For San Franciscans who attend theater openings and symphony galas, Hayes Valley is the place to buy a one-of-a-kind gown, eat a terrific meal, then dash off to hear Michael Tilson Thomas, all without traveling more than three blocks. Dashing too quickly would be a shame, as this is an ideal neighborhood for browsing. Hayes Valley is lined with galleries, small boutique shops, and places to eat that cover tastes from soul food to Sushi. For window shoppers, there are numerous diversions.

364 Hayes St. Gallery: This gallery prides itself on the variety of mediums its artists work in. Focusing mostly on contemporary and emerging artists not found at other San Francisco galleries, 364 Hayes exhibits the full gamut of art forms, from paintings to video to deconstructed textile creations. Closed Sundays and Mondays. 364 Hayes St., (415) 431-0364.

Art Options/Images -- A Gallery: Two galleries in one, Art Options focuses on glass, jewelry and other crafts, such as stone menorahs, while Images features paintings and sculpture by Bay Area artists, including well-known names in the area like Nell Melcher, Tom Atkins and the late Noal Betts. It's possible to find reasonably priced goods, including a number of items made from recycled glass. Closed Mondays. 372 Hayes St., Art Options, (415) 252-8334; Images -- A Gallery, (415) 626-2284.

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