In some ways Haight Street today is the Haight Street of nearly 30 years ago.
There are psychedelic posters, love beads, platform shoes and marijuana paraphernalia.
Isn't this deja vu?
Today, almost 30 years after the beginning of the hippie movement, youth still flock to the upper Haight area. In a time where so many things are influenced by the late '60s and the early '70s, youth on Haight Street still try to recapture the spirit of those times.
"I like going to Haight Street because no one knows who I am and I can be myself no matter how I am," said tourist Kristy Kanzler.
In the late '60s, the Haight became a place where young adults as well as middle-aged individuals came together to express their uniqueness. These individuals helped create the Haight Street culture. Today this area remains an intriguing place.
"It's such an interesting place because there are so many new things to look at and so many cool people to meet," said tourist Vittoria Federico.
Even so, there are drawbacks such as drugs. The most available drug of choice continues to be marijuana.
"I usually visit Haight street to buy pot because there is plenty of it," said a 16-year-old who requested anonymity.
Marijuana paraphernalia is as common as its users. Stores filled with colorful bongs of all shapes and sizes and pipes in every imaginable color and design, line the streets. There are even some stores which are dedicated to selling such paraphernalia and, according to the owners, they brings in thousands of dollars yearly.
Another reason people visit the area is because there aren't many other places that sell one foot high platform shoes or psychedelic print dresses that were worn in the '60s and '70s. There are many clothing stores which cater to many looks whether it be sophisticated grunge or '70s retro with a '90s twist.
"What's great about this place is you can even find clothes to accomodate that 'old school' '80's look," said Erin Mullins of Half Moon Bay.
One thing that ties yesterday and today is the quest for individuality.
"Because everything is so trendy today, trying to be an individual is a hard thing to do. Besides coming from inside, individuality is what you physically express,Ó said tourist Nate Serdy. ItÕs really easy for me to be who and what I want to be when IÕm on Haight Street, because not one person is alike."
A visit to Haight Street is an educational experience. It's there where you will find relics of years gone by. People on Haight Street agree that for better or worse, the Haight culture will be around forever as a place for teens and those still young at heart to gather and enjoy their differences.
"I will continue to visit Haight Street as long as it's a getaway from society and a fun place to be," said visitor Jenni Phillips.