Dna Lounge

DNA Lounge Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to San Francisco Historical Sites

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Located in San Francisco’s lively SoMa (South of Market) district, DNA Lounge has, since 1985, served as a cultural cornerstone and beacon of nightlife diversity. Renowned for its eclectic events, inclusive spirit, and innovative programming, DNA Lounge appeals to locals and visitors seeking an authentic, vibrant San Francisco experience. This guide covers everything you need to know—visiting hours, ticketing, venue layout, accessibility, event highlights, travel tips, and nearby attractions—to make the most of your night out at this iconic venue.

(DNA Lounge Official Website, Discotech, Ticket Fairy)

Origins and Historical Legacy (1985–Present)
Facility Overview and Accessibility
Visiting Hours & Ticketing
Signature and Recurring Events
Live Concerts and Special Programming
Venue Layout and Amenities
Safety, Inclusivity, and Community
Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions
Visitor FAQ
Conclusion and Recommendations
References

Origins and Historical Legacy (1985–Present)

Founding and Early Impact

DNA Lounge opened in 1985, quickly becoming a gathering spot for San Francisco’s creative, alternative, and LGBTQ+ communities. Its early years were marked by innovative programming, from live music and experimental performances to legendary afterhours parties and unique cocktails like the Flaming Dr Pepper—helping to define the city’s rave and electronic music culture.

Transformation under Jamie Zawinski

In 2000, Jamie Zawinski—prominent technologist and former Netscape programmer—acquired the club. His vision of DNA Lounge as a nexus for technology and nightlife led to the preservation of its late-night permits and a new era of tech-focused events, including CodeCon, Ignite, and BSidesSF. Celebrations for milestones like Mozilla 1.0’s release further established DNA Lounge as a haven for San Francisco’s digerati and creative thinkers.

Recognition and Community Role

DNA Lounge has garnered multiple accolades, such as SF Weekly’s “Best Dance Club” and “Best Live Music Venue.” The San Francisco Board of Supervisors designated November 22, 2010, as “DNA Lounge Day,” and the club was named a Legacy Business in 2017. These honors reflect its enduring cultural and historical significance.

Facility Overview and Accessibility

Location

375 11th Street, between Folsom and Harrison, in SoMa (Discotech). The venue is accessible by MUNI and BART (Civic Center and Powell St. stations). Paid parking lots are nearby, though public transit or rideshare is recommended due to limited street parking (Ticket Fairy).

Venue Layout

DNA Lounge’s versatile space includes:

Main Room: Central stage, full bar, wall-to-wall dance floor, balcony with panoramic views, and capacity for up to 800 guests (Indie on the Move).
Above DNA: Secondary upstairs venue with its own bar and stage, ideal for smaller shows or VIP gatherings.
Additional Spaces: Full-service 24/7 restaurant/café (DNA Pizza), multiple bars, and a retail store for merchandise.

Accessibility Features

Wheelchair Accessible: Ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
Gender-Neutral Restrooms: Available on multiple levels.
Service Animals: Welcome, in line with ADA guidelines.
Sensory Considerations: Ear protection recommended; quieter areas available upon request.

Staff are trained to assist guests with disabilities or special needs.

Visiting Hours & Ticketing

Typical Hours: 9:00 PM to 4:00 AM for club nights; earlier for concerts (all-ages shows may start at 7:00 PM).
Entry Fees: $5–$30, depending on the event; special events may cost more (Discotech).
Tickets: Best purchased in advance from the official DNA Lounge website or authorized platforms. Door sales are subject to availability.
ID Required: Age restrictions are 18+ or 21+ for most events; all-ages access for select concerts.

Signature and Recurring Events

DNA Lounge is famous for its signature nights and recurring events:

Bootie SF: World’s largest mashup dance party.
Death Guild: Longest-running goth/industrial dance night in the US.
Hubba Hubba Revue: Burlesque show fusing classic and contemporary acts.
Mother (formerly Trannyshack): Pioneering drag performances.
Bearracuda: Popular queer men’s party.
Bohemian Carnival: Circus arts and live music night.
Fog City Wrestling: Live wrestling events in a nightclub setting.

These events foster diversity and creativity, often serving as launchpads for emerging scenes.

Live Concerts and Special Programming

DNA Lounge hosts concerts spanning genres—indie rock, electronic, synthwave, metal, and more—with a mix of local and touring artists. Notable past acts include The Crystal Method, Infected Mushroom, Dead Kennedys, Lords of Acid, and many others (Ticket Fairy). The venue also hosts tech gatherings, LGBTQ+ celebrations, and themed events such as CodeCon, Bears Gone Wild, and the Kandi Go Poke Rave.

Venue Layout and Amenities

Two Stages & Four Dance Floors: Accommodate simultaneous events.
Seven Bars: Strategically placed for minimal wait times; cocktails range from $5–$10.
24/7 DNA Pizza Café: Offers pizzas (vegan/gluten-free options), sandwiches, salads, and pastries.
Bottle Service: Available by reservation.
Restrooms: Gender-neutral, regularly maintained.
Retail Store: Sells branded merchandise and memorabilia.
Streaming: Events are webcast with continuous audio and video.

Safety, Inclusivity, and Community

DNA Lounge prioritizes guest safety and inclusivity:

Professional Security: Bag checks, ID verification, and a visible staff presence.
Community Engagement: Hosts LGBTQ+ events and supports marginalized communities.
COVID-19 Response: Adapted with online events and health protocols; reopened with public health guidance in 2021.

(Ticket Fairy)

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Arrive Early: Beat lines and secure good viewing spots.
Verify Details: Check event-specific age limits, dress codes, and themes on the official site.
Public Transit: MUNI and BART are recommended; parking is limited.
Explore SoMa: Nearby attractions include SFMOMA, Yerba Buena Gardens, and Moscone Center.

Visitor FAQ

What are the typical visiting hours?
9:00 PM to 4:00 AM, varying by event.

How do I purchase tickets?
Buy online at the official website or authorized ticket platforms.

Is DNA Lounge accessible?
Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible and offers gender-neutral restrooms.

Are there age restrictions?
Most events are 18+ or 21+, but many concerts are all-ages.

Is there food available?
Yes, a full-service restaurant and café operates 24/7.

What is the dress code?
Generally casual; themed events encourage costumes.

Is there parking?
Very limited; use public transit or rideshare.

Conclusion and Recommendations

DNA Lounge remains a dynamic hub for San Francisco nightlife—blending history, culture, inclusivity, and entertainment. Whether you’re attending a dance party, live concert, or tech event, you’ll find a welcoming, energetic atmosphere. Plan ahead, verify event details, and embrace the eclectic spirit that defines this legendary venue.

For real-time updates and ticket purchases, visit the official DNA Lounge website, and consider downloading the Audiala app for exclusive alerts and offers.