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Hayes Valley Neighborhood - Profile

From Ingrid Taylar, for About.com

hayes valley© Ingrid Taylar

Hayes Valley Resources:

Hayes Valley History:

In the late 1800s, Hayes Valley was a tract of land owned by Thomas Hayes, with a park that burned down in the year City Hall broke ground -- 1872. In the early 20th century, the Western Addition area adjacent to Hayes Valley became a vibrant African American community, described sometimes as a Harlem-style renaissance in San Francisco. The neighborhood later succumbed to controversial redevelopment.

After the earthquake in 1989, a section of noisy and ugly freeway that ran through Hayes Valley was demolished. The neighborhood was reborn of the rubble and is now a thriving residential and commercial district.

Hayes Valley People:

Hayes Valley is a mix of old time residents, young professionals and families. Absinthe Brasserie and Jardiniere have two of the best bars in the city. At the same time, you'll see strollers and parents with young kids in the local shops and cafes.

Residents of Hayes Valley are protective of the Bohemian character and community ethic that still thrive. The Hayes Valley Neighborhood Association is active in local issues.

Hayes Valley Environment:

The Hayes Valley area is full of Victorian homes. There are many tree-lined streets and quiet areas off the main commercial strips. In spite of busy retail zones, on weekdays the neighborhood still feels like a sleepy enclave.

Hayes Valley borders on some areas that are considered sketchy at night, so the usual safety measures should be taken if walking in the area after hours.

For more specific information on neighborhood safety, the San Francisco Police Department has an interactive Crime Map where you can search for statistics by area and zip code.

Hayes Valley Demographics:

  • Population: 28,991
  • Median Age: 38.2
  • Largest Age Group: 25 – 34 (22.6%)
  • Households:
    • Families: 24.4%
    • Non-Family: 75.6%
    • Average Family Size: 2.99

Housing Stats:

Sources: Trulia, *US Census

Schools:

San Francisco School List - By Neighborhood

Public Transportation:

Muni Bus Routes

  • #21 Hayes
  • #47 Van Ness
  • #49 Van Ness

Maps & Trip Planners

Driving & Parking:

To the Freeway: Access 101 via Octavia Boulevard

Public Parking Garages:

  • Performing Arts: 360 Grove Street
  • Civic Center: 355 McAllister Street

Car Sharing:

  • Zip Car: Hayes Street & Franklin (Zipcar merged with Flexcar)
  • City Carshare: 50 Dr Carlton B Goodlett Place

Attractions in Hayes Valley:

Nearby Parks

  • Patricia’s Green: The Hayes Green is part of the hailed Octavia Boulevard Project. The span of green with children's playground and benches also hosts outdoor public art exhibits.
  • Golden Gate Park: Golden Gate Park is a treasure, providing green and forested sanctuary in the heart of the city. The de Young Museum, the Conservatory of Flowers and the Botanical Gardens are among the attractions in the park.
  • Alamo Square: With a view of the Painted Ladies Victorian homes and the San Francisco skyline behind them, Alamo Square is a popular place to lay a blanket and hang out with the kids or play with your dog.

Hayes Valley Sights

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