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Written by HeadTripper Harve
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Page 1 of 3  The Haight-Ashbury district of San Francisco played a unique part in the history of baby boomers. Not all baby boomers were hippies or even embraced hippiedom; but there can be little argument that mid-sixties Haight-Ashbury was a flashpoint for our generation. The attraction culminated in the Summer of Love in 1967, as throngs of teenagers flocked to the area. Peace, Love, Flower Power. Tune in. Drop out. The counterculture seems so long ago. Fast-forward 40 years, and a jaunt down Haight Street is definitely in order for baby boomers who want to reminisce about a time that has passed. You are looking for the Upper Haight, which includes an 8-block stretch on Haight Street, between Central Avenue and Stanyan Street. The distinctive Victorian buildings still line the streets--the same as they did in the 1960s. But don’t expect to find young hippies hanging out with flowers in their hair. Some old hippies can be found of course, but the feel of the neighborhood is definitely different from the days of our youth. However, it still has a unique flavor that harks back to the 60s as the smell of incense is literally in the air! Yes, a few head and smoke shops remain, however many vintage clothing stores and boutiques now inhabit the storefronts. But as you take the leisurely walk through this fabled neighborhood, you can tune into a time machine effect in your mind and have a lot of fun.  The neighborhood wakes up slowly. Cops on bicycles patrol the area getting it ready for a day of business, as they gently wake up any of the homeless who have overslept. Early-rising locals might be out taking their walks, sipping coffee at the local coffee houses, or buying their fresh produce at one of the little markets. Business during the day is mainly tourist shopping as most San Franciscans from other districts only come to the Haight in the day in search of vintage clothing. Many of the businesses do not open until about 11 am. In fact 11 am might be a good time to arrive, as parking is not specifically easy. It is street parking only, so getting there before the crowd is a good idea. Weekends especially can be crowded. |
Head Trips 
