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Alta Plaza Park: A Pacific Heights Jewel

Panoramic views & recreation in Pacific Heights. Historic park with tennis, playground & dog-friendly areas. A San Francisco gem!

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Alta Plaza Park, perched atop Pacific Heights in San Francisco, offers panoramic city views and a vibrant community space. Once a rock quarry, this 12-acre park features terraced lawns, a playground, tennis courts, and a popular dog-friendly area, making it a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Alta Plaza Park

  • Monday 5 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 5 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 5 am-12 am
  • Thursday 5 am-12 am
  • Friday 5 am-12 am
  • Saturday 5 am-12 am
  • Sunday 5 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit on a clear day for the best panoramic views of the city, including Alcatraz Island and the Golden Gate Bridge.
  • Bring your dog to enjoy the off-leash area on the north side of the park.
  • Climb the grand staircase at Pierce and Clay for a challenging workout with rewarding views.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy on the grassy lawns or at the tables near the playground.
  • Check out the plum blossom trees in early to mid-February for a beautiful display of color.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Fillmore Street, a popular shopping and dining destination, walk west towards Alta Plaza Park. Ascend the park via the grand staircase at Pierce and Clay Streets, or for a less strenuous route, use the accessible ramp from Scott and Jackson Streets. The park is a short walk from most points in Pacific Heights.

  • Public Transport

    Several San Francisco Municipal Railway (MUNI) bus lines serve the area around Alta Plaza Park. Check the MUNI website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A single ride on MUNI costs $3.00 cash, or $2.50 with a Clipper card or the MuniMobile app. A day pass, allowing unlimited rides on MUNI buses and streetcars, is available for $5.70 via the MuniMobile app.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout San Francisco. A short ride from downtown or Fisherman's Wharf to Alta Plaza Park will typically cost between $15 and $25, depending on traffic and demand.

Unlock the Best of Alta Plaza Park

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Discover more about Alta Plaza Park

Alta Plaza Park, a verdant oasis crowning the western edge of Pacific Heights, provides breathtaking views of San Francisco, spanning from the Marina and Cow Hollow to Alcatraz Island. This four-square-block park, bordered by Jackson, Clay, Steiner, and Scott Streets, has a rich history, evolving from a rock quarry in the late 19th century to the terraced urban retreat it is today. The park's design, featuring a grand staircase on the southern side and grassy expanses on the north, creates a multi-level landscape perfect for recreation and relaxation. Visitors can enjoy three hard-surface tennis courts, a basketball court, and a children's playground. The park is also a popular spot for dog owners, with a designated off-leash area where furry friends can roam freely. Alta Plaza Park is not only a place for leisure but also a destination for fitness enthusiasts. The grand staircase at Pierce and Clay is a hotspot for those seeking a challenging workout, while the park's perimeter offers a pleasant 0.6-mile loop for walking or jogging. The park's steps were also featured in the 1972 film 'What's Up, Doc?', leaving lasting damage from a car chase scene. Despite some wear and tear, Alta Plaza Park remains a cherished landmark, offering a blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and stunning city vistas.

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