Janis Joplin's San Francisco | San Francisco Travel
Haight-Ashbury sign

Janis Joplin's San Francisco

Janis Joplin, San Francisco and the Summer of Love represent the face, the place and the time of legendary change.

Surrounded by all things psychedelic and revolutionary, Joplin was a pivotal player in the Haight-Ashbury scene. Her power still lingers, tripping its way through San Francisco's hip streets. Check out these local landmarks that evoke the best of Joplin and her counterculture vibe.

Vesuvio Cafe

255 Columbus Ave
Sunday to Monday 11:00 a.m to 1:00 a.m
Friday to Saturday 11:00 a.m to 2:00 a.m

A long-time city favorite, Vesuvio Café has welcomed authors, musicians, artists and other free spirits through its doors since 1948. Drawn to the Beat movement, and later to psychedelic rock, Joplin was just another patron who loved to hang out and chill behind its doors.

You'll spot Vesuvio Café from down the street thanks to its vibrant murals. If not, the sign with a guy sans clothing should catch your eye! Cocktails here are wild and original, just like its list of famous patrons. Try the Jack Kerouac (tequila, rum, cranberry and orange juice) or the Seagrams Tea with vodka and lemonade. Keep your eyes peeled. You never know who could walk through those doors.

Image of exterior of Vesuvio Cafe

The Fillmore

1805 Geary Blvd.

The Fillmore is still kicking up its heels with weekly events meant to get your pulse pounding and your feet hopping. Back in 1966, Joplin and Big Brother built up their fan base at venues like The Fillmore. Check out a concert and revel in the beat. You can almost hear Joplin still belting out those vocals.

Golden Gate Park

The Polo Fields of Golden Gate Park witnessed the birth of The Human Be-In on January 14, 1967. This event captured the attention of thousands, who were encouraged to "Turn on, tune in and drop out." Many rock and psychedelic rock bands took to the stage, including Joplin and Big Brother. Golden Gate Park remains one of the best places in the city to commune with nature and escape the frantic pace. Set up a picnic, invite your friends and chill out listening to Joplin and her contemporaries.

Tulips bloom beneath one of Golden Gate Park's famous windmills.

Janis Joplin's life was short-lived and dramatic, but her legacy as a pioneering woman of rock endures—and it is nowhere stronger than in San Francisco.


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