Alta Plaza Park: A Pacific Heights Jewel
Panoramic views, vibrant gardens, and recreational activities abound at this Pacific Heights hilltop park, a true San Francisco gem.
Capping the western edge of Pacific Heights, Alta Plaza Park offers panoramic city and bay views from its terraced slopes. Once a rock quarry, this 12-acre park, designed by John McLaren, features lawns, gardens, tennis courts, and a playground, making it a popular recreation spot for locals and tourists alike.
A brief summary to Alta Plaza Park
- Jackson St. &, Steiner St, San Francisco, Pacific Heights, CA, 94115, US
- +1415-831-5500
- Visit website
- 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
- Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy the stunning views of the city and bay from the park's grassy areas.
- Take a stroll along Fillmore Street before or after your visit to explore its many shops, cafes, and restaurants.
- If you're looking for a workout, climb the grand staircase on the southern side of the park.
- Visit the park in the late afternoon to witness a spectacular sunset over the city.
Getting There
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Public Transport
Alta Plaza Park is accessible via several San Francisco Municipal Railway (Muni) bus lines. From downtown, take the 1, 22, or 24 bus to the California St & Pierce St stop, which is a 2-minute walk from the park. A single ride on Muni costs $3.00 cash or $2.85 with a Clipper card or MuniMobile. A day pass is available for $5.70 via MuniMobile, offering unlimited rides on Muni buses, trains, and streetcars.
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Walking
From Fillmore Street, a popular shopping and dining destination, walk west on Clay Street for two blocks to Pierce Street. Turn left and walk two blocks to Pierce and you will be facing the grand staircase leading up Alta Plaza Park. The walk is moderately uphill. Be aware that the area is known for its steep hills.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout San Francisco. A short ride from Fisherman's Wharf or Union Square to Alta Plaza Park typically costs between $15 and $25, depending on traffic and demand. Be sure to confirm the fare estimate before you start your trip.
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Driving
Driving to Alta Plaza Park is possible, but parking in the surrounding Pacific Heights neighborhood can be challenging. There is no on-site parking at the park. Street parking is primarily metered, with rates varying from $2 to $4 per hour. Be sure to read parking signs carefully to avoid tickets. The closest parking is at 2655 Clay Street, San Francisco.
Discover more about Alta Plaza Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pacific Heights
0.4 km
Discover the elegance and breathtaking views of Pacific Heights, San Francisco's premier neighborhood filled with stunning architecture, boutique shopping, and gourmet dining.
Fillmore Street Stairs
0.4 km
Ascend the historic Fillmore Street Stairs in Pacific Heights for stunning city views, architectural charm, and a unique San Francisco experience, connecting the Marina District to Billionaire's Row.
Bush Street-Cottage Row Historic District
0.7 km
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.
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.
Chambers Mansion
0.7 km
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Vollmer House
0.7 km
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Stanyan House
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Spreckels mansion
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Bush Street Temple (Soto Mission)
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Atherton House
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Union St
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Tobin House
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California Historical Landmark 760: Laurel Hill Cemetery Site
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C. A. Belden House
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Victorian Home Walk
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Unmissable attractions to see
Lyon Street Steps
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The Fillmore
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Japantown
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Golden Gate Bridge Bike Rentals
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Peace Pagoda
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Andy Goldsworthy's Wood Line
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San Francisco Ghost Hunt Walking Tour
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Chestnut St
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Haas-Lilienthal House
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Bike & View San Francisco Bicycle Rentals & Tours
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Lovers’ Lane at the Presidio
1.3 km
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Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption
1.3 km
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Yoda Fountain
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Shanghai Kelly's
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Essential places to dine
Atelier Crenn
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State Bird Provisions
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The Progress
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Spruce
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Acquerello
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Street Restaurant and Bar
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Nopa
1.8 km
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Son and Garden
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Brenda's French Soul Food
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Suppenküche
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Petit Crenn
1.9 km
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Monsieur Benjamin
2.0 km
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a Mano
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Chez Maman West
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Absinthe Brasserie & Bar
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
FRAME
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post.script.
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Nikoniko Gifts
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Current
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Button Down
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One Half
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Picnic
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Molte Cose
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Stuff
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The Perish Trust
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Rare Device
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Reliquary
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Metier
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Kozy Kar
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Rye Cocktail Bar
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Bourbon & Branch
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Owl Tree
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Persona
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Cityscape
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Pacific Cocktail Haven
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Last Drop Tavern
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Bodega North Beach
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Clock Bar
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