LGBTQ+ heritage.
How many people can The EndUp hold (capacity), and is it indoor only?
The EndUp’s occupancy is fairly small – roughly 150–200 people at most (including both the dance floor and patio). In practical terms, once the main room is filled the vibe is packed. The space includes an indoor area and a connected outdoor patio, so it isn’t strictly “indoor only.” About half the customers may spill out onto the patio (covered by a roof). Still, the club itself is primarily indoors, with the patio acting as the lounge area.
Are there any accessibility services (e.g., for deaf or blind patrons)?
The EndUp does not advertise specific accessibility services beyond the basics. There is one wheelchair-accessible restroom stall. The club does not have sign-language interpreters or visual aids for performances. Deaf patrons often use personal hearing protection, and blind patrons may need assistance navigating in low light. Staff are generally willing to help individuals with special needs, but the venue does not provide formal accessibility accommodations beyond what California law minimally requires.
Are patrons allowed to re-enter the venue after leaving?
Generally, The EndUp does not allow free re-entry once you’ve left. If you exit (for example, to smoke or step outside), you will usually need to pay the cover again to get back in. This helps the club enforce ID checks and capacity. There may be rare exceptions for special passes, but you should assume that once you leave, you cannot re-enter without purchasing a new ticket.
