60s San Francisco Travel Guide
Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, Jefferson Airplane and many more musicians flocked to the Haight Ashbury area of San Francisco in 1967. Why? Something ‘groovy’ was happening. Endless parties, drugs and music flooded the streets while free health clinics were being set up in the name of Love.
Even though we couldn’t make it during the Summer Of Love, we can still experience a slice of what was left behind. Here’s the ultimate guide to carousing in what Hunter S Thompson dubbed as ‘Hashbury’.
Music
Rasputin music was founded in 1971 and quickly set up a number of independent stores including this one spot on Haight Street. They sell vinyl, CDs and put on a good show every now and again.
http://www.rasputinmusic.com/
Chill
One of the most iconic places to put your feet up and watch the day go by is on the green of Hippie Hill. Untouched since the ’60s, this was the place to come smoke, have a laugh and watch the sunset. It still gets a huge amount of visitors who come to recreate those forgotten days.
Golden Gate Park
Attraction
The communal home and hangout of ’60s band The Grateful Dead still stands in all its colourful joy. Although someone else lives there (the cheek!), the artwork and building still reside for a perfect photo opportunity.
710 Ashbury St.
Books
The City Lights bookstore was born out of the Beat Generation and arguably inspired the ‘artsy’ generation of hippies. The store still sells political reads and poetry.
http://www.citylights.com/
Bar
During the ’60s many would have drunk in the street, but there are still many bars that are still open from that era. One is the North Star Cafe- a dive bar and one of the oldest drinking vessels in the area.
560 Powell St.
Shop
With many boutiques and emporiums on Haight Street, it’s hard to choose where to spend your money. This shop, in particular, plays only Grateful Dead music and has visions of keeping the Hippie dream alive. Fulfill all your tye dye dreams here.
https://loveonhaightsf.com/
Hotel
A hotel that’s steeped in rock n roll history and famous guests is the Phoenix Hotel. The retro hotel has attracted the likes of Blondie, Kurt Cobain and even JFK. Just ask the staff for some stories, and you’ll never want to leave.
http://www.phoenixsf.com/
Food
El Faro has been dishing up a delish, classic Mission burrito since they opened in the ’60s. It’s a firm favourite for foodies who travel far and wide just for a taste.
82 1st St
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Sunday Dinner Jazz