Best of 20 parks in San Francisco
Discover the beauty of parks in San Francisco! As a cornerstone of the city's natural landscape, these parks offer a mix of recreational activities and scenic views. From the famous Golden Gate Park to the Presidio, these green spaces showcase the city's cultural and environmental diversity. Don't miss out on the chance to explore the many parks in San Francisco.
- 1. Golden Gate Park
- 2. Dolores Park
- 3. Pioneer Park
- 4. Rincon Park
- 5. Buena Vista Park
- 6. Ina Coolbrith Park
- 7. John McLaren Park
- 8. Lafayette Park
- 9. Glen Canyon Park
- 10. Alta Plaza Park
- 11. Grandview Park
- 12. Corona Heights Park
- 13. Alamo Square
- 14. Jefferson Square Park
- 15. Francisco Park
- 16. Duboce Park
- 17. Fay Park
- 18. Golden Gate Heights Park
- 19. Holly Park
- 20. Jack Early Park
1. Golden Gate Park
Historic windmills, bison paddock

Golden Gate Park is a large urban park located in San Francisco, California. It is one of the city's most popular attractions, offering a variety of activities and sites for visitors of all ages. The park is home to several gardens, including the Conservatory of Flowers and the Japanese Tea Garden, as well as museums such as the de Young Museum and the California Academy of Sciences.
Visitors to Golden Gate Park can enjoy a peaceful walk through its many gardens, take in the beauty of its natural landscapes, or engage in recreational activities such as biking, rollerblading, or golfing. The park is also a great place for families, with playgrounds, picnic areas, and paddle boats available for rent. Whether you're looking for a quiet escape from the city or a fun-filled day outdoors, Golden Gate Park is definitely worth a visit.
2. Dolores Park
Historical landmark with community events

Located between the Mission District and the Castro/Noe Valley neighborhoods, this city park is one of the most popular outdoor spots in the area. On sunny afternoons, it comes to life with people playing, picnicking, lounging, and walking their dogs. The park's western edge is situated in the Mission, and it boasts 16 acres of green space. Its popularity can be attributed to the stunning views of the San Francisco skyline and the surrounding areas.
This popular city park, spanning 16 acres, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Its location in the Mission District, near the Castro/Noe Valley neighborhoods, provides easy access for many. The park offers breathtaking views of the San Francisco skyline and the opportunity to enjoy some fresh air and greenery. The park is a hub of activity during sunny afternoons, with people engaging in various outdoor activities, taking in the views, and spending time with their furry friends.
3. Pioneer Park
Only fog-powered lift in the world

A relatively easy ascent can be had from the sloping Lombard Street, but if you're headed in the opposite direction, be prepared for a more challenging climb up the Greenwich Steps. Once you've reached the bottom, take some time to enjoy the picturesque wharves.
For a more tranquil experience, make your way to Pioneer Park. This well-maintained park is the perfect place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Take a moment to soak in the stunning views of San Francisco that the park has to offer.
4. Rincon Park
Famous- Giant Crab sculpture

Rincon Park is a must-visit destination in San Francisco, located along the Embarcadero. The park is known for its stunning views of the Bay Bridge, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. One of the park's most iconic features is the Cupid's Span sculpture, which depicts a giant bow and arrow. In addition to the artwork, Rincon Park also offers large grassy fields and a promenade, perfect for picnics, relaxation, or a leisurely stroll.
What sets Rincon Park apart is its ability to blend the vibrant energy of San Francisco with moments of peaceful reflection. After a long day of work or sightseeing, the park provides locals with a tranquil retreat to unwind and recharge. At the same time, it offers out-of-town visitors the chance to experience the city's beauty and culture. Overall, Rincon Park is a special place that offers something for everyone, making it a standout destination in San Francisco.
5. Buena Vista Park
Historic landmark since 1867

Buena Vista Park, covering 36 acres, offers a peaceful, tree-filled escape amidst the city. Its history and natural beauty make it a standout spot in San Francisco, although it's not as famous as nearby Golden Gate Park. The park boasts an array of plant life, creating a serene environment for visitors to enjoy.
Despite its name, Buena Vista Park doesn't offer the best views in San Francisco. The abundance of trees and plants within the park can obstruct views, making it difficult to take picturesque photos. However, walking through the park is still an enjoyable experience. The tranquil atmosphere, fresh air, and beautiful trees make for a pleasant stroll, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
6. Ina Coolbrith Park
Historic site with statues and a fountain

