3 ms·

I've had different experiences every time I've gone to the city. During my last visit, we steered clear of market and spent a nice day in Mission/Castro/Japant

I've had different experiences every time I've gone to the city. During my last visit, we steered clear of market and spent a nice day in Mission/Castro/Japantown. On one of my previous visits, I had a guy threaten me. The city is a mixed bag. The only other west coast city I can compare it to is Seattle. Outside of SF and Seattle, every west coast city I've been to has been almost 100% peaceful, safe and enjoyable. The only time I've ever heard of a friend getting mugged was in SF.

vmception 6y ago
A unique thing about SF is that its economic centers and tourist markets are where vagrancy and degeneracy are most tolerated and heaviest in density. Its easy not to know that its not where to go. Trendy transplants hang out on Valencia St in The Mission and towards Delores Park. Or on Union St in the Marina and towards the water. Or on the lawn in the Presidio. Or at Ocean beach. You will never see any strife, out of sight out of mind. These areas are still doing great for socializing and a brief escape. There are quite a few others places as well of course but I dont think I really want peninsula and south bay suburbanites coming to them lol. Visitors are corralled into areas by Union Square, Embarcadero, Market St and the worst parts of SOMA. Its logical to want to go there but its a mistake. Commuters and sports fans are only familiar with that area, along with the parking garages being plentiful. But for a recreational visit, use this post as a guide.