Of all San Francisco neighborhoods, Haight-Ashbury has the most remnants from the past, where tie-dye was the collective uniform and spliffs were dietary staples. A lot has changed since then, but you can still feel—and smell—the spirit of the hippie-culture floating through the Haight. No matter if you are looking for old vintage shops or hip new restaurants, Haight Ashbury is a San Francisco original.
PLAY
Listen to the music
Music has always been a huge part of Haight-Ashbury. Think of all musicians from the '60s who lived here – Janis Joplin (112 Lyon), the Grateful Dead (710 Ashbury Street), and more. Stop for a second and enjoy the tunes from local street musicians.
Hike Buena Vista Park
Did you know that Buena Vista Parks is San Francisco’s oldest park? Hit the stairs on Buena Vista's east or west entrance and escape the city bustle for a second. You will find yourself in the middle of a forest with spectacular city views.
Corner of Haight & Ashbury
Yes, you need a picture on this corner. If you parents were hippies back in the '60s, this intersection should mean a lot to them.
SHOP
This shop is a paradise for every hat lover. Dive in and find your perfect head covering. From fedora to flatcar, they have it. While browsing fancy hats, enjoy some complementary popcorn made freshly in the old-school circus popcorn maker. We like! 1446 Haight
Wasteland has a great selection on unique old pieces as well as chic new styles. Bonus: The space is huge and, unlike many other vintage stores, it has a nice airy atmosphere. 1660 Haight
Shoes! Shoes! Shoes! This rustic shop has a great selection great brands, like Salt Water Sandals, Dr. Scholl, New Balance, Jeffrey Campbell, Clarks, and more. Check out their sale selection for great deals. 1553 Haight
Looking for that old LP from yesteryear? At Amoeba Music they can help you figure out the title of that '70s earworm. We prefer to think of them as analog Shazam. 1855 Haight
Need that Top Gun jacket or the perfect Scarlet O’Harra dress? Better start browsing the racks of Decades of Fashion. Get lost in the most amazing vintage clothes collection San Francisco has to offer. 1653 Haight
BOOKS
Despite Amazon, San Francisco was able to save some of its local bookstores where you enter a world of book piles, neighborly conversations, and reading nooks. At Booksmith you can find all this and a little bit more. 1644 Haight
EAT
With hipster vibe and beautiful patio for wine drinking and cheese nibbling, Sparrow is the latest culinary addition to Haight Street. Innovative menu made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients makes Sparrow a perfect spots for brunch, lunch or dinner. 1640 Haight
You have probably heard of Magnolia on Haight. This brewery and restaurant combination has been center of attraction for a while now. Taste different beers, eat some juicy burgers and make new friends,. It doesn’t get much better then this on a Friday evening. 1398 Haight
Your taste buds will dance for joy when the waiter spreads out all the delicious, Caribbean inspired tapas you have ordered. Bring time and bring appetite with you. 1801 Haight
This in-door marketplace hosts five food vendors and if functioning as an event space for music acts, art exhibitions and gathering place. Great for a quick bite and short breather. 1727 Haight
We'd like to think Haight Street is the place where Ben & Jerry’s was born. Unfortunately it’s not, but they do go so well together. 1480 Haight
For everyone who is on a budget or pressed for time, Haight Street Market is the best option. Made in-house HSM has one of the best delis in San Francisco. Choose from sandwiches, over salads to meat balls and enjoy it on the patio in front. Great spot for people watching. 1530 Haight St
DRINK
This classic SF bar has been around for decades and has seen all sorts of clientele, from hippie to hipster everyone is here for some solid, good old solid cocktails. Their signature cocktail: the martini. 1633 Haight St
Hand-crafted, unique cocktails, beer on tap, good food and rustic vibe is what makes this place a must stop when in Haight Ashbury. Sit at the bar and learn some tip & tricks about cocktail shaking. 1725 Haight St
If you are in a need of some live music, comedy acts, and drinks, Milk Bar is the place to go. 1840 Haight
Photo by Lorenzo Montezemblo
In the past it was dark and trashy; today it's loungy and hip. The new Murio’s is great for cocktails at after works hours or nightcaps on the weekend. Play some jukebox or win at the pool table. 1811 Haight
Photo via Quite Lightning
Opened in 1989, Club Deluxe was the places of jazz revival in the '90s. This intimate spot hosts weekly jazz acts, comedy shows and monthly burlesque performance to escape the mainstream charts and dive into the swing era. 1511 Haight
