Alamo Square Historic District: A Victorian Masterpiece
Discover San Francisco's iconic Alamo Square Historic District: Victorian architecture, Painted Ladies, and stunning city views await in this charming and historic neighborhood.
Alamo Square Historic District, a captivating blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture, is a quintessential San Francisco experience. This residential neighborhood, surrounding Alamo Square Park, boasts a remarkable collection of Victorian and Edwardian homes, showcasing styles from Italianate to Queen Anne. The 'Painted Ladies,' a picturesque row of vibrant houses on Steiner Street, provide a stunning foreground to the city skyline, making it one of the most photographed locations in San Francisco. Beyond the iconic view, the district offers a tranquil escape with its green spaces, walking paths, and a vibrant community atmosphere, making it a must-see for any visitor seeking to immerse themselves in San Francisco's unique charm and history.
A brief summary to Alamo Square Historic District
- San Francisco, Fillmore District, California, 94117, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photographing the Painted Ladies.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy the views from Alamo Square Park.
- Explore the surrounding neighborhood for hidden cafes, boutiques, and local shops.
- Check for local events or festivals happening in Alamo Square Park.
- Take a guided walking tour to learn more about the history and architecture of the district.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From central locations in San Francisco, such as Union Square or the Ferry Building, the most convenient way to reach Alamo Square is by using the Muni bus system. Several bus lines, including the 5, 21, 22, and 24, stop near Alamo Square Park. A single ride on Muni costs $3.00, and can be paid using the MuniMobile app or Clipper card. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the park and the Painted Ladies. The closest bus stops are Hayes St & Pierce St and McAllister St & Pierce St.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout San Francisco. A taxi or ride-share from Union Square to Alamo Square typically costs between $15 and $25, depending on traffic and demand. The ride takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Request your drop-off at the corner of Steiner Street and Hayes Street for the closest access to the Painted Ladies and Alamo Square Park.
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Walking
If you are already in the Western Addition or Hayes Valley neighborhoods, walking to Alamo Square is a pleasant option. From Hayes Valley, head west along Hayes Street towards Alamo Square Park. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes and offers a chance to admire the neighborhood's architecture. Note that there is an uphill walk.
Discover more about Alamo Square Historic District
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Alamo Square Historic District
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Discover the historic Alamo Square District, home of the iconic Painted Ladies and stunning views of San Francisco’s skyline.
William Westerfeld House
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Explore the William Westerfeld House, a stunning Victorian landmark in San Francisco's Fillmore District, showcasing exquisite architecture and rich history.
Victorian houses at McAllister st.
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Experience San Francisco's architectural heritage with a stroll along McAllister Street, where vibrant Victorian houses showcase the city's rich history in the heart of the Fillmore District.
Hayes St
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Explore Hayes Street in San Francisco: A vibrant hub of boutiques, restaurants, and culture in historic Hayes Valley, offering a unique urban experience.
Abner Phelps House
0.5 km
Explore the Abner Phelps House, the oldest surviving residence in San Francisco, showcasing the city's rich architectural heritage and history.
John Spencer House
0.7 km
Experience San Francisco's Victorian splendor at the John Spencer House, a meticulously preserved Queen Anne mansion in the heart of Haight-Ashbury, reflecting the city's rich architectural heritage.
Delano House
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Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Delano House, a charming historical landmark in San Francisco's Buena Vista neighborhood.
1709 Broderick St
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Discover the historic charm of 1709 Broderick St, a stunning building in Lower Pacific Heights, showcasing San Francisco's rich architectural heritage.
Bush Street-Cottage Row Historic District
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Discover a hidden gem in San Francisco's Japantown: a preserved residential enclave of Italianate and Stick-style homes, offering a glimpse into the city's 19th-century past.
Vollmer House
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Discover the Vollmer House in San Francisco's Japantown: a stunning example of Stick-Eastlake Victorian architecture with a rich history and intricate design, a landmark of preservation.
The Shortest Street in San Francisco
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Stroll down San Francisco's shortest street in the Fillmore District, a unique historical landmark offering a charming glimpse into the city's quirky urban landscape and vibrant local culture.
1524 Haight St
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Janis Joplin's House
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Grateful Dead House
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Stanyan House
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Unmissable attractions to see
The Painted Ladies
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Hayes Valley
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The Fillmore
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Experience the iconic Fillmore, a historic live music venue in San Francisco, where legendary performances create unforgettable memories.
Buena Vista Park
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Japantown
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The Panhandle
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Peace Pagoda
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A symbol of peace and unity in San Francisco's Japantown, the Peace Pagoda offers a glimpse into Japanese heritage and culture.
Haight-Ashbury
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Haight-Ashbury Clock
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Jimi Hendrix Red House
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Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption
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Essential places to dine
Nopa
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The Progress
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Discover innovative Californian cuisine at The Progress in San Francisco’s charming Fillmore District—an unforgettable dining experience awaits!
State Bird Provisions
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Petit Crenn
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Discover the artful blend of tradition and innovation at Petit Crenn, a premier French restaurant in San Francisco's Hayes Valley.
Suppenküche
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Experience authentic German cuisine at Suppenküche in San Francisco's Hayes Valley - where every dish tells a story.
a Mano
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Experience authentic Italian cuisine at a Mano in Hayes Valley - where fresh ingredients meet culinary creativity.
Monsieur Benjamin
1.2 km
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Chez Maman West
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Nightbird
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Absinthe Brasserie & Bar
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Rich Table
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Kiln
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Starbelly
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Burma Love - Mission
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Brenda's French Soul Food
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Perish Trust
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Rare Device
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Life
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Explore Life, a boutique gift shop in Lower Haight, San Francisco, offering unique aromatherapy, jewelry, candles, and artisan treasures.
COVE
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Discover unique gifts at COVE, a charming shop in San Francisco's Lower Haight, showcasing local artisans and eclectic treasures.
Metier
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Discover unique, artisan-crafted jewelry at Metier in the heart of Hayes Valley, San Francisco's chic shopping destination.
Reliquary
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True
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Discover unique fashion at True Clothing in Haight-Ashbury, San Francisco's iconic store for eclectic styles and local designer pieces.
Things Lucky Handicraft
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Welcome Haight & Ashbury
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minimal
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Held Over
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post.script.
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FRAME
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San Francisco Mercantile
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Land of the Sun
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Noc Noc
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Smuggler's Cove
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Blackbird
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Brioche Bakery & Cafe
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Tara Indian Cuisine
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The Majestic Butterfly Lounge
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Dahlia SF
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ABV
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Kozy Kar
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The Sycamore
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Rye Cocktail Bar
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Bourbon & Branch
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The Beehive
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Cityscape
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Sluts the wine bar
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