Sparking the 1960s cultural movement, free-love hippies, flower children, and nomadic vagabonds gathered at two intersecting streets in the heart of San Francisco. Haight and Ashbury, known simply as "the corner," still hold a special place in the hearts of many. Let's take a closer look at this unique neighborhood and discover what makes it such a beloved destination for locals and travelers alike.

Individuality & Social Activism

During the 1960s, “flower power” was in full swing and hippies were looking for an epicenter to share radical ideas, create political change, and shape a new genre of culture that would counter the Nation’s long-held conservative values. Haight and Ashbury Streets gained worldwide fame during this time of transformation as the hub of the hippie movement. At this corner, thousands of young people flocked, seeking freedom and self-expression. 

Some came to protest the Vietnam War, others came to seek out a support system, while others came to embrace the flowering music scene. No matter the reason, Haight and Ashbury quickly became a mixing pot of young people searching for an outlet to express themselves and embrace a modern age. 

That same spirit of identity can be felt today with mind-bending shops, colorful bohemian-inspired cafes, and vibrant murals, displayed proudly on street corners and building walls. One of the most recognizable landmarks in Haight is the physical intersection of the two streets. Today, visitors can still feel the magnetic energy of the past as they stand on this historic corner.

A Landmark of Expression

Art, music, and culture are so abundant in this area, that creativity is almost palpable. Just a short walk away from the street’s corner is the awe-inspiring Haight-Ashbury mural.

This beautiful facade features depictions of musical icons like Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, and Jerry Garcia, along with drawings of psychedelic shapes and colors. This colorful mural serves as a reminder of the counterculture that defined the hippie movement and the age of social activism.

Intriguing Architecture

During the California Gold Rush, San Francisco received rapid growth, and many developers began building Victorian homes around the city. The Haight and Ashbury area in San Francisco contains many colorful and mesmerizing Victorian homes and Edwardian-style architecture. 

Many people come to visit San Francisco just to catch a glimpse of the vibrant Haight Ashbury homes lining the streets. A few of these houses in the neighborhood were home to famous rockers and bands from the 1960s and 70s. 

You can see the apartment where Jimi Hendrix, the iconic guitar jammin’ prodigy, lived for a short period. Also, check out the historic Grateful Dead House where the band lived and wrote music together. These houses embody the spirit of innovation, artistic creativity, and individualism that has long been associated with San Francisco.

Shopping and Dining

There's truly something for everyone in The Haight including vintage clothing, quirky record shops, tye-dye accessories, band merch, and crazy trinkets. Visitors can spend hours browsing through the countless treasures and souvenirs.

Due to the area’s eclectic influence, there is a wide variety of dining options when hunger strikes, including many vegan and vegetarian options. Many restaurants and cafes in the area pride themselves on using locally sourced ingredients and supporting sustainable practices.

Indulge in authentic gourmet tacos, soft, homemade brioche, American burgers and fries, or a fresh seafood salad, all options within the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood.

Preserving the Spirit of the 60s

While much has changed since the 1960s, the spirit of Haight and Ashbury lives on. Despite the influx of tourists and the gentrification of certain areas, the neighborhood has retained its bohemian vibe and sense of community.

In a city known for its innovation and progress, the Haight and Ashbury Streets serve as a reminder of San Francisco's colorful past and the values that have shaped it. What gives San Francisco, specifically Haight-Ashbury, so much character is the melting pot of residents and visitors.

People from all walks of life live and work here and the area receives quite a bit of tourism from all parts of the world. This mixture of culture and influence is what gives the Haight its unique persona and charm.

A Piece of History

Haight and Ashbury are more than just a neighborhood—it's a living, breathing piece of history with eclectic influence and intoxicating magic. Next time you find yourself in San Francisco, consider taking a stroll down Haight and Ashbury Streets and be sure to snap a few pics on the Castro Rainbow walkway to feel like a true local.

Explore San Francisco While Staying at The Grove Inn

Take your art and cultural getaway up a notch and book a night or two at the city’s best luxury accommodation. Rich in sophistication and history, The Grove Inn is a 3-story Italianate-Victorian style building constructed in 1865.

Updated and modern conveniences compliment the original Victorian features, large bay windows, and perfect San Francisco vibe. 

We invite you to be a part of our next chapter and make the Grove Inn part of your relaxing San Francisco getaway.