I have “it’s complicated” type of relationships with San Francisco. It was love from the first sight 20 years ago. Then as we got closer and learned more about each other, pure love turned into “It’s complicated”.
San Francisco is my sister’s favorite place in the worlds. She moved there 15 years ago and most likely she will stay there through forever. I have no choice, but learn to love it again.
As my sister said “if you truly love San Fran, you need to love it all, with it’s homeless people, pee smell and noise.” So, I’m starting a new series of posts here, “Learning to love San Francisco again “. Every time I come to San Francisco, I will try to see new district and write about it.
Guide to San Francisco neighborhoods.
San Francisco is a city that is divided into several neighborhoods, each with its unique charm and personality. The following are brief descriptions of some of the popular neighborhoods in San Francisco
Alamo Square
This neighborhood is famous for its iconic row of Victorian houses known as the “Painted Ladies,” which can be seen in many movies and TV shows. Alamo Square is also home to several parks and a variety of restaurants and cafes.
Castro
This neighborhood is known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ community and rich history. It is home to the Castro Theatre, which screens classic and indie films, as well as many bars, restaurants, and shops.
Chinatown
San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest in North America and one of the largest in the world. It is a bustling neighborhood with numerous shops, restaurants, and historic sites.
Civic Center
This neighborhood is the governmental center of San Francisco and features many government buildings, including City Hall. It is also home to several museums, theaters, and the San Francisco Opera.
Cow Hollow
This neighborhood is known for its upscale shopping and dining options, as well as its scenic views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Diamond Heights
This residential neighborhood is known for its hilly terrain and stunning views of the city. It is a quiet and peaceful neighborhood with several parks and hiking trails.
Dogpatch
Dogpatch is laid-back and artsy neighborhood that is characterized by its colorful street art, trendy cafes, and eclectic boutiques. The neighborhood was once a working-class district that was home to factories and warehouses, but it has undergone a revitalization in recent years and has become a hub for creatives and entrepreneurs.
Embarcadero
This waterfront neighborhood is known for its scenic views of the Bay Bridge and the San Francisco Bay. It features several parks, piers, and the iconic Ferry Building, which houses numerous shops and restaurants.
Financial District
This neighborhood is the central business district of San Francisco and features many skyscrapers and financial institutions. It is also home to several historic landmarks and the iconic Transamerica Pyramid.
Haight-Ashbury
This neighborhood is famous for its role in the counterculture movement of the 1960s and is home to several vintage stores, record shops, and alternative fashion boutiques.
Hayes Valley
This trendy neighborhood is known for its upscale dining and shopping options, as well as its public art installations and events.
Inner Richmond
This residential neighborhood is known for its diverse population and numerous parks, including Golden Gate Park and the Presidio.
Inner Sunset
This neighborhood is located next to Golden Gate Park and is known for its family-friendly vibe and excellent food options, including many ethnic restaurants.
Japantown
San Francisco’s Japantown is the largest and oldest in the United States. It is a vibrant neighborhood with numerous Japanese restaurants, shops, and cultural events.
Marina District
This neighborhood is known for its beautiful views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay. It features many shops, restaurants, and nightlife options.
Mission District
This neighborhood is known for its vibrant Latino community and colorful street art. It is also home to many trendy bars, restaurants, and cafes.
Mission Bay
Mission Bay is a modern and upscale neighborhood that was once an industrial district before it was transformed into a residential and commercial area. The centerpiece of Mission Bay is the UCSF Medical Center.
Nob Hill
This neighborhood is known for its upscale hotels, restaurants, and shops. It is also home to several historic landmarks, including Grace Cathedral and the Cable Car Museum.
Noe Valley
This family-friendly neighborhood is known for its excellent schools, parks, and playgrounds. It is also home to many trendy shops and restaurants.
North Beach
This historic neighborhood is known for its Italian-American community and its excellent restaurants, cafes, and bakeries. It is also home to many historic landmarks, including Coit Tower and the Transamerica Pyramid.
Pacific Heights
This upscale neighborhood is known for its stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay. It features many beautiful Victorian and Edwardian homes, as well as several parks and hiking trails.
