San Francisco Neighborhoods
Alamo Square
Boasting one of the most photographed areas of San Francisco, the historic district of Alamo Square is anchored by the city park that bears its name. Although relatively small - just four city blocks - the park serves as a lush centerpiece for a neighborhood of spectacular Victorian homes. The "Painted Ladies", on Steiner Street, represent the most famous of the collection and include rich embellishments like garlands, dentils, pilasters, colloneltes, sunbursts, lattices, and turrets. Residents enjoy close proximity to first-rate attractions such as the Civic Center, Opera House, Davies Symphony Hall, and Union Square
Anza Vista
Anza Vista was developed during the 1930's and 1940's. A quiet neighborhood in the Western Addition, the homes, flats and apartments of Anza Vista incorporate sleek, modern lines. Unlike many San Francisco neighborhoods, streets in Anza Vista have little overhead wiring, giving it a quaint and suburban feel. The area's boundaries include Masonic Avenue, Turk Boulevard, Broderick and O'Farrell streets. Anza Vista is near Alamo Square, a park and playground surrounded by Victorian homes.
Ashbury Heights
Includes Parnassus Heights, Corona Heights, Clarenden Heights. South of the heart of the Haight-Ashbury is the community of Ashbury Heights, part of Cole Valley and also known as the "Upper Haight." Uphill from the "the Haight", the terrain rises sharply to encompass several a number of upscale neighborhoods that include Ashbury Heights, Parnassus Heights, Corona Heights, and Clarendon Heights. At the summit is a mini-park called Mt. Olympus, great for dog-walking and picnicking. The neighborhood was originally developed in 1911 as part of a tract called Ashbury Park. This area boasts beautiful hills, winding streets, magnificent trees, and some of the most breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the city. The close proximity of the Pacific Ocean and Golden Gate Park provide a wealth of recreational opportunities, from boating to biking on miles of scenic trails.
Bayview/Hunters Point
Rich in diversity and more affordable housing options, both Bayview and Hunters Point are located on the southeastern side of the city. This area is close to 3-Com Park (formerly Candlestick) and the Navy yard, while Third Street provides a convenient commercial corridor close to home. The housing rises in value in the hills of this neighborhood, mixing older homes with more modern construction. On the south side of 3-Com Park are some of the newest residential developments. Parks and playgrounds dot the area with greenery, and the shoreline around the park offers a state recreation area.
Bernal Heights
Just three miles south of downtown, Bernal Heights is one of the older neighborhoods filled with charm, diversity, and character. Quaint and well-maintained housing crawls over several hills, with a park that includes Bernal Hill serving as the centerpiece. Many of the Victorian and Queen Anne homes have been remodeled, and lush landscaping often graces small but meticulously groomed yards. One of the most pleasing aspects of Bernal Heights is the protection offered by the hills, reducing the fog and brightening the view of the bay and surrounding hills. The community spirit is strong in Bernal Heights, and many of its proud residents consider is a "village" within San Francisco.
Buena Vista Park
Buena Vista Park is adjacent to Ashbury Heights and is the city's most forested area. The summit is 569 feet at its peak and its covers almost 37 acres. The steep slopes are lined with baroque mansions, restored Victorians, family homes, flats and apartments. Buena Vista Park is surrounded by the neighborhoods of Clarendon Heights, Haight-Fillmore, Buena Vista, Twin Peaks, and Haight-Ashbury. Buena Vista Park is accessible to a myriad of recreation and entertainment possibilities.
Castro
Considered the center of alternative living in San Francisco, the Castro district offers some of the most colorful and vibrant settings in the city. The neighborhood's main thoroughfare, Castro Street, is home to many restaurants, alternative bookstores and diverse shops. Architecture in the Castro is contemporary, with Victorians and apartment buildings lining side streets. The Castro is the center for the city's gay and lesbian population.
Chinatown
boasts the largest Asian population outside of Asia. The reality of Chinatown is that there are two Chinatowns : One belongs to the locals, the other charms the tourists. They overlap and dance with each other, drawing more visitors annually than the Golden Gate Bridge. Here you will find hidden temples, sumptuous restaurants and exciting shopping experiences.
