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16th Avenue Tiled Steps: A Mosaic Masterpiece

Ascend a sea-to-sky mosaic on San Francisco's 16th Avenue Tiled Steps, a vibrant testament to community art and stunning city views.

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The 16th Avenue Tiled Steps, also known as the Moraga Steps, are a vibrant mosaic staircase in San Francisco's Golden Gate Heights neighborhood. This community-driven art project features 163 steps adorned with over 2,000 handcrafted tiles, depicting a stunning sea-to-sky scene.

A brief summary to 16th Avenue Tiled Steps

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the colors and intricate details of the mosaic tiles.
  • Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
  • Bring a jacket, as the Sunset District can be cooler than other parts of San Francisco.
  • Take your time climbing the steps to admire the individual tiles and the overall design.
  • After climbing the steps, continue to Grandview Park for panoramic city views.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown San Francisco, take the N-Judah Muni light rail line to the 16th Avenue and Judah Street stop. Walk south on 16th Avenue to Moraga Street. The 16th Avenue Tiled Steps are located at the intersection of 16th Avenue and Moraga Street. A single ride on Muni costs $3.00, or $2.50 with a Clipper card or the MuniMobile app. A day pass is available for $5.70 via the MuniMobile app.

  • Walking

    From the Inner Sunset neighborhood, walk towards 16th Avenue and Moraga Street. The steps are located on Moraga Street between 15th and 16th Avenues. Be prepared for a steep uphill walk. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Ride Share

    Request a ride to the intersection of 16th Avenue and Moraga Street. Be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours. The ride from Union Square will typically cost between $20 and $40, depending on demand and traffic.

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Discover more about 16th Avenue Tiled Steps

The 16th Avenue Tiled Steps, located in San Francisco's Inner Sunset District, represent a remarkable fusion of community spirit and artistic vision. Inspired by the Escadaria Selarón in Rio de Janeiro, the project was initiated in 2003 by local residents Jessie Audette and Alice Yee Xavier, with the goal of connecting neighbors and beautifying the Golden Gate Heights neighborhood. Artists Aileen Barr and Colette Crutcher collaborated with the community to create the mosaic design, which extends across the 163 steps. The vibrant tapestry of colors and patterns depicts an underwater scene that flows from the bottom to the top of the staircase, transitioning from the sea to the sky. Over 220 neighbors sponsored handmade tiles in the shapes of animals, fish, and shells, which were embedded within the mosaic. The 16th Avenue Tiled Steps were completed and unveiled in 2005, quickly capturing the hearts of residents and visitors alike. The steps lead up to Grandview Park, which offers panoramic views of the city. The gardens on either side of the stairs feature California native plants and succulents. The 16th Avenue Tiled Steps have become a popular destination for both locals and tourists, drawn to the unique beauty and community spirit of this urban art installation.

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