Alamo Square

In 1856, San Francisco mayor James Van Ness set aside nearly 13 acres atop an area known as Alamo Hill, mandating that it be used as public open space. Because of its location, the park became known as Alamo Square.

The area for Alamo Square was largely chosen because of its incredible location high above the city. Locals say it’s often the windiest part of the city. Others tout the incredible view – which is undeniable. Some say viewing the sunrise or sunset from the Alamo Square Park is second to none.

However, most people come to see the Painted Ladies, also sometimes known as the Six Sisters. For Americans over 30, these magnificent Victorian homes are easily recognizable from the opening moments of the 1990s sitcom, Full House. For other visitors, however, they are simply recognized as exquisite homes painted in colorful hues, incredibly well-preserved and a joy to view. You can find the homes facing the park on Steiner Street. Don’t forget your camera!

Of course, from the right vantage point in Alamo Square Park, you can also view some of the city’s other famous sites, including the Golden Gate Bridge, the Oakland Bay Bridge, the Transamerica Pyramid, City Hall, and several other notable buildings and structures. The park also contains tennis courts and a playground and is quite popular with dog owners. You might even stumble upon some sort of doggie special event while you’re visiting, such as a dog show.

In general, the neighborhood known as Alamo Square is one of the best-preserved areas in the city, thanks to a diligent neighborhood association that makes it their job to maintain the historical integrity of the area. Residents are diverse, ranging from young people who enjoy renting in this area to upper middle-class homeowners who’ve made their home here for decades.

A number of small businesses, including restaurants and bars, have sprung up in the area over the last decade, providing a bevy of nightlife opportunities for locals and visitors. For the most part, chain stores are prohibited from opening locations in the Alamo Square area in order to maintain the architectural integrity of the neighborhood.