Cow Hollow
Tucked between Pacific Heights and the Marina, the historic neighborhood of Cow Hollow received its name for the early dairy meadows that dotted the landscape. Once filled with natural springs, sand dunes and a small lagoon, Cow Hollow is home to many young professionals and is characterized by quaint homes and apartments. At the heart of Cow Hollow is popular Union Street which is lined with fashionable shops and restaurants. A point of interest is the "Octagon House", at Union and Gough, an extraordinary, eight-sided, cupola-topped house that was built in 1861.
Benito Diaz, a Spanish Chaplain, was the first to inhabit this area. In 1845, he petioned the governor for the land and, a year later, sold the area for $1000 in silver to Thomas G. Larkin, a real-estate speculator and dealer in hides. Cow Hollow is named after the dairy farms that comprised the area during the 19 th century. Approximately 30 dairies existed, the largest having more than 200 cows. During the early-part of the century, Cow Hollow's vegetable gardens provided San Francisco with much of its produce.
Crocker Amazon
Claiming its historic roots on land that once belonged to the Crocker Estate, this neighborhood is defined by Amazon and Crocker Avenues as well as Mission Street and Downtown Often called the "heart and soul" of San Francisco, the downtown district encompasses a collection of unique neighborhoods, the Financial District, Chinatown, the Tenderloin, Fisherman's Wharf and Union Square. Downtown offers diversity in culture and lifestyle that includes comfortable, attractive, and convenient housing for professionals and families. Add to this scene a collection of popular entertainment spots, award-winning restaurants, and a wealth of historical sites.
Duboce Triangle
Elegantly restored Victorian homes are the primary attraction to the Duboce Triangle, which is situated near Noe Valley. This ideal location allows residents to enjoy Noe Valley's public transportation facilities, since a BART station is available at 24th Street. 24 th Street also serves as the area's commercial corridor, home to thriving restaurants, coffeehouses, popular pubs, boutiques, and entertainment spots. Mature greenery and the obvious care that residents bring to their properties add to the charm and appeal of this area.
Eureka Valley / Dolores Heights
With the bright retail lights and financial centers of downtown San Francisco only two miles away, this area offers idyllic urban living. Eureka Valley is made up of both flat lands and hills. On the lower slop is the San Francisco archbishop's headquarters, and on the upper is the dramatic pinnacle known as Corona Heights. The natural beauty of the hills forms the backdrop for a wide variety of homes, many of which are elegant Victorians. Residential pride is evident in the care of the housing, properties, and the entire neighborhood. The social atmosphere tends to be open and relaxed. Buses and light rail provide convenience for commuters to downtown employment centers, and the location east of the Twin Peaks offers some protection from fog.
Excelsior/Portola
McLaren Park, one of the city's largest, forms the connection between these two adjacent neighborhoods. Excelsior borders the park on the east and Portola District lies to the north. The area claims a strong Italian influence in its roots, and today's population reflects a pleasing diversity of income levels and cultural backgrounds. Many of the homes are at least 50 years old. Single-family construction of stucco and wood frame over a one or two-car garage is the most common style. Many of the streets in both neighborhoods are lined with attractive and very well-maintained homes that have been remodeled to include a small rental addition. Mission Street serves as a commercial district. Residents who enjoy golfing can step outside their back door to the course in McLaren Park.
Financial District
The financial district is the heart of West Coast finance and banking and home to the Pacific Stock Exchange, the Transamerica Building, the port of San Francisco and the Ferry Building. Residents of the modern condominiums and apartments that sprung up with the advent of the Embarcadero Center can look forward to the weekend Farmer's Market, winter ice-skating, and summer outdoor concerts under starlight skies. Although leading retail and commercial centers such as The Embarcadero dominate this neighborhood, the scenic vistas and beauty of the area have driven new interest in residential development. Luxury apartments and condominiums blend with wonderful restaurants, shops, and attractions. Nearby Jackson Square is converting buildings that date back to the 1800s Gold Rush era into charming antique shops, boutiques, and restaurants.
Forest Hill/West Portal
As early as 1912, the neighborhood of Forest Hill began as lots for single-family homes that were carved from a 4,000-acre ranch owned by the last Mexican mayor of San Francisco, Jose Noe. In 1918, the Twin Peaks tunnel was opened and people started inhabiting the Forest Hill area. Today, Forest Hill is a an exclusive, and beautifully landscaped area with curving lanes, hills and several examples of Bernard Maybeck architecture, including the Forest Hill Clubhouse. The streets and common areas are beautifully maintained by the Forest Hill Association. Mature trees shade single-story homes built over garages or two-story houses with gables and Tudor styling on many streets. Older homes are often remodeled and converted into lovely apartments. The neighborhood features points of interest such as the elegant Grand Pacheco Stairway that connects Magellan Drive to Castenada Avenue. West Portal offers one of the most pleasant shopping districts in the city, a medley of restaurants, salons, coffee shops, antique dealers, and flower shops. Parking is abundant and Muni runs several lines to and from the area.
Glen Park
On the lower slopes of Diamond Heights, just south of Noe Valley, sits the charming and quiet neighborhood of Glen Park. Glen Park was once a dairy capital in the 1850s. The neighborhood features older but elegant Victorians and more modern construction with interesting architectural features, particularly along Laidley Street. Coffee shops, bookstores, pizza parlors and boutiques line Chenery and Diamond Streets. Glen Park feels miles away from downtown San Francisco, but with the BART station at Diamond and Bosworth Streets, residents can reach the city center in 10 minutes. Glen Canyon Park serves as the neighborhood's recreational center, a haven for dogs, Frisbee throwing and picnicking. Highway 280 serves as a boundary that separates Glen Park from the Mission District.
Golden Gate Heights
Also referred to as Larsen Peak or Sunset Heights Park, Golden Gate Heights sits atop a 725-foot-high bluff and is characterized by huge retaining walls and panoramic views of the ocean. Steep streets curve around relatively new and very upscale homes. Quaint dwellings are found facing Forest Hill. Golden Gate Heights is at the top of Funston Avenue, south of the Inner Sunset and west of 7th Ave.
Haight-Ashbury
Named for the famous intersection of Haight & Ashbury Streets - the epitome of the "hippie movement" - this colorful neighborhood preserves a trace of its past in vintage clothing shops and boutiques with psychedelic-era memorabilia. Today, many of the lovely Victorian homes in the Haight have been renovated to serve as duplexes, triplexes, or offices and shops. Students, artists, and a youthful population are still strongly attracted to the Haight. The neighborhood is home to many sidewalk cafes, restaurants and popular night spots. One of the finest amenities near this neighborhood is the Golden Gate Park, with its kaleidoscope of museums, attractions, gardens, and activities. Two other parks are nearby: Buena Vista and Corona Heights. Haight-Ashbury is also famous for its residents of the past, such as Jerry Garcia, the Jefferson Airplane, and Janis Joplin.
Hayes Valley
The small neighborhood of Hayes Valley was part of the Western Addition that was annexed in 1851. Today, Hayes Valley is experiencing a renaissance of new activity and interest. Located near the downtown area, the district is bounded by Larkin Street on the east, Webster on the west, Fulton on the north, and Fell on the south. Within the past two decades, Hayes Valley has emerged as an intimate community with a creative "artsy" flavor and a collection of wonderful shops. There is a great sense of neighborhood pride in Hayes Valley. Residents enjoy close proximity to some of the city's finest amenities, including Davies Symphony Hall, the opera house, and the new main library.
Ingleside/Ocean View
Situated in the southwestern part of the city, the neighborhoods of Ingleside and Ocean View enjoy more sun than the rest of San Francisco. At the entrance to the neighborhood there is a sundial that measures 34 feet in diameter and 28 feet high. Ingleside is close to the Pacific and features good views of Mt. Davidson and San Bruno Mountain. Nearby are San Francisco State University, Stonestown, Shopping Center and Lake Merced. Sloping and steep hills combine in this area, forming small lots for single-family homes that were primarily constructed between the 1900 and 1940. There are many shops and restaurants along Ocean Avenue and beautiful views of Oakland, Alameda and the Golden Gate Bridge at the rock outcropping at Shields and Orizba streets. Recreational amenities are available at Ocean View Park. Interstate 280 is nearby, and BART and bus service are both available for commuters to the downtown district.
Jordan Park
Located near the Children's Hospital, the neighborhood of Jordan Park is bounded by Geary Boulevard, California Street, and Parker Avenue. Homes here tend lo be stately, attractive, and very well maintained Many professionals and executives are drawn to the upscale housing options, finely groomed properties, and handsome streetscape Many physicians and medical technicians find that Jordan's Park offers a pleasing residential neighborhood that allows them to live in close proximity to the hospital.
Merced
As one of the most recent areas to be developed in the city, Lake Merced preserved its rural atmosphere and agricultural flavor well into the 20th century. The shimmering lake, lush golf courses, and natural-habitat zoo make this one of the most scenic living choices within the city. Because so much of the neighborhood reflects newer construction, the environment is visibly clean, neat, and appealing. The close proximity of the Pacific Ocean provides cooling breezes, water sports, and recreational possibilities close to home. Included in the district is the beautiful and sprawling campus of San Francisco State University.
Lake Street
Named for Lake Street, this lovely neighborhood borders the Presidio, Arguello Boulevard, and Sea Cliff for an ideal location. Well-maintained apartment properties and renovated Edwardian homes line many of the streets of this tranquil neighborhood. Unlike many areas of San Francisco, parking in the Lake District is easily accessible. The expanded cultural and recreational amenities of Golden Gale Park are close to home. Residents also take advantage of the boating and water-sport opportunities afforded by their close proximity to the Pacific Ocean
Laurel Heights
The neighborhood centers on the Laurel Village shopping center, which caters not only to residents but also to elite clientele from Pacific Heights and Presidio Heights.
Marina District
Named for its location adjacent to a bayside marina, this affluent residential neighborhood enjoys spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge, refreshing breezes, and elegant homes. Marina Green provides a length of lush grass along the bay for jogging, picnicking, walking, or flying kites. Fort Mason Center serves as a cultural center of museums, art organizations, and performing art productions. Another highlight of this area is the Palace of Fine Arts, a stunning Greco-Romanesque rotunda built in 1915 for the Panama Pacific International Exposition. The Exposition celebrated the opening of the Panama Canal and the recovery of San Francisco from the physical and economic devastation of the 1906 earthquake. Designed by Bernard Maybeck, the Palace became a focal point of the fair. Deeded to the city by the Army after World War II, the once temporary structure fell to ruin. By the 1950's, a movement to save the Palace emerged, and funds were raised to tear down the building and rebuild with permanent materials. Today, the palace hosts a world-class family-oriented science center, the Exploritorium, and a luxurious performing arts theatre. The Marina attracts many seeking the pleasures of jogging, sunbathing or walking by the bay. The Marina Green is a wonderful place to enjoy the outdoors.
McLaren Park
The streets and homes are well kept and attractive. Some of the lanes are beautifully landscaped, and most front yards are meticulously groomed. With the park at the edge of the neighborhood, residents can relax and exercise or just enjoy the serenity of expansive green space close to home.
Mission
The Mission is home to the city's oldest structures, Mission Dolores, the sixth Franciscan Mission along El Camino Real. Located nearby is the ornate Mission Dolores Basilica. Within the Mission area, it is easy to find spicy taquerias, Mexican bakeries and colorful murals depicting Mexican and Latino history. The original Levi Strauss factory is located in this area at 250 Valencia Street. Today, the Mission is a popular area for a mix of working-class Latino families, young professionals, artists and others who enjoy its culturally diverse atmosphere.
Mission Bay
Featuring the new Pacific Bell Park stadium, home of the SF Giants, and a bustling marina, the Mission Bay neighborhood offers opportunities for waterfront living with outstanding views of the Bay Bridge. Vistas of the boats bobbing in McCovey Cove combine with a cozy "downtown" feeling, a stunning skyline, and the bay's balmy weather in this unique district. The magnificent new ballpark infuses vitality and excitement, both visually and in its ability to draw enthusiastic and friendly crowds. Housing choices include high-rise condominiums that take advantage of the area's superb views and offer luxurious amenities.
Mt. Davidson Manor
As Portola winds up the hill and begins descending westward, the neighborhood of Mount Davidson comes into view. Single-family houses with driveways line the quiet streets, marking a more tranquil and less dense enclave within the city. Mount Davidson Manor sits atop the tallest hill in San Francisco at 938 feet and from the lovely Mount Davidson Park, there is an unparalleled 360-degree vista of the city. Interstate 280 and downtown attractions are easily accessible from this convenient location. Although many homes in this area were built prior to World War II, they tend to be meticulously maintained and many enjoy scenic vistas of San Bruno Mountain.
