Where the Summer of Love sat down
During the Summer of Love in 1967, young people from the nearby Haight-Ashbury gathered on this slope to play music and hang out, and the name stuck. The Human Be-In that January took place at the Polo Field farther west. In 2014 the meadow below the hill was renamed Robin Williams Meadow in honor of the actor, who often spent time in the park.
Drum circles and sunny afternoons
On sunny afternoons, especially on weekends, you will find drum circles, slackliners, dogs, picnics and a mix of locals and visitors. The hill catches afternoon sun and is often warmer than the western half of the park. It is free and open whenever the park is.
4/20 and big gatherings
Hippie Hill draws a large crowd every April 20 for an informal 4/20 gathering; in some years the city has organized it as a ticketed or managed event with road closures. If you want a quiet visit, avoid that date and the weekends of large concerts in the meadow.
Walk from the Haight
From the corner of Haight and Stanyan streets, enter the park and walk west for about five minutes; the hill rises just north of Kezar Drive, with the carousel across the drive to the south. The Conservatory of Flowers is a 10-minute walk north. Pick up picnic supplies on Haight Street or see our picnic guide.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Hippie Hill?
On the slope above Robin Williams Meadow, a few minutes’ walk west of Haight and Stanyan streets.
Why is it called Hippie Hill?
Young people from Haight-Ashbury gathered there during the 1967 Summer of Love, and the name stuck.
