Explore These San Francisco Neighborhoods with Waymo
Don’t forget to download the Waymo app to explore some of San Francisco’s best neighborhoods from the comfort and safety of your driverless car.
Whether it’s your first time or you’re a certified San Franciscophile, you know that this city is a collection of neighborhoods weaved together to form a seamless expanse of culture, diverse experiences, and unique peoples. But did you know you can now experience all that San Francisco has to offer in a car with no driver? Here are some neighborhoods we suggest you explore the next time you jump in a Waymo in San Francisco.
Noe Valley
Known to locals as “Stroller Valley’, this European-esque enclave is smack-dab in the middle of the city. Tucked between the Mission, the Castro, and Twin Peaks, Noe Valley features an array of small, locally-owned shops, restaurants, and bars that will have you checking out the real estate listings while you explore. Here are a few of those places we suggest you select as your Waymo destination.
- Bernie’s Coffee (3966 24th Street) - A small, women-owned business in the neighborhood for nearly 20 years. It’s the perfect place to grab a cup of joe to start your Noe Valley stroll.
- NOVY(4000 24th Street) - On the corner of 24th and Noe streets, you’ll find this casual Greek-American restaurant serving up some of the best lamb gyros around. Pro tip: if you’re there for breakfast, check out the huevos rancheros.
- Mrs. Lovejoy Tea Room (1351 Church Street) - Ever want to feel like you’re sitting with the Mad Hatter in Wonderland? Step inside this San Francisco staple and enjoy a cup of tea with some finger sandwiches while you get lost in conversations with friends.
- Town Square (3861 24th Streeet) - Grab a sandwich, a book, and enjoy the sights, sun, and sounds in one of San Francisco’s best neighborhood squares. If you’re in town over the weekend, be sure to swing by the Farmer’s Market for locally sourced goods and live music.
West Portal
What was once a sleepy (and foggy) neighborhood on the west side of town has blossomed into one of San Francisco’s most popular hangouts. Traditionally a place that most San Franciscan’s would drive to, locals and visitors alike are jumping on Muni or hailing a Waymo to spend a full day exploring the neighborhood businesses.
- Elena’s (255 West Portal Avenue) - One of the neighborhood’s newest restaurants, Elena’s is a go-to for your Mexican-American craving. We like trying the different margaritas at the bar while noshing on some chips and quac while waiting for the fajitas. For something a little more San Francisco, try the Dungeness crab enchiladas.
- Shaws (122 West Portal Avenue) - It’s hard to visit West Portal without stopping at Shaws for their homemade fudge. A West Portal staple since 1931, Shaws is a quintessential flashback to the candy store you’ve seen in the movies. Find everything from ice cream to PEZ candies to chocolate sweets—and don’t forget to bring some home!
- The Dubliner (328 West Portal Avenue) - Feeling thirsty? The Dubliner is one of many neighborhood watering holes. With a plethora of TVs on the wall, The Dubliner is a place you’ll swing by for one and leave after a few.
- Submarine Center (820 Ulloa Street) - Locals from all over the city head to “Subs” for one of the best sandwiches in town. The no-frills joint is almost certain to have a line, although it moves fast—assuming you know what you want. If you’re real hungry, try to down a “Super Atomic” and get ready to skip dinner.
Inner Sunset
South of Golden Gate Park, San Francisco’s Sunset neighborhood is a melting pot of cuisines, local shops, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the afternoon in the neighborhood after a morning of exploring the park, or just wanting to get a taste of what the locals do, the Inner Sunset—that’s the eastern part of the neighborhood, closest to Mt. Sutro and Twin Peaks—is a perfect spot of the map for your next Waymo ride.
- Arizmendi Bakery (1331 Ninth Avenue) - The bakery is one of the most popular in San Francisco. Fresh pastries, bread, and other treats are baked daily. The moment you get our of your Waymo, the aromas will be calling your name. Friendly suggestion: try their lite-baked pizzas after 10 a.m. for a snack or lunch as you walk the neighborhood.
- San Franpsycho (1256 Ninth Avenue) - We know San Francisco can be a little…unique. San Franpsycho is a local clothing establishment that embraces our character with awesome tees, hats, and outerwear designed and produced in house. You’ll be hard-pressed to leave without something you immediately feel legit in.
- Green Apple Books (1231 Ninth Avenue) - What better way to enjoy an afternoon in Golden Gate Park than with a good book? If you like friendly service, local knowledge, and great ambience, this bookshop is your vibe.
- San Francisco Hometown Creamery (1290 Ninth Avenue) - There wasn’t a chance that we would end the list without telling you where to grab some ice cream. Every batch at Hometown Creamery is created from scratch and with the collaboration of local producers. And if you just have a minor sweet tooth, try their smidge size.
These are just a few of the many San Francisco neighborhoods you need to explore. Be sure to download the Waymo App when you’re next in town.
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