Nob Hill
At the top of California Street lies Nob Hill, the site on which San Francisco's early millionaires - Gold Rush tycoons and railroad barons - built their mansions. In fact, the very term "Nob Hill" has become synonymous with great wealth and riches. Today, the neighborhood is known for offering some of the city's finest hotels: The Fairmont, the Huntington, and the Mark Hopkins. Another architectural landmark of Nob Hill is Grace Cathedral, a replica of Notre Dame in Paris. Huntington park is the centerpiece of this exquisite neighborhood. As you might expect, residents and guests of the hill enjoy unparalleled views of the bay area and the Golden Gate.
Noe Valley
One of the city's most bucolic neighborhoods, it was once part of a 4,000 acre ranch called Rancho San Miguel. Today, lovely two-story Victorians are common, and the hills that surround the valley give it a delightful feeling of remoteness from the city. "Noe" is centered around 24 th St, with a delightful array of coffee shops, boutiques, bookstores and ethnic restaurants. The Valley is named after Jose de Jesus Noe, a Spanish colonist who formed the Hyar and Padres colony in 1884. Noe was also the last Mexican mayor of San Francisco. Numerous Irish and German immigrants moved into the Valley before the turn-of-the-century and the influence is evident in the Irish Pubs and specialty food stores lining 24 th St. Many families with young children have since moved into Noe Valley, attracted by the lovely homes and the comfort of being nestled into the scenic hills.
North Beach
Well-known for its Italian heritage, Mediterranean flavor, and exciting nightlife, North Beach is one of the favored residential areas for young professionals. Washington Square forms a centerpiece for the neighborhood, overlooked by the majestic white towers of the Church of Saints Peter and Paul. Every dawn, Washington hosts a group of people greeting the day with the practice of Tai Chi. First settled by Italian immigrants in the 1870's and later populated by a range of nationalities, North Beach exemplifies San Francisco 's diverse populace. The main attractions of North Beach are its retaraunts, traditional cafes and Italian delicatessens. The oldest street in the city, Grant Avenue, extends from Chinatown into North Beach where its Chinese eateries and shops are transformed to Barbary Coast saloons, second-hand shops, pizza parlors and clothing boutiques.
Pacific Heights
Pacific Heights offers blocks of turn-of-the-century Victorians, including the landmark Haas-Lihenthal House at 2007 Franklin Street and panoramic views of the Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. The neighborhood is loosely bordered by Van Ness and Presidio avenues and Pine and Vallejo streets and was first colonized by the nouveau riche of the late 1800s when the construction of a new cable-car line made the area accessible the extravagant dwellings that characterize the district today stand as testimony to the desire of those early residents to impress their Nob Hill neighbors. Most of the activity in Pacific Heights is centered around Fillmore Street with its chic boutiques, cafes and abundant people-watching opportunities. For outdoor recreation, head to Alta Plaza Park, Lafayette Park or the steps at Broadway and Lyon.
Parkside
Newcomers who are looking for a neighborhood with a true community spirit and feeling may want to consider Parkside. Parallel to Pine Lake Park and Stern Grove, this area is home to playgrounds and a meadow-like playing field at McCopping Square. Elementary schools offer additional playgrounds and sports fields. Single-family residences predominate in Parkside, adding to the stable and friendly family-oriented atmosphere. The active Sunset Neighborhood Coalition, the Sunset Beach newspaper, the world-class University of California, San Francisco Medical Center, the number of high schools and proximity to San Francisco State Universtiy add to Parkside's appeal for many families. Ninth Avenue and Irving Street provide an array of coffee houses, eateries and boutiques.
Potrero Hill
Potrero Hill sits south of 16 th Street and is framed by Potrero Avenue, Cesar Chavez and Highway 280. The neighborhood has a community feel all its own; including its own weekly newspaper, the Potrero View. Pleasant window shopping and café dining is popular with locals. The Potrero Hill Neighborhood House has existed for almost a century and is used by residents for various occasions, such as town meetings and recitals.
This area of the city gets more sun than most and has attracted a lively mix of professionals and artists. Residences are comprised of free-standing houses (many built in Victorian architecture), town homes, flat-style condominiums, warehouse spaces, lofts and multi-unit buildings. Many enjoy outstanding city views from the 300-foot high hill.