Ina Coolbrith Park is a small park in San Francisco that provides excellent views of the city skyline and Bay Bridge. Despite its size, it's a popular spot for visitors looking to enjoy a quick break and take in the stunning scenery. The park is nestled in Russian Hill, surrounded by houses, and offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
To reach the park, you can hike up Taylor St, which will take you to a breathtaking view of the city skyline and the Bay Bridge. Watching the sunrise from this vantage point is a truly memorable experience. The park is named after Ina Coolbrith, who was California's first poet laureate, and her legacy lives on through this beautiful park.
7. John McLaren Park
Horseback riding opportunities

McLaren Park is a hidden gem in the city, boasting 320 acres of beautiful views, hiking trails, and open fields. Despite its ideal location above the Excelsior district and past the Mission, it remains unknown to many or is overlooked due to its remote location. The park offers a multitude of walkable paths and is a popular spot for activities such as pickleball and tai chi during weekends.
However, visitors are advised to exercise caution and avoid the area at night due to safety concerns. Leaving valuables in parked cars is not recommended as it may increase the risk of theft. Despite these concerns, McLaren Park is a great spot to enjoy the outdoors and take in the stunning views of the city. With its many acres of open space, it provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
8. Lafayette Park
Dog-friendly areas

The Lafayette Park, named after the French Marquis Lafayette, is an urban oasis surrounded by grand European mansions on all sides. This park, located in the heart of the city, offers a variety of amenities including tennis courts, barbecue areas, and a dog park, making it a perfect location for different activities.
Whether you're looking to play a fierce game of tennis, enjoy a family barbecue, or watch dogs at play, Lafayette Park has something for everyone. It's also a popular spot for grabbing lunch after a morning of activities, making it a hub of community life in the city. The park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of urban living, while still providing easy access to all the city has to offer.
9. Glen Canyon Park
Historic dam and lake

Glen Canyon Park is a serene oasis nestled within the city, offering well-maintained trails that provide a tranquil retreat from urban life. Its family-friendly paths weave through lush carpets of green, providing a perfect setting for a family outing or a solo hike. The park's terrain varies from rocky boulders popular among climbers to the gentle flow of Islais Creek and fields of wildflowers.
The park's scenic beauty is evident in its diverse landscape, offering a refreshing alternative to city streets. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful ambiance while exploring the park's many trails. Whether it's for a family day out or a quiet solo stroll, Glen Canyon Park offers a unique experience for all to enjoy its natural beauty.
10. Alta Plaza Park
Historic location, popular dog park

The Pacific Heights neighborhood of San Francisco is home to two parks, Lafayette Park and Alta Plaza Park, which have a shared history of providing refuge and serving as safe havens for the community. In 1906, both parks were used as camps for refugees displaced by the earthquake and fire that destroyed much of the city.
Alta Plaza Park is a popular recreational spot for families and children in San Francisco. Its terraced southern slope is accessible by a broad, tiered staircase, making it a great location for outdoor activities. Known as one of the best kid-friendly parks in the city, Alta Plaza Park offers a safe and enjoyable space for children to play and families to gather.
11. Grandview Park
Historic site with beautiful architecture

Grandview Park is a summit in San Francisco that reaches approximately 666 feet high, providing magnificent views of the Bay Area. It's an excellent location to watch the sunset or to find tranquility and seclusion during the day.
The park boasts breathtaking panoramic vistas of northern San Francisco and features beautiful tiled steps that make the journey up the hillworthwhile.
12. Corona Heights Park
Dog-friendly park

Corona Heights Park in San Francisco offers breathtaking views that can be reached by climbing up its trails. Many people visit this park to experience the unobstructed, panoramic view of the City. Besides its stunning vistas, Corona Heights Park is also famous for its wildflower display that covers the grasslands every spring.
Visitors to Corona Heights Park can enjoy the geographic center of San Francisco, which is located on a piece of rock at the top of the hill. The park has some of the best views in the city, and during spring, the grasslands are covered in a beautiful display of wildflowers. It is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature, hiking, and spectacular views.
13. Alamo Square
Dog-friendly, popular filming location

Alamo Square in San Francisco is a must-visit spot, known for its stunning views of the city's iconic painted ladies and Victorian homes. Upon reaching the top, visitors are treated to more than just stunning architecture – the park boasts beautiful flowers and foliage, a charming playground with miniature painted ladies, and areas for dogs to run and play. Visitors can take a break at one of the many seating areas, enjoy a coffee from the nearby coffee truck, or even use the clean restrooms that provide soap and toilet paper. The park is also home to friendly people, making it a great place to socialize and enjoy the outdoors.
However, visitors should be aware of the potential dangers in the area. There are warnings that coyotes have been spotted nearby, so it is important to keep a lookout and not leave any valuables in your car. For fans of the television show Full House, Alamo Square is a particularly special spot, offering a great view of the famous Painted Ladies that were featured prominently in the show's opening credits. The park is also a fantastic place to take a leisurely stroll, with its vast expanse of greenery and beautiful views of the city.
14. Jefferson Square Park
Community garden and playground

