5 San Francisco Spots for the Student on a Budget

Most of us have heard of this music haven for all things vinyl, CD and the otherwise digital, but did you know that they hold free live events and performances? Though they are held among their three locations, most performances happen between their San Francisco location on Haight and Hollywood store in Southern California. Once a bowling alley, Amoeba has the laid-back feel that allows you to listen and browse to your heart’s content. In addition, its proximity to Golden Gate park makes Amoeba the best spot around to pick up music and go dance in the park.
Amoeba, 1855 Haight Street San Francisco, CA +1 415 835 1200

If you need a study break, the best answer is a treat and the best treat is a popsicle from Bliss Pops. From fun flavors like Nutella to traditionals like Organic Fresh Strawberry and Organic Fresh Pineapple, Bliss is a quaint shop with flavorful products. Open Tuesday through Sunday, you can stop by grab and go with a refreshing pop for only $3. A nice perk of this pseudo-popup is the personal service of the owner. He is the server, cashier and sole person inside, so become a regular and you’ll be fast friends.
Bliss, 1475 Polk Street San Francisco, CA +1 650 549 4323

Half coffee shop and half outdoor retail space, the Tiny Warrior has a simple menu of coffee with a powerful blend of roasters from across the country. With limited seating, it’s a good spot to stop by on your way to the crucial project meeting you’ve been dreading to get done. However, if you do decide to stay and peruse the items for sale, you might wind up planning your next getaway. A signature coffee will run you $5 even, but you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. Additionally, Tiny Warrior will feature a blend from Portland starting mid-July, and they’re also thinking of creating an original seasonal drink. Having only been open for nine months, this is sure to be a permanent hot spot.
Tiny Warrior, 3376 18th Street San Francisco, CA +1 510 847 4754

Labeled as Linea Coffee on their signage, this waffle nook is where the college-aged should brunch. Down the street from the aforementioned Tiny Warrior, stop by after getting coffee to try their Belgian waffles and sandwiches. A good classic is the Egg Sandwich, which is composed of an over-easy egg and bacon between two fluffy and crisp waffles. Maxing out at $9 per sandwich, you can leave with both your stomach and wallet full.
Linea, 3417 18th Street San Francisco, CA +1 415 590 3011

City Art Gallery offers a collection comprised of San Franciscan native and locally-based artists. The mediums range from photography to jewelry, and the artists double as sellers themselves. Showcasing a new rotation of artists every month adds to the community aspect the gallery aims for. The art is affordable enough to pay for on a student budget, so take a look around to see how to make your digs more artsy.
City Art Gallery, 828 Valencia Street San Francisco, CA +1 415 970 9900
By Jaimi Cooks