Potrero Hill
is rich in history, originally serving as farmland until the 1870's, when immigrants ‑ Scottish, Irish and Italian-began populating the area. In the early 20th century, Potrero Hill was known as Scottish Hill.
Presidio Heights
Located just west of Pacific Heights and adjacent to the Presidio, Presidio Heights is a small enclave of elegant homes. This are was first developed after the 1906 earthquake, therefore the architectural style of the homes is mostly Edwardian. It is a short walk to the fashionable shops of Union and Chestnut streets. Some of San Francisco 's most prestigious families and dignitaries live here.
Richmond
Sometimes referred to as the Park-Presidio, This northwestern corner of the city is bounded on three sides by some of the richest open space and recreational resources available to any metropolitan community. Elegant neighborhoods mix with a wonderful shopping district along Clement Street, where Chinese, Russian, and artistic elements intermingle. To the north is Lincoln Park, crowned by the Palace of The Legion of Honor and the sweeping greens of the golf course. The Richmond encompasses the University of San Francisco, bringing the excitement and intellectual stimulation of a "college town" to the area. Well-kept older homes from 1900 to 1940 predominate, many with living rooms over the garage. A wide mix of architectural styles can be found along tree-lined streets, with many 1920's duplexes and a few spacious Edwardians. Boasting some of the many landmarks in the city, the Richmond is home to the dome of the Temple Emanu-El, a Reform synagogue, and the Russian Holy Virgin Cathedral.
Russian Hill
Just west of North Beach and east of the Marina, Russian Hill offers outstanding views of San Francisco Bay and downtown. A cable-car line begins at the base of Hyde Street, traveling up Russian and Nob Hills and terminating at Fisherman's Wharf. Russian Hill is home to the world-famous Lombard Street that winds down the hill to the Marina. Locals congregate on Polk Street with its restaurants, bars, fruit and flower markets.
Saint Francis Wood
Built in the 1910s on the southwest side of San Francisco, the neighborhood of Saint Francis Wood offers an atmosphere of luxury and elegance. Fountains and ornate gateways combine with Eucalyptus shade trees and towering pines. The utility lines are underground, evidence that planners intended to create a distinctive home environment. The beautifully landscaped curving lanes lead to distinguished, grand-scale homes. The housing styles are varied, harmonizing those with a Spanish Revival flavor with architecture reminiscent of New England. John Galen Howard, the noted Beaux Arts-era architect, designed the gates at the St. Francis Boulevard-Portola Drive entry, as well as the fountain in the circular plaza on St. Francis Boulevard.
Sea Cliff
attracts many sightseers wanting to see the beautiful mansions and beaches in the area. China and Baker beaches are situated where the Golden Gate meets the Pacific Ocean. Sea Cliff's residences are located just above sea level and offer beautiful views of the ocean.
Sherwood Forest
Along the southwestern slope of 925-foot Mount Davidson is the neighborhood of Sherwood Forest. Home to elaborate ranch-style homes graced by groves of aromatic Eucalyptus, cypress, and pine trees, this area provides a scenic and pleasing atmosphere. Students of all ages can enjoy close proximity to the campus for The City College of San Francisco. Ocean Avenue is the closest shopping area to Sherwood Forest. The wooded park at the top of the mountain is ideal for recreation close to home.
South Beach
South Beach encompasses the lively Embarcadero, South Park, the newly constructed Muni Metro extension and is close to Pacific Bell Park in nearby Mission Bay. The Embarcadero, with its waterfront sidewalks, draws skateboarders, lunchtime joggers and tourists enjoying the bay view. South Park (off 2 nd Street) was developed in 1852 to resemble a London Square. Today, the area hosts many high-tech companies, design firms and other businesses in the lofts around the center. Cafes, chic restaurants and boutiques line South Park as well.
South of Market
South of Market (SoMa) is one of the richest historical areas in the city, and today, has a character all its own. In the early 20 th century, the city blocks of SoMa were made larger than those north of Market to facilitate development of the city's industrial, utility and transportation hub. Although the wealthy migrated to Rincon Hill for the views of the bay, the majority of SoMa remained industrial.
