Our History

Cruisin’ the Castro Walking Tours began in 1989 by local historian Trevor Hailey. By the late 1980s, she led tourists visiting San Francisco’s Castro District on an amazing trek through LGBTQ history. Thru the years, Trevor became the “Orator” of the Castro community. In 1997, Trevor requested that Mayor Willie Brown install a permanent 70-foot Rainbow Flag Pole Landmark boasting a 20’x30’ flag. Since then, the flag continues to be a welcoming symbol of diversity and pride.

Upon Trevor’s retirement in 2005, local resident and professional tour guide Kathy Amendola had purchased the business that continues to thrive to this day. Kathy has many years of travel and tourism expertise, is a long-time local resident and an active member of the LGBTQ community. She’s served on several landmark projects such as the Rainbow Honor Walk and the Pink Triangle Park & Memorial. Her job over went from being a tour guide to a civil rights activist. Kathy utilizes her tours as a global platform to educate and advocate for equality and human rights. This includes individuals, LGBTQ special interest groups, diversity training for large corporations, the San Francisco Police Department and worldwide educational institutions.