Thank you for viewing our listing! Please be sure to read our FAQ, which will answer most common questions, before reaching out with an inquiry or booking request. **Members of our social club receive up to 50% off private rentals in addition to many other perks. Inquire with the host for more information and how to apply. ______________ The Academy SF is a one-of-a-kind, LGBTQ+-owned private club and event venue in the heart of San Francisco’s Castro District. Spanning multiple levels across two connected buildings, it blends refined design with a relaxed, welcoming vibe—offering a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces perfect for unforgettable gatherings. From the Main Lounge with its 12-foot ceilings, custom blackjack table, and rotating local art, to the upstairs Club Level with hidden Champagne Room, every corner is thoughtfully curated. Downstairs, a cozy Speakeasy accessed through a bookshelf door features a vintage bar, fireplace seating, and direct access to the heated Garden Terrace with fire pits and designer outdoor furniture. A limited in-house food menu is available, or work with trusted catering partners for something more robust. Beverage service is exclusive, with bar packages featuring craft cocktails, fine wines, beer, and non-alcoholic options. With ambient lighting, flexible layouts, and capacity for 10 to 250 guests, The Academy is ideal for weddings, fundraisers, corporate events, and celebrations with style. Located just steps from Muni and public transit, it's as accessible as it is unforgettable. ——————— SPACES INCLUDED IN THIS LISTING: TOP FLOOR "CLUB LEVEL" Perched on our top floor, The Club Level offers a refined, vintage-inspired setting perfect for intimate gatherings, private celebrations, or sophisticated soirées. This premium lounge features three distinctive rooms—a moody tasting room bar, a stylish game room, and a richly appointed club lounge—each connected by a stunning hallway adorned with crystal-and-brass pendant lighting, elegant trimwork, and glamorous local artwork. Classic herringbone floors and graceful crown moulding elevate the space’s timeless charm. For an extra touch of intrigue, a hidden Champagne Room lies behind a secret door, offering a dazzling and intimate escape for VIP toasts or whispered conversations. Let your next gathering shine with the elegance, mystery, and character of the Club Level. MAIN FLOOR Tucked away discreetly behind a street-facing barber shop, our stunning 1,200 sq ft Main Level features two distinct rooms perfect for a variety of private events. Highlights include a custom blackjack table, beautiful hardwood floors, rotating artwork by acclaimed local artists, and multiple lounge areas furnished with designer pieces. With soaring 12-foot ceilings and a full A/V and sound system, the space offers both elegance and versatility. Optional add-ons include access to our Outdoor Garden Courtyard and hidden basement Speakeasy—please inquire for availability and pricing. BASEMENT SPEAKEASY Step behind a hidden bookshelf and descend into this cozy underground lounge, where a 1920s-inspired vibe meets modern comfort. With exposed wood beams, industrial concrete and hardwood floors, and intimate ceiling heights, the space feels both secretive and stylish. Three connected lounge areas wrap around a custom vintage bar, complete with a fireplace nook, game corner with dartboard, Sonos sound, moody lighting, and curated local art—perfect for sipping cocktails and escaping the ordinary. Ideal for groups of up to 20 seated or 30 standing, with optional access to the adjacent outdoor garden terrace for a seamless indoor-outdoor experience. OUTDOOR GARDEN TERRACE This lush, secluded garden oasis features a Brazilian Ipe deck, two fire pits, overhead heaters, ambient lighting, and built-in speakers—ideal for soaking in a beautiful San Francisco day or evening. Shielded from wind and distractions, the space feels private, inviting, and effortlessly stylish. For added flair, pair the terrace with the adjacent Speakeasy, featuring a private bar, restroom, and cozy seating. ——————— ADDITIONAL SPACE BREAKDOWNS AVAILABLE (message host to inquire about availability): MAIN LEVEL: https://www.peerspace.com/pages/listings/59835fed4e3b47be01c92746 OUTDOOR GARDEN TERRACE: https://www.peerspace.com/pages/listings/5cf81b06d40c58001ca6e0d8 BASEMENT SPEAKEASY: https://www.peerspace.com/pages/listings/59f8ad6ee65cfeae01905799 CLUB LEVEL: https://www.peerspace.com/pages/listings/5e334479bf21f2000d05e3c4 ——————— INCLUDED IN BOOKING RATE ❧ All required venue staff (additional may be necessary for special