From Alamo Square Park a mile and a half north you can see the top of what locals call its "sister park", Alta Plaza in tony Pacific Heights. Alta Plaza has a storied history in San Francisco cinema including a filming location of Palme d'Or winner, Francis Ford Coppola's "The Conversation" with Gene Hackman, Robert Duvall (in another uncredited role in 1970s cinema), John Cazale and Harrison Ford. