Haight Travel Guide

Explore Haight, San Francisco's vibrant neighborhood known for its culturally important attractions, scenic natural views, delicious food, and unique shopping spots with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Haight

Located in San Francisco’s Bay Area, Haight is a picturesque and vibrant neighborhood known for its rich history, unique subcultures, and scenic beauty. Often referred to as “The Haight,” it was the epicenter of the hippie counterculture movement in the 1960s and home to some of the most notable cultural landmarks and museums in the area.

In this comprehensive travel guide to Haight, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your next trip to this vibrant neighborhood. From its culturally important attractions to scenic outdoor adventures, delicious food, and unique shopping spots, we’ve got you covered.

List of Places to Visit in Haight

Here are some of the must-visit places in Haight that you should definitely add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. The Red Victorian Bed & Breakfast: A historic building that was once a boarding house for San Francisco’s bohemian community. It now hosts a cultural center, a Cafe, and a performance space.

  2. The Haight-Ashbury District: Home to the iconic “Summer of Love” festival in 1967 and the emphasis of the hippie counterculture movement. Take a stroll down this historic street to explore unique shops and landmarks.

  3. The San Francisco Art Institute: One of the country’s top art schools that has played host to some of the most culturally significant artists in modern history. It’s location on Chestnut Street gives it a unique perspective of the bay area.

Natural Attractions of Haight: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Buena Vista Park: One of San Francisco’s oldest parks, it offers stunning views of the city’s skyline, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the Pacific Ocean.

  2. Mount Sutro: A nearby hill that’s popular with hikers and bikers and provides stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas.

  3. Hippy Hill: A small park surrounded by historic Victorians homes, Hippy Hill attracts visitors and locals alike. It’s a perfect spot to relax, enjoy good food, and people-watch.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Haight

For those who enjoy the outdoors, Haight has several hiking and biking routes that offer stunning views of the city’s natural beauty. Here are some of the best trails:

  1. The Wiggle: A popular biking route that winds through the neighborhoods of Haight and offers picturesque views of the city.

  2. The Coastal Trail: A scenic hiking trail that leads from Sutro Baths to the Golden Gate Bridge. It provides stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Marin County.

  3. The Buena Vista Park Trail: A beautiful trail that circles Buena Vista Park and offers stunning views of the city’s skyline.

Best Things to Do in Haight: Activities and Tours

In addition to its museums, natural beauty, and scenic trails, Haight offers plenty of activities and tours for visitors. Here are some of the best things to do in Haight:

  1. The Haight-Ashbury Free Walking Tour: A guided walking tour that takes visitors through the history of the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood and its significant cultural landmarks.

  2. The Mural Tour: A self-guided tour of Haight’s vibrant murals. It’s a perfect way to explore the neighborhood while appreciating the works of talented local artists.

  3. The Haight Street Fair: A yearly festival that celebrates the neighborhood’s history and culture. It’s a perfect time to explore the neighborhood’s unique shops and enjoy live music and food.

Week-Long Itinerary for Haight

Here’s our suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Haight:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the Haight-Ashbury District and the Red Victorian Bed & Breakfast
Day 2 Hike the Coastal Trail and enjoy the city’s natural beauty
Day 3 Discover the San Francisco Art Institute and its beautiful views
Day 4 Take the Haight-Ashbury Free Walking Tour and explore some of the neighborhood’s unique shops
Day 5 Bike The Wiggle and experience the city from a unique perspective
Day 6 Visit the Buena Vista Park and enjoy stunning views of the city’s skyline
Day 7 Relax and enjoy Hippy Hill and the vibrant food scene of Haight

Food and Drink Scene of Haight

Discover the flavors of Haight, and fulfill your taste buds with these must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. The Haightburger: A classic burger with a unique twist, it’s a local favorite.

  2. The Wingnut: Vegan wings with plenty of flavors.

  3. The Hangover Bowl: Satisfy your cravings with this perfect bowl of comfort food to help ease the pain.

Local Beverages

  1. Haight Street Ale: A local beer that’s brewed in the heart of Haight.

  2. Haight Street Whiskey: A whisky blend that’s perfect for those looking for a unique drink.

  3. The Full Moon Ritual: This magical elixir will fill your soul with goodness and energy.

Where to Stay in Haight: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several options for accommodation in Haight, from luxury hotels to charming guesthouses and hostels. Here are some of the best-

  1. The Red Victorian Bed & Breakfast: A historic building that’s been converted into a unique bed & breakfast.

  2. The Haight Ashbury Hostel: A vibrant and friendly hostel located in the heart of the Haight-Ashbury District.

  3. The Parker Guesthouse: A charming guesthouse with beautiful views of the Golden Gate Park.

What to Buy in Haight: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Haight has a unique shopping scene with plenty of shops selling locally made products, unique souvenirs, and vintage items. Here are some of the best places to shop in Haight:

  1. Amoeba Music: One of the city’s most well-known record stores, Amoeba Music stocks a wide range of music from all genres and offers plenty of unique finds.

  2. Love On Haight: A shop that’s dedicated to the power of love, you’ll find unique souvenirs with a hippie twist in here.

  3. Haight Ashbury Tattoo & Piercing: Get a piercing or a tattoo to remember your trip to Haight from this shop that’s been in the neighborhood for over 25 years.

Local Culture and Customs of Haight

Haight is a vibrant and culturally diverse neighborhood. It’s essential to respect local traditions and culture while visiting Haight. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Be respectful of the neighborhood’s social and political past.

  • Haight locals are friendly and welcoming, so it’s essential to be polite.

  • Using the term “Hippie” isn’t always well received by Haight residents.

  • Respect privacy, in particular, when taking pictures of Haight resident houses.

Best Time to Visit Haight

The best time to visit Haight is during the late spring or early fall when the weather is mild and the crowds are a bit lighter. The summer season attracts a bit more crowd in the Neighborhood due to festivals, fairs, and concerts.

Do’s and Don’ts of Haight

Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind during your trip to Haight:

Do:

  • Do visit the Red Victorian Bed & Breakfast and the Haight-Ashbury District for an insight into the neighborhood’s rich cultural heritage.

  • Do enjoy the beautiful outdoor spaces and natural beauty of the region.

  • Do try the local cuisine and sample some of the unique beverages and dishes.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter the neighborhood and be mindful of the ecosystem.

  • Don’t smoke in crowded public places or near children.

  • Don’t be too loud or aggressive in behavior while exploring the neighborhood.

Safety and Health

As with any city, visitors should take precautions to ensure their safety while in Haight. Here are some tips to help you stay safe and healthy during your trip:

Safety in Haight

  • Stay vigilant while exploring the neighborhood, watching out for pickpockets or other hazards

  • Be cautious of unsolicited invitations and requests by street vendors or other strangers.

  • Avoid walking alone at night, particularly in areas with little light.

Health in Haight

Haight is a safe and healthy neighborhood that caters to various lifestyles. However, it’s essential to stay hydrated and maintain regular intake of fresh food as it’s essential during outdoor adventures.

Getting to Haight: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are some transportation options to help you get to Haight:

Airports Near Haight

  • San Francisco International Airport: It’s only 12 miles from Haight, and it’s easily accessible by public transportation.

  • Oakland International Airport: It’s 20 miles from Haight, and it’s easily accessible by a rental car or public transportation.

Bus Stations Near Haight

  • Greyhound Bus Station: Located in Downtown San Francisco, it’s only 2.5 miles from Haight and easily accessible by public transportation.

  • Transbay Terminal: It’s also located in Downtown San Francisco and easily accessible by public transportation.

Other Options

  • Car Rentals: Car rentals are readily available in San Francisco, and it’s a great option for visitors who want to explore the city’s many sights.

  • Ride-Sharing Services: Services like Uber and Lyft are widely available and accessible throughout San Francisco, making it easy to get around Haight.

How to Get Around in Haight

The easiest way to get around Haight is on foot or by bicycle. It’s very pedestrian-friendly and features plenty of bike lanes throughout the neighborhood. Several public transportation options are available as well, including buses and trains, and ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft is also widely available.

Where to Go Next from Haight: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Once you’ve completed your trip to Haight, there’s plenty of nearby destinations that you could explore, such as :

  • The Golden Gate Park with its stunning Gardens and Recreational facilities

  • The Presidio with its breathtaking views of San Francisco Bay, hiking trails, and historic sites.

  • The quaint and charming neighborhood of Noe valley that’s filled with vibrant cafes and boutiques.

Conclusion

Haight is undoubtedly one of the most vibrant and culturally important neighborhoods in San Francisco. From its rich history and culture to its natural beauty and unique shopping spots, there’s plenty to explore and discover. We hope that this comprehensive tour guide of Haight helps you plan your next trip to this stunning neighborhood.

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