What is the Jimi Hendrix Red House?

The Jimi Hendrix Red House is a bright red landmark located near the intersection of Haight and Ashbury in San Francisco. It is known as an icon of the city's heritage and Haight's eclectic character, and was once operated as a hippie-inspired hotel with themed rooms celebrating counterculture.

Can I go inside the Jimi Hendrix Red House?

No, the apartment is currently a private residence located above a tobacco shop, so visitors cannot go inside. You can, however, admire the murals painted on the exterior walls to commemorate the musician.

Why is it called the Red House?

The house is called the Red House because it was painted red in honor of Jimi Hendrix.

Did Jimi Hendrix actually live there?

While the San Francisco Travel Association and Clio state that Hendrix lived there for a few years in the 1960s, some biographers and historians insist there is no evidence that he ever lived at that address.

What is the house known for?

The site is a local tourist attraction known for its exterior murals and rumors that the property inspired the song 'Red House'.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

Jimi Hendrix Red House in San Francisco

Jimi Hendrix Red House

A bright red landmark in the Haight-Ashbury district, this residence is traditionally associated with rock legend Jimi Hendrix during the 1960s counterculture era.

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What to know

The Jimi Hendrix Red House, located at 1524-1528 Haight Street, stands as a vibrant landmark in San Francisco's Haight-Ashbury district. The building is painted bright red in honor of the legendary musician, a color choice that gives the site its name and makes it stand out even among the colorful Victorian buildings of the neighborhood. According to the San Francisco Travel Association and Clio, Hendrix lived in the apartment at 1524A Haight Street for a few years during the 1960s. This location is situated right near the intersection of Haight and Ashbury, placing it at the heart of the hippie movement. While the property has served various roles over time, including a period as a hippie-inspired hotel with themed rooms celebrating counterculture, it is now a private residence located above a tobacco shop. Despite its status as a local tourist attraction and a destination for tour groups, the site's history is subject to debate. Some biographers and historians insist there is no evidence that Hendrix ever lived at this address, while rumors persist that the property inspired the song 'Red House'. Visitors today can admire the exterior murals commemorating the musician, which previously included two Hendrix murals and a banner reading 'Jimi Hendrix Red House'. However, as the property is a private residence, the public cannot enter the interior. Visitors are urged to be respectful of the residents who still live there.

Visitor tips

Be respectful of the residents as this is a private residence and you cannot go inside.
Look for the murals on the exterior walls commemorating Jimi Hendrix.
Since it is located near the intersection of Haight and Ashbury, allow time to explore the surrounding hippie-inspired shops.

Nearby context

The Red House is situated in the heart of the Haight-Ashbury district, near the intersection of Haight and Ashbury, where the hippie movement of the 1960s era flourished.

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