It was 1967, and nearly 100,000 young people came to the San Francisco bay area in the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood to seek change and experience growth in love, music, fashion, culture and more. Little did they know they become a major part of American history, and those that came to San Fran are still linked to the city’s vibrant city life and pulsating culture. This year marks the 50th anniversary of that epic year, so head to the City by the Bay to explore your own Summer of Love, with these seven themed activities:
1. The Summer of Love Exhibit at de Young Museum
Located in Golden Gate Park, the sleek, beautiful de Young Museum is the fifth-most visited museum in the U.S., hosting 1.4 million visitors a year. The expertly curated Summer of Love: Art, Fashion and Rock 'n' Roll exhibit features colorful iconic rock posters, fashion & textiles, psychedelic art, personal artifacts and interactive light and music shows. Come for the day and start at the exhibit, but make sure to get a glimpse of the stunning view from the observation deck of the Hamon Tower, relax in the sculpture garden and explore other floors of more than 27,000 pieces of art from around the world. Summer of Love Exhibit runs until August 29th.
Truly a unique experience, spend an afternoon with one of the funniest, most energetic tour companies ever, In authenticVWBugs, complete with shag carpeting, colorful vinyl and tie-dyed ceilings. Owned by a local San Franciscan, Allen Graves, and choose from sightseeing tours, private tours or your own charter service.
3. The California Historical Society
An iconic figure of the '60s and '70s, Peter McNally guest curated the special exhibit at The California Historical Society called “On the Road to the Summer of Love.” Featuring everything from several never seen-before photos to a full sheet of acid, the intimate space is a must for anyone wanted to learn and see more about the iconic times and figures of the summer of love.
San Franciscans are getting in on the Summer of Love action, with unique stays to enhance your experience. Some of our favorites:
- The St. Regis San Francisco is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Summer of Love with an exclusive offer that includes daily breakfast, two tickets to the Summer of Love: Art, Fashion, and Rock 'n' Roll exhibit at the de Young Museum, couples massage with aromatherapy bath and robes.
- The Palace Hotel Summer of Love package includes a one-night stay in luxury accommodations, a welcome cocktail for two in the Pied Piper, and complimentary Wi-Fi/HSIA in your room. The hotel is decked out in retro bouquets of flowers inspired by the colorful culture of the '60s.
- Fairmont San Francisco is offering 20% off stays along with a Summer of Love Welcome Gift.
5. Summer of Food & Drinks
What’s not to love about a Summer of Love cocktail, food and decadent desserts? Head over to one of our favorite eateries, E & O Kitchen and Bar and join in on the summer of love festivities. Try the Guava Lamp Cocktail, made with New Amsterdam Gin, guava juice, soda water, a splash of triple sec, and ice. Invite some friends for the Inew Summer of Love happy hour group dining packages.
6. Presidio
Unique to the bay area, the Presidio is a national park and former military fort located on the northern tip of the city, bordered by the Golden Gate Bridge and on the weekends is home to families, pets, food trucks, fun and more. Come lay out on the lawn and grab a bite while people watching, or stop in to the visitors center, Officers Club at the main post. If you are feeling outdoorsy, walk or bike the miles of trails.
As the longest running musical in America, this outrageous show is a must see for anyone not only experiencing the best of what San Fran has to offer, but to catch up on current pop culture. Situated in the historic Club Fugazi in North Beach, be captivated by song, dance and innovated costumes as Snow White searches for her Prince Charming around the world.
8. Haight-Asbury Flower-Power Walking Tour
Come to the place where it all started, on the corner of Haight and Ashbury streets. Immerse yourself in vintage stores, restaurants, music stores, boutiques and bookshops that line the streets. Alamo Square is worth a visit, to check out the most-photographed Victorian homes. Also worth a look: The Grateful Dead House at 710 Ashbury and The Jefferson Airplane House at 2400 Fulton.
