Our microguides series is inspired by the slow travel movement, encouraging travellers to relax their pace and take a deep dive into one particular neighbourhood in a well-loved city. Rather than a whirlwind itinerary which aims to hit up every must-see attraction, these compact, close-up guides encourage you to zone in, take your time and truly explore like a local. Few intersections in the US hold as much cultural gravitas as San Francisco’s Haight-Ashbury. Made famous during the 1967 Summer of Love, these two then unassuming street corners blossomed under the hippie-led “flower power” era as an estimated 100,000 youths spanning the US arrived in this suburb to spread social values and indulge their hedonism.
Haight-Ashbury would soon sprawl outwards as a psychedelic playground, with musicians including the Grateful Dead, Jimi Hendrix, and Janis Joplin citing the area’s free-thinking nature and affordable rent, among other illicit reasons, as elements that made it so attractive. Today, Haight-Ashbury remains a vibrant area and meeting point of the eclectic, and is home to colour-popping Victorian houses, quirky vintage shops, and the world’s largest independent record store. If you find yourself in San Francisco and want a taste of counterculture history, and much more besides, here’s what not to miss in the neighbourhood.
Exploring the Unique Offerings of Haight-Ashbury
What makes Haight-Ashbury truly special is its blend of culture, history, and modern-day charm. From vintage clothing stores to iconic music landmarks, this neighbourhood encapsulates the essence of the 1960s counterculture movement while also catering to contemporary tastes. Here, you can immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of San Francisco's past while enjoying the eclectic array of shops, restaurants, and parks that define the area today.
Vintage Clothing Shopping in Haight-Ashbury
Is this the best place in San Francisco to bag a pre-loved garment? More than a dozen vintage stores and thrift shops are packed into a half-mile radius on Haight Street. You can find everything from Levi’s jeans to antique jewellery. Try Relic Vintage for rare finds or go thrifting at Held Over, where treasures await at every turn!
Visiting Famous Rocker Homes
Haight-Ashbury wouldn’t exist in its current guise if it weren’t for that inadvertent spotlight placed on the neighbourhood by its hippie rockers. Music fans flock from all over the world to spend time in the area where the famous 1967 Summer of Love all began. You can’t go in, but you can see the apartment where nomadic guitar genius Hendrix lived for a short time, plus the historic Grateful Dead House where the band lived and jammed together.
Exploring Golden Gate Park
It might not run through Haight-Ashbury, but the city’s largest park has its boundaries on the edge of the district. This 1,017-acre green space stakes its claim as the third most visited park in the US. Summer concerts are often held on Robin Williams Meadow, a memorial patch for the late actor who lived in San Francisco, while the suitably named Hippie Hill sees thousands descend upon it on 20 April (or 4/20) to celebrate California’s legal right to use cannabis.
Where to Eat in Haight-Ashbury
With such a mix of cultures, it’s no surprise that this neighbourhood’s food offering has the eclecticism to match. From Caribbean tapas to pizza by the slice, there are plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds. Cha Cha Cha is a highly recommended Caribbean tapas-style restaurant, while Slice House, led by world pizza champion Tony Gemignani, is perfect for a post-bar snack!
Must-Try Restaurants
- Cha Cha Cha: Known for its Cajun garlic shrimp and paella.
- Parada 22: Offers authentic Puerto Rican dishes at great prices.
- Slice House: Famous for pizza by the slice and a variety of toppings.
Where to Drink in Haight-Ashbury
For those looking to unwind after a day of exploring, Haight-Ashbury offers a vibrant drinking scene. The Alembic is a rustic spot known for its innovative cocktails, and Magnolia Brewing, located at the site of a historic hippie hangout, serves up local brews named after iconic figures from the area. Don’t miss Trax, a welcoming dive bar popular with the local LGBT+ community!
Top Drinking Spots
- The Alembic: Trendy cocktails and a cozy atmosphere.
- Magnolia Brewing: Local craft beers with a rich history.
- Trax: Affordable drinks and a laid-back vibe.
Haight-Ashbury is not just a destination; it's an experience waiting to unfold. From its rich history to its vibrant modern-day culture, this neighbourhood captures the spirit of adventure and exploration. So, whether you’re shopping for vintage clothes, savoring delicious food, or soaking in the local music scene, Haight-Ashbury has something special for everyone!
