Our Civic Center Motor Inn is a downtown san francisco hotel, centrally located in the heart of San Francisco’s Mid-Market District. As such we thought we should help our guests navigate our wonderful city when staying at the best cheap hotel in downtown San Francisco.  One such attraction is Hayes Valley.

Hayes Valley is a vibrant neighborhood in San Francisco, a short walk from our budget friendly hotel. Its a bohemian neighborhood that offers a range of attractions for visitors.  Here are some of the cool things to do in Hayes Valley.

Patricia’s Green: This small park is a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. It features a rotating display of public art installations, a playground, and plenty of green space to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Hayes Street: Hayes Street is the heart of Hayes Valley and is home to a variety of trendy boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. It’s a great place to grab a coffee, do some shopping, or take a leisurely stroll.

SFJAZZ Center: This stunning concert venue is dedicated to jazz and hosts a range of performances throughout the year. It’s a great place to catch some live music and experience the local arts scene.

Proxy: Proxy is an outdoor pop-up venue that hosts a range of events, from film screenings to food festivals. It’s a unique and lively place to spend an evening in Hayes Valley.

Octavia Boulevard: This wide, tree-lined boulevard is a popular spot for walking and biking. It’s also home to a number of cafes and restaurants, making it a great place to grab a bite to eat or a drink.

Alamo Square: While technically not in Hayes Valley, Alamo Square is just a short walk away and is home to the famous “Painted Ladies” Victorian houses. It’s a great spot for a picnic or a photo opportunity.

Overall, Hayes Valley is a dynamic and diverse neighborhood with plenty to see and do. Whether you’re interested in art, music, food, or just exploring the city, there’s something for everyone in Hayes Valley.

Restaurants in Hayes Valley

Hayes Valley is a foodie destination, not far from our cheap hotel in San Francisco. There is a wide range of lunch and dining options. Here are some of the best restaurants to check out in Hayes Valley:

Rich Table: This award-winning restaurant is known for its inventive Californian cuisine and cozy ambiance. It features an open kitchen, communal tables, and a tasting menu that changes regularly.

Absinthe Brasserie & Bar: This French-inspired brasserie offers classic dishes like steak frites, escargots, and mussels, as well as an extensive wine list and creative cocktails. It’s a great spot for a date night or a special occasion.

Monsieur Benjamin: This contemporary French bistro features a modern twist on traditional French cuisine, with dishes like foie gras terrine, duck confit, and steak tartare. It also has a great selection of French wines and craft cocktails.

Petit Crenn: This cozy restaurant serves up elegant, seasonal French fare with a focus on seafood. The prix-fixe menu changes daily and is designed to be shared family-style.

Souvla: This popular spot serves up modern Greek fare, with a focus on spit-roasted meats and fresh vegetables. Don’t miss the signature “Souvla sandwich” or the Greek fries with feta cheese.

Nightbird: This intimate, upscale restaurant features a tasting menu of seasonal, California-inspired cuisine, with an emphasis on local and sustainable ingredients. It’s a great spot for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.

These are just a few of the top restaurants in Hayes Valley – there are plenty of other great options to explore as well.

Shopping in Hayes Valley

Hayes Valley is a trendy neighborhood in San Francisco that is home to a variety of upscale shopping options. Here are some of the best places to shop for luxury goods in Hayes Valley:

Miette: This charming pastry shop specializes in artisanal candies and confections, as well as a selection of gourmet baked goods and French macarons.

Warby Parker: This eyewear brand is known for its stylish frames and affordable prices. The Hayes Valley location features a range of prescription glasses and sunglasses for men and women.

Marine Layer: This San Francisco-based clothing brand is known for its ultra-soft fabrics and laid-back California style. The Hayes Valley store carries a range of men’s and women’s clothing, as well as accessories and home goods.

Buck Mason: They make fashion less complicated, building each piece to last beyond a single season. Each design is a riff on an iconic American staple, combining to make a useful and effortless wardrobe.

AETHER Apparel: They design beautiful apparel that is made to be abused, that protect you from the worst that mother nature has to offer.

These are just a few of the many upscale shopping options in Hayes Valley – there are plenty of other great stores and boutiques to explore as well

Where to Get Coffee in Hayes Valley

Ritual Coffee Roasters: This San Francisco-based coffee roaster is known for its high-quality beans and expertly crafted espresso drinks. The Hayes Valley location is a popular spot for coffee lovers, with a spacious, industrial-chic interior and plenty of seating.

Blue Bottle Coffee: This Oakland-based coffee roaster has a cult following for its meticulously sourced, single-origin coffee beans and innovative brewing methods. The Hayes Valley location features a sleek, modern interior and a range of espresso drinks, pour-overs, and cold brews.

Mazarine Coffee: This sleek, minimalist cafe serves up expertly crafted coffee drinks using a variety of brewing methods, as well as a selection of pastries and light bites. It’s a great spot for a quick caffeine fix or a relaxed afternoon break.

Artís Coffee: This stylish cafe features a rotating selection of single-origin coffees, as well as a range of espresso drinks, cold brews, and teas. It also has a selection of baked goods and sandwiches, making it a great spot for a light lunch or snack.

The Mill: This bakery and cafe is known for its artisanal breads and pastries, as well as its high-quality coffee drinks. The spacious, light-filled interior is a great spot to work or meet friends, and the outdoor patio is a popular spot on sunny days.