After a comprehensive revitalization in 1980, Hayes Valley has emerged as one of the trendiest districts in San Francisco. This transformation is evident in its upscale boutiques, innovative dining concepts, rich art scene, and bustling nightlife. The addition of contemporary condominiums to its mix of historic Victorian, Queen Anne and Edwardian homes further cemented its status as one of the most sought-after locales in the Bay Area,
You could say that Hayes Valley is a microcosm of San Francisco’s dynamic spirit, blending the old with the new, the historic with the contemporary. Its rich history, thriving arts scene, eclectic shopping, and culinary delights make it a destination that beckons exploration.
Indeed, this neighborhood bordered by the Lower Haight, Civic Center, Alamo Square, and Duboce Triangle, wants you to fully experience all that it has to offer. Whether you’re a local looking to rediscover the city or a visitor seeking an exciting new experience, these 20 things to do in Hayes Valley, SF will open your eyes to the desirability and possibility of eventually settling in this neighborhood.
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Take a bite of Hayes Valley’s culinary delights
The Hayes Valley dining scene is the seat of new chefs’ tables, ice cream shops, and cafes. Let the smell of freshly baked pasteis de nata or custard tarts lead you down a narrow downtown side street to Holy Nata. Enjoy seafood favorites at Hayes Street Grill. Or go for no-fuss local eats like Patxi’s Pizza. Exploring restaurants in Hayes Valley doesn’t just excite the palate, all that deliciousness also lifts the spirit.
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Explore the jazz scene
Hayes Valley is home to SFJAZZ Center, the largest nonprofit organization dedicated to jazz. Check out the variety of shows hosted in the 35,000-square-foot space, which includes 700-seat Robert N. Miner Auditorium and 100-seat Joe Henderson Lab. From intimate performances to full-orchestra concerts to live broadcasts, the center has a full spectrum of programs designed to deepen our appreciation and enjoyment of this American art form. Check out the latest schedule on Facebook.
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Watch a movie under the stars
At the flexible and temporary two-block community space called The Proxy, open-air movie screenings are free of charge. In the fall of 2023, it presented an eclectic lineup of films, from Billie Eilish’s coming-of-age documentary, “The World’s A Little Blurry” to the 2022 grand prize winning movie at the Cannes Film Festival, “Triangle of Sadness.” Vendors offered ice cream, hot chocolate, wine, and non-alcoholic tonic.
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Discover hidden architectural gems
Take a self-guided walking tour to uncover the neighborhood’s architectural wonders. Snap away at the brightly colored Victorian homes and be awed by the new structures showcasing the constant evolution of the neighborhood.
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Visit a purr-fect display
Inspired by England’s iconic Stonehenge, Cathenge is a multisensory “holofelinity sound-light sculpture” by San Francisco artist David Normal. Located in the park, Patricia’s Green, the display consists of six 3D-printed cat sculptures or “catoliths,” decorated with space cat-themed motifs incorporating a motion-activated sound component. The larger-than-life felines are arranged in a circle to symbolize the artist’s concept of universal cat consciousness. It’s a unique experience to add to your list of things to do in Hayes Valley SF.
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Learn from leading figures in arts and ideas
Since 1980, the San Francisco-based nonprofit, City Arts & Lectures, has been offering unique programs with leading figures in the arts and ideas. Each year, more than 50 lectures and on-stage discussions are produced, alongside unexpected performances, and film and musical events. Authors, critics, scientists, performing artists, and cultural icons from different parts of the world are among the leading lights who have been involved in the programs. They’re a rare opportunity to appreciate the arts from a wide range of perspectives.
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Enjoy a night at the opera
Make the most of your trip to Hayes Valley by securing tickets for a night at the opera. The War Memorial Opera House adjacent to Hayes Valley houses The San Francisco Opera, famous for bringing beloved operas to the stage since 1923. Now, the opera has been made more accessible with English subtitles projected above the stage.
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Attend a ballet
The War Memorial Opera House is also home to the San Francisco Ballet. Attend a performance by the dance company to witness full-scale productions of classics such as “Swan Lake” and “Nutcracker.” The timeless elegance and emotional depth of every performance will transport you to a world of beauty, passion, skill, and artistry.
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Bring out your inner child at the carnival
Loosen up and relive your childhood at the Hayes Valley Carnival. The family-friendly event is the Hayes Valley Neighborhood Association’s revival of the four-day community celebration back in the early 1900s. It features circus performances, game booths, good old San Francisco hotdogs, and ice cream. The fun-filled celebration is an opportunity for locals to bond as a community, and visitors to join in on the festivities.
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Unwind at a beer garden
Kick back and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere at one of Hayes Valley’s beloved beer gardens. Biergarten near the pocket park, Patricia’s Green, offers a great selection of German draft beer, pickles and pretzels, and filling traditional German favorites like sausages and sandwiches served in pretzel knot buns. The casual ambiance in an outdoor patio is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring the many things to do in Hayes Valley SF.
