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Alamo Square: A Postcard-Perfect Vista

Iconic San Francisco park offering stunning views of the Painted Ladies and the city skyline, a must-see for any visitor.

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Alamo Square, a hilltop park in San Francisco, offers iconic views of the city skyline and the famous "Painted Ladies," a row of colorful Victorian homes. This 12.7-acre park is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax, picnic, and soak in the quintessential San Francisco atmosphere.

A brief summary to Alamo Square

  • 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 early in the morning for fewer crowds and the best light for photographing the Painted Ladies.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy on the lawn while taking in the views of the city.
  • Explore the surrounding Alamo Square Historic District to admire the diverse Victorian architecture.
  • Take public transportation as parking can be challenging.
  • Check out nearby Divisadero Street for local shops, restaurants, and cafes.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Union Square, take the Muni 5 bus towards McAllister Street & Pierce Street. The bus runs every 30 minutes, and the journey takes approximately 20 minutes. A single fare is $3. Alternatively, take the Muni 21 Hayes bus which stops directly at the park.

  • Walking

    From the Hayes Valley neighborhood, walk west along Hayes Street towards Alamo Square. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes and offers a pleasant stroll through the neighborhood. No cost involved.

  • Ride Share

    From Fisherman's Wharf, a taxi or ride-share to Alamo Square will cost approximately $20-$30 and take around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Be prepared for potential surge pricing during peak hours.

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Discover more about Alamo Square

Alamo Square is more than just a park; it's a symbol of San Francisco. Named after a lone cottonwood tree (''álamo'' in Spanish) that once marked a watering hole, the area was designated as a park in 1856 by Mayor James Van Ness. Today, it's renowned for its stunning views, particularly the picturesque scene of the ''Painted Ladies'' against the backdrop of the downtown skyline. The ''Painted Ladies,'' also known as ''Postcard Row'' or the ''Seven Sisters,'' are a series of vibrantly colored Victorian houses that have become an iconic representation of San Francisco architecture. Built in the late 1800s, these homes showcase intricate detailing and unique color combinations, attracting visitors from around the world. While you can't go inside, admiring them from the street or the park is a must. Alamo Square Park itself offers a variety of amenities, including walking trails, benches, a tennis court, a playground, and an off-leash dog area. It's a great place to relax, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the views. The park also has a rich history, having served as a gathering place for the community for over a century. The surrounding Alamo Square Historic District features a remarkable collection of Victorian architecture, largely untouched by urban renewal projects. Beyond the Painted Ladies, the neighborhood boasts architecturally significant mansions, including the William Westerfeld House and the Archbishop's Mansion. The park's central location makes it an easy walk to nearby neighborhoods like Hayes Valley, Lower Haight, and Nopa, where you can explore diverse shops, restaurants, and cafes. Alamo Square has also been featured in numerous movies and TV shows, most notably in the opening credits of the sitcom ''Full House''.

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