requests) ❧ Exclusive private access to all spaces listed ❧ Three private all-gender restrooms Full use of the Main Floor ❧ Standing up to 50 ❧ Seating up to 25 ❧ 70" Television in Parlor-Lounge ❧ Mounted roll down projection screen/mounted projector ❧ Sonos sound system ❧ Custom blackjack table (staffed w/ professional dealer upon request, $100/hr; availability not guaranteed) Full use of the Basement Speakeasy ❧ Accessed through a hidden bookshelf ❧ Standing up to 25 ❧ Seating up to 15 ❧ Custom-made Bar (bartender & beverage packages additional cost) ❧ Fireplace sitting area ❧ Sonos sound system ❧ Unique seating and lighting ❧ Cool "underground" atmosphere ❧ Private 700 square feet ❧ Outdoor side patio (w/ additional cost, before 10pm) ❧ Cozy ceilings ❧ Industrial concrete & hardwood floors ❧ Wood beams ❧ Reclaimed wood feature wall ❧ One-of-a-kind local artwork ❧ Dart board ❧ Cocktail seating / tables Full use of the Outdoor Terrace ❧ Standing up to 50 ❧ Seating up to 30 ❧ 2 Fire pit sitting areas ❧ 2 Heated deck sitting areas ❧ Overhead cafe lights ❧ Designer outdoor furniture ❧ Brazilian Ipe deck ❧ Mounted electric heaters ❧ Restroom access indoors (main or lower level depending on other events) Full use of the Top Floor Club Level ❧ Standing up to 50 ❧ Seating up to 30 ❧ Sonos sound system throughout (works great with Spotify) ❧ (1) all-gender restroom The Tasting Room ❧ Plush emerald velvet banquette seating ❧ Stunning antique bar w/ black marble top ❧ Access to a secret room (seating for 6) The Game Room ❧ Seating for up to 8 ❧ Custom Dining / Poker Table (staffed w/ professional dealer upon request, $100/hr) The Club Room ❧ Seating for up to 15 ❧ Vintage 1902 Estey upright piano (live music upon request, pricing varies) ❧ Views overlooking Market Street in the heart of The Castro ❧ Leather sofa and club chairs ❧ Vintage balloon loveseat ❧ Bar cabinet / pass through nook w/ black stone tile & brass inlay Back of House (staff & vendors only) ❧ Prep area for caterers w/ sink & ample counter space ❧ No on-site kitchen ——————— ***NOT INCLUDED*** IN BOOKING RATE (inquire w/ host for full pricing & options) FOOD & BEVERAGE ❧ BEVERAGES: The venue has an exclusive contract with a beverage caterer for bar services & bartenders. Guests are *not* permitted to provide their own beverages or staff. Different package levels are available; please inquire w/ host. ❧ FOOD: Preferred vendor food catering options available. Any caterer not on the preferred list will incur an additional fee and require a separately-scheduled walk through. ——————— ADDITIONAL SERVICES OFFERED UPON REQUEST (availability not guaranteed and must be booked well in advance): ❧ Beverage catering (w/ additional required staffing) ❧ Food catering ❧ Blackjack / card dealer ❧ Drag entertainment ❧ Outdoor Garden Terrace ❧ DJ or Karaoke ❧ Photo Booth ❧ Whiskey Tastings ❧ Wine Tastings ❧ Learn How to Make Your Own Signature Cocktail ❧ Barber Services (main floor barber salon) ——————— CONVENIENCE We are located less than a block from Church St. MUNI station, with easy street parking available nearby. ——————— EXPECTATIONS PRIOR TO YOUR BOOKING Guest will set expectations w/ Host 2-weeks prior to booking. *PLEASE NOTE* due to the pandemic we have received a ton of last-minute requests. Please understand that within 1 week we will need to charge a 15% late booking fee which helps with last-minute staff scheduling, etc. ——————— FAQ Q: What are the cost components involved in hosting a private event at this space?​ A: We will provide you with a detailed, itemized proposal for your review prior to booking. Cost components are: space rental (hourly), cleaning fee, required beverage package (per person, per hour - details & options provided by host), sales tax, gratuity, plus any add-ons or entertainment provided in-house. We may also charge additional fees for outside food vendors, last-minute bookings, or other requests outside our typical offerings. Q: Can we bring our own drinks? A: Our licensing and insurance do not allow for “BYOB” and therefore this is not allowed. ​ Q: Can we provide our own staff / bartender? A: We provide all event staff including bartender, barback, front of house host, etc. If you have a friend or volunteer who would like to assist with check-in (e.g. handing out door prizes, welcoming guests, etc.) that is okay but please inform the event manager. Only venue staff and management are allowed in any back-of-house areas labeled "staff only" or "employees only". Q: Can we have our guests pay for their own drinks? A: For larger private events of more than 10 people, we are not able to allow individual drink tabs or orders. This is to ensure smooth service and a successful event for both our staff, you, and your guests. We are happy to work with you on a beverage package that suits your needs and your budget. Q: What if some of my guests do not drink alcohol? A: Not to worry! Our staff is fully prepared with options and substitutes for your alcohol-free (or low-ABV preferring) guests. During the planning process, ask about non-alcoholic beer options, zero-proof spirits, "mocktails" and more to keep all of your guests happy. Please note: all guests will be charged at the same rate as the beverage package you select. ​ Q: How about food? Do you have preferred catering vendors that you work with?  A: We have some in-house food items, as well as preferred vendors who can give you a separate quote and take care of all food-related needs. Please inquire for our preferred vendors list. If you work with an outside caterer not on our preferred vendors list or bring in outside food, we charge a $10 per person fee. We include high-end compostable disposables (plates, utensils, napkins) as part of this fee upon request. ​ Q: What about security or door staff? Do we need to provide this?​ A: We provide all necessary venue staff, including a front receptionist who will greet your guests, verify their name on the guest list, check their coat or bag (complimentary), and direct them to the space where your event is being held. If you feel for any reason that your event requires additional professional security, please let us know and we can refer you to an appropriate contractor. ​ Q:  Is there parking included, or a garage nearby?​ A: There are no included parking spots with the venue, and unfortunately, The Castro does not have a parking garage. We are located right on Market Street, and there is generally street parking available within 1-2 block radius. Of course, for any guests who will be consuming alcoholic beverages, we strongly advise taking a car service or public transportation, which is readily available outside our venue. Q:  How do vendors or personnel load-in to the venue? Is there a loading dock or designated area?​ A: There is no loading dock or designated loading zone, however, we do have a side gate on Market Street that goes to the lower level (Speakeasy or Outdoor Terrace). This can often be the easiest way to load in, depending on which space you have reserved. Street parking is available or you may temporarily double park on Market Street for quick drop-offs. Please coordinate specific arrival times with venue management, and be advised that all set-up time must be part of the hourly rentals. Your event contact can go over these requirements to ensure a smooth experience. Q:  Can I arrive early to set up for my event?​ A: Yes! Please include any needed setup time when planning your event with us, and we can be sure to have the venue ready for your arrival. Please note: all time in the venue is charged an hourly rental fee. Depending on the scope of your setup needs, this time may be at a discounted rate. ​ Q: What about music / playlist? A: We have a Sonos system that covers the whole venue. If you have a Spotify playlist you can email to us as a link, that is ideal. Please make sure it is set to public, and send to the host. Then we can load it into our system and have it ready for when you arrive. Please be aware that you will not be able to "control" the music during the event. You may work with the event manager to set an appropriate volume, shuffle or other settings, prior to the start of the event. Q: Can we have a DJ? ​ A: It depends on which space you are renting, and which other events are happening at the venue. We have an old building where sound can bleed through to each floor. Also, outdoor amplified music is not allowed. Please ask your host for details on what is possible for your event. ​ Q: Do you allow dancing? A: Only in certain areas of the venue, including the outdoor terrace (keep in mind music and volume constraints), and the Speakeasy. Generally, we are more of a cocktail lounge space, not a dance club, so please consider this when planning your event. If we are not the most suitable venue, we can definitely recommend great alternatives. ​ Q: Do you allow guests under the age of 21? A: Our licensing does permit guests under age 21, however, they will not be served alcoholic beverages per state law. Any minors (guests under age 18) must be supervised by a parent or adult guardian at all times. Our venue is not suitable for young children, and we strongly recommend childcare services in lieu of bringing kids to the venue.