We Asked San Franciscans Where They Go to Forget the World’s Problems
Because we could all use some time outside of our heads and bedrooms these days
It’s almost comical at this point to say that we’re in uncharted waters, plunged into a daily riptide of what-if and if-that statements. But, alack, we are — and there’s no clear, Covid-free shoreline on the pandemic’s horizon. However, that’s not to say you can’t still find pockets of cool-calm — especially here in the Bay.
Access to Mother Nature and the great outdoors is essential to human health; walking through green spaces and outdoor venues is also one of the safest, least risky activities one can do these days. So we caught up with some fellow San Franciscans to ask where they’re going these days to clear their minds and forget about the world’s issues. Of course, it’s still important to wear a mask and keep at least six feet apart from others.
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So, when you’re feeling a bit stir crazy, check out these vetted serene spots recommended by your neighbors.
“For peace and quiet, I love to go on a walk through the Richmond to cafés off the beaten path. Fifty/Fifty is one of my favorites… which is currently taking takeout orders!” — Anthony Rodgers
“I love walking around the steps of Grace Cathedral. I used to go to their services, but you can still see their services and other stuff online.” — Shelby Hanlin
“I like the trail between the Golden Gate Bridge and Baker Beach. You pass the old gun batteries in the Presidio. It’s a coastal trail and blends both the California Coastal Trail and the Battery to Bluffs Trail. On some mornings, after I drop off my daughter, I run through Ghirardelli, Fort Mason, Chrissy Field, then left onto the trail. The view is amazing and in the early morning, there aren’t a lot of people.” — Raesue King
“I like walking along Ocean Beach, especially now that you can stroll on the Upper Great Highway for a few miles. It’s never really that crowded, and it’s pretty easy to maintain social distancing. And everyone around me when I walk is respectful of it. The public bathrooms are closed, so ‘do your business’ before going out.” — Shelby Haines
“I really love walking to Pioneer Park and looking at Coit Tower. Also, the landscape around the Conservatory of Flowers is so beautiful — and you can still walk and see them. Get a blanket and just soak up the sun with some new flower friends in their front area.” — Eric Carranza
“Kite Hill! I’ve meditated and done yoga there a few times… though I feel like I need to go back, especially now over all this coronavirus panic.” — Brian Bloomer
“I really like going to Baker Beach when I can. It’s really calming, and I can always bring a book or my noise-canceling headphones to chill out with.” — Franko Salvatore
“Batteries to Bluffs Trail is great. I’ll try to run there from the Outer Richmond where I live. Never had a problem staying clear of other people, and, if you go early in the morning, it’s never crowded. But it’s never really that crowded either
“Corona Heights Park. And in the mornings, I like to sit atop the rocks and see the sunrise. It’s calming and centering, for sure.” — Melissa Eisenberg
“Glen Canyon Park and Mt. Davidson is a double whammy you can hike in an afternoon, easy. When I’m feeling stir crazy, it’s my favorite escape to put on my shoes and walk through each. Mt. Davidson is also San Francisco’s highest peak, so the views are breathtaking. In a poetic way, hiking up to its summit is like actively getting out and above the stuff in your head.” — Jamie McDowell
“A bike ride over the Golden Gate Bridge is something I can still do to clear my head and find some calm.” — Justin Melbourne
“The Panhandle reminds me that my city is very much alive when I go on my post-work walk. I’ll admit — it’s not exactly quiet. But my soul feels rested and at peace there. Sometimes, there’s a jazz concert or solo pianist playing at the basketball courts. There are always people doing yoga or reading on the grass. When you’ve been kept inside all day and staring at a screen, especially for someone like me who lives alone, it’s hard to convey how nice it is to see actual human beings doing their thing.” — Julia Licata
“A leisurely hike to and around Lands End is a favorite walk of mine. And the labyrinth at Lands End will almost make you forget you’re in San Francisco.” — Drag Queen Cash Monet
“I like to go out to Sutro Heights Park when I need some calm and peace. There are the ruins of an old house there that you can walk up into that has a beautiful view of the coast and the ocean, and that is my secret place.” — Rachel Azana
“Golden Gate Park during the weekday. There’s even bison [and now also baby bison that you can watch live on a dedicated webcam feed]. What’s not to love?” — Eoin McMillan