Today, SoMa is the creative center of San Francisco. Culture abounds in SoMa, with the Yerba Buena Center, the city's modern and beautiful Moscone Convention Center, SFMOMA (San Francisco Museum of Modern Art), the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, the Ansel Adams Museum of Photography and more. Shopping is plentiful in SoMa with boutiques and specialty stores sprinkled throughout. By night, SoMa bustles with cool and hip restaurants and night-clubs, many hosting nightcrawlers until the wee hours of the morning. Residential buildings in SoMa are mostly town homes, flat-style condos,warehouse spaces, lofts and multi-unit buildings.
Stonestown, Lakeshore
Located on the Pacific on the southern border of San Francisco, Lakeshore was the last neighborhood in the city to be developed. Home of one of the most famous of San Francisco's premier shopping destinations, the Stonestown Galleria, the Lakeshore area also encompasses the beautiful campus of San Francisco State University. With 27,000 students, the university infuses a "college town" atmosphere that includes eclectic shops and lively cafes, athletic events, and a full complement of cultural and performing arts events. Recreational amenities and entertainment possibilities are exceptional in this southern location, with easy access to the Pacific Ocean, downtown San Francisco, Lake Merced, golf courses, and a shore park. The area has mostly apartment housing, but there are also small tracts, condos and single-family homes.
Sunset
The Sunset is located just south of Golden Gate Park, north of Sloat Boulevard and framed by Stanyan Street and Ocean Beach. Commercial areas include 9th Avenue, Judah Street, Sloat Boulvevard, Noriega and Taraval Streets, where many ethnic specialty stores, coffee shops, Irish pubs and the like line the bustling streets. The Sunset is also home to Shriner's Hospital and San Francisco's Conservatory of Music.
The Sunset is one of the foggiest places in San Francisco, thanks to its location near Ocean Beach. The Inner Sunset is a bit sunnier, from 19 th Avenue eastward. Many students populate this area, while Outer Sunset ( 19 th Avenue and westward) is populated by many senior citizens and Asian-American families.
Telegraph Hill
Coit Tower, a 180-foot tower resembling a fire-hose nozzle, sits authoritatively at the top of Telegraph Hill. The tower, built in 1933, was a gift to the city from Lillie Hitchcock Coit, who requested the monument be built in honor of the firemen at Knikerbocker Engine Co. The hill was originally referred to as "Signal Hill" when a semaphore system was installed to alert residents that a boat was coming through the Golden Gate. In 1850, the Maria Telegraph replaced the semaphore, and the area was renamed Telegraph Hill.
By the end of the 19 th Century, the area was still ethnically diverse with large populations of Irish, Italians, Germans, Spanish, and Portuguese. Because the hill was surrounded by the fishing and shipping industries, the neighborhood had never been home to the wealthy. With the building of Coit Tower, the hill became automobile accessible. Consequently, Telegraph Hill became an expensive neighborhood for those seeking panoramic views of the bay.
Tenderloin
Despite its bad rap, the Tenderloin is an up and coming neighborhood with some of cheapest and tastiest restaurants in the city.
Twin Peaks
Named for two hills reaching approximately 910 feet each, Twin Peaks offers the most panoramic views of the city and the bay. Some homes on the northern crest of Twin Peaks resemble Spanish villas, while the eastern side has mainly apartment houses. In recent decades, the southern slopes have seen development of single-family homes that face San Bruno Mountain and the ocean. Mt. Davidson, at approximately 940 feet, is the city's highest point and is located just south of Twin Peaks.
Union Square
For shopping, nightlife, theater, art galleries and some of the city's finest hotels and restaurants, head for Union Square. Union Square also refers to an actual park that underwent a $25 million facelift, transforming one of San Francisco's oldest patches of greenery into a wide open space for tourists and locals alike.
Western Addition
The Western Addition includes the plateau west of Civic Center, stretching west to Masonic and Presidio avenues. Victorian houses, many restored, dominate the area's architecture. Sights include the musically historic Fillmore Auditorium. Western Addition is in walking distance of Davies Symphony Hall, downtown and San Francisco 's main library.
In the 1960s and 1970s, redevelopment took hold of the Western Addition and many decaying Victorians gave way to massive apartment complexes near Geary Avenue. More changes are on the way, as the Fillmore Street area of Western Addition was recently declared a Jazz Preservation District, with federal funding moving in to restore galleries, music and dance clubs.