I need your forgiveness.

How did I not know about Hayes Valley, San Francisco? It’s everything Downtown Norcal is about: community-oriented, independent, locally owned, quality brick & mortar shopping and dining. If this were a confessional, I’d need more than rosary beads!

A native Northern Californian, I’ve always loved San Francisco. When I was young, Aunt Lassie would take me to the garment district where she’d gather textiles for her belly dancing costumes (she’s 80 and still at it!). Later there were plenty of girlfriend getaways. The apex was my “speed dating” days, not the modern matchmaking custom, but back when I was so high on my now husband, our adrenaline would cover the city in a weekend.

Then we started a family.

Twenty-two years ago I believed a baby would adapt to our lifestyle. But motherhood has a way of drawing perimeters around the deluded—actual physical barriers—until life is sculpted by everything unimaginable.

And then they grow up, leaving bewildered parents with comments like those of my adult son:  “it’s time for you to do you.” 

My brain is still rearranging itself.

For years I’ve envied others’ annual trips to the city to ring in the holidays. Three-story Christmas trees and high tea productions splashed photogenic mother/daughter traditions on social media, whereas my male-centered posts involved destruction derby-like gingerbread parties and gaming tournaments from home.

Wouldn’t trade any of it, but it’s time to listen to my son.

After a little research, I learned Hayes Valley deserved to be the focus of my first city holiday trip since giving birth. Before the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, the Central Freeway provided cover for drug deals, prostitution, and other crimes. Once the damaged roadway was removed in 1992, the neighborhood became home to thriving boutiques, restaurants, markets, and an effective neighborhood association. A 2004 ordinance strengthened the area’s commitment to small by banning retail with more than 11 locations, making Hayes Valley the only SF neighborhood with such a restriction (though other areas have partial bans).

Recently, a few corporations discovered loopholes or created subsidiaries to locate, but for the most part, Hayes Valley’s independent spirit remains intact. As consumers, we must protect it.

Since starting Downtown Norcal I’ve shopped many downtown secrets, but Hayes Valley is the most distinct. A true neighborhood experience with invested businesses, each shop compliments the next and everyone (I mean EVERYONE) welcomed me with open arms. They indulged my intrusive photography, engaged me in conversation, thanked me for coming, and even made recommendations to competitors. Easiest shopping experience to date!

So enjoy a fraction of what I found (described in pictures) and forget the throbbing crowds elsewhere. Head to Hayes Valley instead: a resurrected gem and pleasure-filled penance!