The Painted Ladies of San Francisco
Iconic Victorian homes in Alamo Square, San Francisco, famous for their vibrant colors and stunning city views.
The Painted Ladies, also known as "Postcard Row" or the "Seven Sisters," are a group of Victorian and Edwardian houses at 710–720 Steiner Street in San Francisco. These homes, built between 1892 and 1896 by developer Matthew Kavanaugh, exemplify Queen Anne-style architecture with their ornate detailing, bay windows, and steep roofs. Originally, Victorian houses were painted in more muted tones, but in the 1960s, a "colorist movement" began, transforming these homes with vibrant, contrasting colors to highlight their architectural features. This led to the term "Painted Ladies," which refers to Victorian or Edwardian houses painted in three or more colors. The Painted Ladies have become a symbol of San Francisco, appearing in numerous movies, TV shows, and advertisements, most famously in the opening credits of the sitcom "Full House". Situated across from Alamo Square Park, they offer a picturesque view with the city skyline in the background, making them a favorite spot for tourists and photographers.
Local tips
- Visit Alamo Square Park for the best views of the Painted Ladies and the San Francisco skyline.
- Arrive early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds and get the best lighting for photos.
- Explore the surrounding neighborhoods like Hayes Valley and the Fillmore for boutiques, restaurants, and nightlife.
A brief summary to The Painted Ladies
- San Francisco, Alamo Square, California, 94117, US
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown or Union Square, take the westbound #5 Muni bus and exit at McAllister and Pierce Streets. From there, it's a short walk to Alamo Square Park and the Painted Ladies. Alternatively, MUNI lines 21, 22, and 6 also stop near Alamo Square. 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.
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Walking
From many points in San Francisco, Alamo Square is accessible by foot. From the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood, it's approximately a 25-30 minute walk. From the Civic Center area, it's about a 20-25 minute walk. Be prepared for some uphill walking, as Alamo Square is situated on a hill.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in San Francisco. A short taxi ride from the downtown area to Alamo Square typically costs between $9 and $12. Note that taxi fares consist of a $4.15 flag rate, $0.65 for each additional one-fifth of a mile, and $0.65 for each minute of waiting time. Traffic can affect the final fare.
