The Iconic Painted Ladies of San Francisco
Discover the Painted Ladies, San Francisco's iconic Victorian homes, a must-see historical landmark surrounded by stunning city views.
A brief summary to The Painted Ladies
- San Francisco, Alamo Square, California, 94117, US
The Painted Ladies are a quintessential San Francisco experience, offering visitors a picturesque view of Victorian architecture at its finest. Located in Alamo Square, this row of beautifully restored houses showcases a spectrum of pastel colors that attract photographers and tourists alike. The most famous among them is often featured in various media, making it an instantly recognizable symbol of the city. As you stand before these stunning homes, you can appreciate the intricate details of their design, reflecting a time when craftsmanship was paramount. Beyond their visual appeal, the Painted Ladies provide a fascinating glimpse into the history of San Francisco during the 19th century. These homes were built during a time of prosperity and are a testament to the city's resilience, having survived numerous historical events including the devastating earthquake of 1906. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through Alamo Square Park, which offers a perfect vantage point for photographs, especially with the city skyline in the background. The park itself is a lovely space to relax, ideal for picnics or simply soaking in the views. To enhance your visit, consider planning your trip on a cooler day to make the most of your walking experience around the area. The Painted Ladies are not just a sight to behold, but they also offer a rich narrative that connects visitors to the past while enjoying the vibrant life of modern San Francisco.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting for photographs.
- Explore the surrounding Alamo Square Park for a relaxing picnic with a view.
- Consider taking a walking tour to learn more about the history and architecture of the area.
Getting There
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Public Transit (Muni)
If you're starting from downtown San Francisco, head to the Montgomery Street Muni/BART station. Take the Muni bus route 5 (Fulton) towards the Richmond District. After about 15-20 minutes, get off at the corner of Fulton St & Stanyan St. From there, transfer to the 21 (Hayes) bus towards the Golden Gate Park. Get off at the stop at Hayes St & Fillmore St. Walk two blocks north on Fillmore St and then turn left on Grove St. Continue straight until you reach Alamo Square Park, where the Painted Ladies are located.
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Walking
If you prefer to walk from a central location like Union Square, start by heading west on Geary St towards Powell St. Continue on Geary St, which will turn into McAllister St. Follow McAllister St until you reach Baker St. Turn left on Baker St and continue walking until you arrive at Alamo Square Park. The Painted Ladies are located on the east side of the park, facing Alamo Square.
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Ride Share (Uber/Lyft)
Open your ride-sharing app and set your destination to 'The Painted Ladies, San Francisco'. Most drivers will know the location as it is a popular tourist attraction. Expect a ride from downtown San Francisco to take around 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic.
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Biking
If you are comfortable riding a bike, you can rent one from a bike-sharing service like Bay Wheels. Start from an area like Fisherman's Wharf and follow the bike path along the waterfront to the Embarcadero. Continue up to Market St, then take Market St until you reach Van Ness Ave. Turn left on Van Ness Ave and then right on Grove St. From there, make your way to Alamo Square Park, where the Painted Ladies are located.
Attractions Nearby to The Painted Ladies
Landmarks nearby to The Painted Ladies
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Victorian houses at McAllister st.
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William Westerfeld House
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Alamo Square Historic District
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Abner Phelps House
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The Shortest Street in San Francisco
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Rothschild House
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Delano House
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Vollmer House
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Sarcophagus of Thomas Starr King
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Stanyan House
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California Historical Landmark 454: Site of Woodward's Gardens
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Bush Street Temple (Soto Mission)
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Mission San Francisco de Asis
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Grateful Dead House
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Pioneer Monument