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Visit The Gate Guy
In 2014, Todd Young, more famously known as The Gate Guy, began decorating the front gate of his home with colorful art. He has completed over 100 murals and continues to do so to the delight of Hayes Valley residents and tourists. Visit his home at the 200 block of Page Street, near the corner of Page and Octavia. Take snaps for your social accounts. You might even catch the artist himself creating another work of art!
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Rollerskate in a church
You read that right. You’ll find some of San Francisco’s avid roller skaters within the walls of a 19th century church that’s been turned into a roller rink. The Church of 8 Wheels is a 120-year old abandoned church that’s as good a place as many to glide around in against a backdrop of stained-glass windows, neon lights, and disco music!
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Take a leisurely stroll at the heart of Hayes Valley
Embrace the outdoors by taking a leisurely stroll through Patricia’s Green, a charming pocket park at the heart of Hayes Valley. Let this space be your breather and enjoy the sights and amenities. The park was named after Patricia Walkup, a local activist who worked to tear down the freeway that led to the revitalization of Hayes Valley as a hip and thriving neighborhood.
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Shop for the coolest finds on Hayes Street
Hayes Valley is certainly the place to buy local. Stroll along Hayes Street and browse fine and vintage jewelry, luxury skincare products from indie brands, and purveyors of glass art, mid-century furniture, and ultracool home decor. You’ll also find sleek and avant garde couture from edgy designers like Junya Watanabe, Margiela, Walter Van Beirendonck, and Engineered Garments. The wide selection of shops makes Hayes Valley shopping worth the visit.
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Unearth a world of artistry at the district’s famous theaters
Hayes Valley is an artistic hub that houses renowned theaters such as the Sydney Goldstein Theater and The New Conservatory Theater. Visitors can choose from a diverse array of performances, including orchestral concerts, operas, musical theater, contemporary dance showcases, and spoken word events. From classical masterpieces to avant-garde experimental performances, these theaters offer a rich tapestry of artistic experiences that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
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Support local artisans
Visit the Head West Marketplace for an outdoor Hayes Valley shopping experience that consists of established local brands and small businesses. You’ll find locally sourced vintage goods, handmade ceramics, and homegrown artisans. You’ll also notice a marked preference for handmade, eco-friendly, and conscious offerings and products. It’s an ideal place to shop if you’re looking for alternatives to mass manufactured products.
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Embark on a wine walk
With San Francisco’s ranking as the sixth most walkable city in the United States and its proximity to the vineyards of Sonoma and Napa, it’s no surprise to find annual wine events in neighborhoods across the city. At the inaugural Hayes Valley Wine Walk in 2023, wine enthusiasts strolled across Linden Street and its surrounding blocks to sample the area’s most notable vintages. You, too, can also create your own wine walk by checking out the link and building your itinerary at a pace you like best.
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Go on a festive holiday stroll
More fun things to do in Hayes Valley SF await during the holidays. For more than three decades, locals and visitors have enjoyed the annual Hayes Valley Holiday Stroll. It’s an occasion to listen to carolers, see the holiday lights and decorated windows, and look forward to special treats from participating stores while strolling around the neighborhood.
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Appreciate art from a shipping container
Stop by the Hayes Valley Art Works’ converted shipping container gallery to view paintings, prints, sculpture, drawings, tote bags, and cards. Find them at the temporary gallery located at 295 Oak Street. Check out the gallery’s workshops, events, and upcoming shows on their Facebook page.
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Experience Hayes Valley nightlife
Check out some of Hayes Valley’s trendiest bars, speakeasies, and live music.venues. Sundown favorites include Afterwork Bar, an upscale sports bar; Fig & Thistle, a chic yet refreshingly unstuffy wine bar that’s now under renovation; and Anina, a cocktail bar with a spacious patio offering an impressive selection of cocktails. Whether you’re after craft drinks, live entertainment, or late-night revelry, there’s an array of options to elevate your evening.
READY TO MAKE HAYES VALLEY YOUR PERMANENT HOME?
Perhaps the allure of this captivating neighborhood has sparked a desire to call it home. If after searching the words “hayes san francisco” and seeing that the wide array of things to do in Hayes Valley SF resonate with you, then allow me, David Cunningham, to be your trusted guide on your real estate journey.
As a Bay Area native and seasoned San Francisco real estate professional, I possess an intimate understanding of the pulse of each neighborhood and the nuances of the real estate market.
My value to my clients is in my negotiation skills, my stellar reputation in the San Francisco real estate community, trusted advice, and expertise in this specialized market. I always negotiate the highest possible price for my sellers and the best possible price for my buyers.
Together, we can turn your dream of living in this wonderful neighborhood into a beautiful reality. Check out your options now. Browse Hayes Valley, SF homes for sale.
Here’s what one client said about working with me:
“Getting into the San Francisco housing market seemed like a daunting and complex process but Dave made everything so simple and easy. He is very experienced and understands the market really well, as first-time home buyers this was very useful to us since we could really trust his advice. He provided us with all the relevant information we needed plus great referrals for other vendors too. He is extremely patient and was always available to answer our questions no matter how big or small. We strongly recommend working with him.”
For a free consultation, call 415.244.4799 or contact me here so I can help you successfully navigate San Francisco’s competitive real estate market!