photo by Daniel Leu
As Bernal Heights is on a hill, some would say that it is both South of and on top of San Francisco’s Mission District. Lovingly referred to as “Maternal Heights,” the BH is a haven for dog-owners, the hippie-minded and mamas with young children. However, you can still find a diverse group of residents who have lived in The BH for years and don’t intend to leave. Why? It’s less expensive, warmer than many of its neighboring districts and several green spaces (some attached to houses!) are scattered around the neighborhood. Like Bernal Heights Park, Precita Park and Holly Park. Neighborhood Tip: If you are looking for something to do in Bernal Heights, make sure to check out park schedules, there is likely to be an affordable concert or show playing for your enjoyment.
The neighborhood is mostly residential and is not as gentrified as the Mission, however more and more city-dwellers are discovering this little oasis on a hill. Cortland Avenue is one of the main streets and you can find bakeries, “The Good Life” grocery store, cafes, fruit stands, bars and restaurants here. Some popular places include: Moki’s Sushi and Pacific Grill, Piqueo’s and Paulie’s Pickling. Cortland Avenue also provides a home for one of the coolest community events in BH. The Bernal Heights’ HillWide Garage Sale is held in August each year. This event gives residents an opportunity to sell furniture, trinkets and clothes that they no longer use. It’s the biggest one in San Francisco and about 100 people register to sell.
Like Haight Ashbury, Bernal Heights has an annual festival that takes over its streets. On the third Sunday in October, “Bernal-ites” host “Fiesta on a Hill.” At that time over 100 arts & crafts, local goods & services and food vendors stretch across about seven streets. Residents’ favorites include the live music, dancing, petting zoo and donkey rides. Proceeds from this event benefit the Bernal Heights Neighborhood Center.
Another neighborhood attraction is the Bernal Heights Outdoor Cinema that takes place in September and October. This Bernal Heights Tradition shows free screenings from local filmmakers. Movies like ‘Miss Finknagle Succumbs to Chaos’ and ‘Garden for the Future’ have played here. Featured artists show works from as short of seven-minute documentaries to longer length films.
The quiet, small-town feel is what many appreciate about Bernal Heights, no doubt heightened by the many community-oriented events that take place through-out the year. Bernal Heights’ steep hills, and the fact that it only serviced by two bus lines - the 24 and the 67 - deter many from venturing up its inclines. But residents like this characteristic of the neighborhood. It has definitely slowed the gentrification process and allowed the neighborhood to keep its charm for a much longer time.
Make a friend here who has access to their rooftop. I guarantee you that looking at the city lights from there will take your breath and your stress away immediately.
Hurry up and visit before the magic disappears.
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