Castro District Castro St. between 16th and 17th Sts.
Known for its largely gay and lesbian population, the Castro District hosts boutiques, bookshops, bars, and colorful old Victorian homes, as well as one of the last grand movie palaces of the 1920s–the Castro Theatre.
Chinatown
Grant Ave., between Bush and Washington.
This is the cultural mecca of San Francisco’s Chinese residents. Exploring its many shops and restaurants, as well as the Woh Hwi Yuen peace garden, will give visitors a taste of the Orient. Call the Chinese Culture Center for information and tours, (415) 968-1822.
Haight-Ashbury Haight St. near Golden Gate Park.
Visit the famous hotbed of the 1960’s hippie movement. Now capitalizing on its psychedelic past, shops here are filled with books, music, memorabilia and vintage clothing.
Marina District Van Ness at Lombard
Visit the Marina Green for fun in the sun and spectacular views of the Golden Gate and Bay. Nearby Chestnut Street teems with shops and cafes.
North Beach Broadway at Columbus Ave.
This traditionally Italian neighborhood is known for its bookstores, including the famous beatnick hangout, City Lights. Have an espresso and sample some gelato or pastry at one of the many chic cafes. The North Beach Museum, at 1435 Stockton Street, chronicles the history of this culturally rich area. Nightlife still echoes the risqué flavor of the City’s bawdy Barbary Coast days.
Union Street Lined on both sides with old Victorian homes remodeled into unique boutiques, galleries, stores and restaurants for several blocks between Gough and Divisadero Sts., Union Street offers hours of delightful shopping and dining.
Union Square Bordered by Stockton, Geary, Powell & Post Sts.
A shopper’s fantasy, the square is surrounded by large department stores such as Macy’s and Sax Fifth Avenue, as well as specialty shops such as FAO Schwarz and Tiffany.
