Communities
There are many exciting and culturally rich neighbourhood and communities in San Francisco. Here are some of the most notable.
Bernal Heights
Located to the south of the Mission Valley, Bernal Heights is situated atop one of the city’s characteristic hills and has the ambiance of a charming village. Its main street is Cortland Avenue and the neighbourhood is a popular first choice for families. Bernal Heights was originally part of the Rancho de las Salinas y Potrero Nuevo, and is named after Jose Cornelio de Bernal, who originally received the land from the Mexican government. It is now home to a number of ethnic restaurants and great shops.
Cole Valley
Situated near the Haight, Cole Valley has retained its small-town flavour. Many of the area’s residents are young professionals or young families and small mom-and-pop stores dot the streets. There are a number of outstanding cafes and chic restaurants, and the comedy spot where Dana Carvey and Robin Williams performed is still there.
The Mission
Another noteworthy neighbourhood is The Mission. Traditionally the Latino section of San Francisco, it is now an eclectic mix of thrift stores, ethnic restaurants and cafes. The 24th Street section is the heart of the community, and is home to the Brava Theater Center, and the Mission Cultural Center for the Latino Arts, where visitors can enjoy Latin movies or take dance lessons.
Nob Hill
One of San Francisco’s most famous neighbourhoods, Nob hill borders on the famous Huntington Park. The community can trace its origins back to the days of the California gold rush and the neighbourhood is dotted with historical landmarks, like the Flood Mansion and the Fairmont Hotel. There are many cafes and shops to enjoy, since the area is adjacent to Chinatown, residents and tourists can explore the nearby Buddhist temples and great Chinese restaurants.
Noe Valley
One of the city’s most popular residential neighbourhoods, the streets of Noe Valley are lined with charming Victorian homes and trendy cafes. Secure in its identity as a middle-class community, the Noe Valley is a great place to call home.
The Haight
Probably the city’s most famous neighbourhoods, nothing says tie-dye and psychedelia like the name Haight-Ashbury. Long gone are the love beads and the hippies, replace by high-end cafes and fashionable boutiques. The community is divided into two areas: The Upper Haight , which is the area’s commercial district, and the lower Haight, which is a haven for music lovers and DJs.
It’s a great place to shop or just hang out and is one of San Francisco’s most popular tourist destinations.