The Grateful Dead 60 in SF

The Grateful Dead: San Francisco's Psychedelic Soul

Dead & Company returns to Golden Gate Park, August 1-3

The Dead Come Home

Born in Palo Alto and raised in San Francisco’s Excelsior District, Jerry Garcia would go on to help shape the sound of a generation as the front man of the Grateful Dead. Formed in the heart of Haight-Ashbury, the band fused rock, blues, and psychedelia into a movement. From marathon performances at the Fillmore to a devoted legion of Deadheads, the Grateful Dead transformed live music into a spiritual ritual, establishing San Francisco as the epicenter of music and counterculture.

Now, 60 years later, the music returns home. Dead & Company—featuring original members and new talent—will perform a historic three-night run in Golden Gate Park this August, bringing the legacy back to its origins. As San Francisco celebrates this milestone, it's a great time to explore the neighborhoods and venues where the Dead's story unfolded. Because in San Francisco, the music never stops.

Don't Miss These Events

Jerry Garcia Street Dedication | August 1 | 4540 Mission St 

Dead & Company in Golden Gate Park | August 1-3 | Polo Field

23rd Annual Jerry Day | August 2 | Jerry Garcia Amphitheater

Jerry Garcia Giant’s Tribute Night | August 12 | Oracle Park

Self-Guided Tour

Start: Golden Gate Park – Hippie Hill (Near Stanyan & Haight Street)

This is where it all started. In the Summer of Love (1967), the Dead played free shows here, drawing huge crowds. Imagine the smell of incense, the swirl of tie-dye, and the echo of "Dark Star" in the trees.

Stop 1: Amoeba Music (1855 Haight Street)

One of the last great record stores, Amoeba has a huge collection of Grateful Dead vinyl, posters, bootlegs, and memorabilia. Take your time digging—Deadheads can easily spend an hour here.

Stop 2: 710 Ashbury Street (Between Waller & Frederick Streets)

The Grateful Dead House, where all the original members lived from 1966 to 1968. Fans often gathered on the sidewalk outside, hoping to glimpse Jerry Garcia or catch strains of music drifting from an open window. Still a private residence (so be respectful), this Victorian home is the holy grail for Deadheads.

Stop 3: Haight and Ashbury (Corner of Haight & Ashbury Streets)

The epicenter of the counterculture movement. This intersection became synonymous with the hippie era, and walking these streets, you'll understand why musicians like the Dead were drawn to the neighborhood's creative energy. These same Victorian houses are now some of SF's most sought-after properties.

Stop 4: The Panhandle (Between Oak & Fell Streets)

The Dead performed some of their first free outdoor shows here in 1967. It’s a peaceful spot to imagine the grassroots rise of the band—and maybe listen to a bootleg while walking the path they once jammed beside.

Extra Stop: Former Fillmore Auditorium / The Fillmore (1805 Geary Blvd)

Not quite in the Haight but worth the walk or quick Muni ride. This is where the Dead’s legend was forged. Promoter Bill Graham gave them a major platform here, with the Dead playing here 51 times between 1965 and 1969.