Jefferson Square, located in the Western Addition, is a scenic park situated on a hilltop. The park is known for its lush greenery and large trees, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful walk with your dog or simply relaxing and enjoying the shade.
Jefferson Square Park is a great urban park that boasts ample green space and impressive trees. It's a perfect location for unwinding and spending a leisurely afternoon in a natural setting. Whether you're looking to take a stroll, read a book, or just enjoy the outdoors, Jefferson Square Park is an excellent choice.
15. Francisco Park
Historic cable car line nearby

Francisco Park is a newly opened 4.5-acre park in the Russian Hill area of San Francisco. The park boasts native plants and trees, a children's playground, a dog run, ADA-accessible pathways, and a community garden. Its opening in April 2022 has provided a new space for locals and visitors to enjoy the outdoors in one of the city's favorite neighborhoods.
Russian Hill is known for its stunning views, and Francisco Park is no exception. The park offers a wonderful place to relax and take in the scenery, making it an ideal spot for picnics, yoga, or simply enjoying some fresh air. The community garden and dog run add to the park's appeal, creating opportunities for socialization and recreation for people and their furry friends.
16. Duboce Park
Historic Streetcar Turnaround

The Harvey Milk Recreational Arts Center is a bustling community hub that recently underwent renovations. The park's basketball court is a popular spot, and the dog play area is so well-loved that a section of the park is now reserved for humans only, with dogs welcome off-leash. Improvements have been made to the play structures, which now include separate areas for toddlers and older children.
This park has a lot to offer, and it benefits from having supportive neighbors. Currently, dog owners can let their pets run free and socialize with other dogs. There are plenty of poop bag stations available, as well as a water fountain at dog height. The community takes an active role in maintaining the park, including addressing issues such as dogs being off-leash.
17. Fay Park
Donation-based historic site

Fay Park is a garden nestled in the city, spanning three terraces that ascend a hillside block. The terraces are linked by stairs and ramps, featuring stone balustrades, planting beds, and boxwood hedges. The garden's charm is apparent in its small size and pretty flowers, making it an ideal spot for a tranquil pause amidst the urban surroundings.
18. Golden Gate Heights Park
Dog-friendly, popular for paragliding

Golden Gate Heights Park in San Francisco is a hidden gem, boasting stunning views and a serene atmosphere. It's the perfect place for visitors to unwind and connect with nature. The park's well-maintained trails lead to breathtaking vistas, making it an ideal spot for hiking and photography. With its lush greenery and peaceful ambiance, Golden Gate Heights Park offers a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Nestled in the heart of San Francisco, this park boasts awe-inspiring views and an extensive network of hiking trails. Visitors can take in the scenic beauty and enjoy a leisurely walk or a more challenging hike. The park's manicured trails offer a smooth and safe hiking experience for all skill levels. Whether you're looking for a quiet place to unwind or a scenic spot for a hike, Golden Gate Heights Park is a must-visit destination in San Francisco.
19. Holly Park
Scenic views of the Bay Area

Kearstin Krehbiel shares her experience of a small park with a playground and ball field, offering great views and plenty to explore. Another attraction in this park is the newly renovated playground, which has gained recognition from the San Francisco Chronicle for its vibrant, modern play structures, slides, swings, and climbing ropes.
Originally one of the City's oldest public parks, this revitalized green space provides a fresh and lively atmosphere for visitors. The newly designed playground, praised by the San Francisco Chronicle, is a must-see with its modern and engaging play structures, including slides, swings, and climbing ropes for children to enjoy. Additionally, the park features a ball field, offering opportunities for sports and outdoor activities.
20. Jack Early Park
Home to the only double-decker roller coaster in the area

Jack Early Park features a steep staircase surrounded by trees, which leads to a viewpoint overlooking San Francisco Bay and Alcatraz Island. However, the view from the top is not exceptional enough to justify a special trip.
In August 2022, the park was found to be disappointingly locked during a visit on a Friday at 11:30 am. The staircase leads to a senior citizen facility, making the walk down and back up a strenuous exercise with little payoff. It is not recommended to visit.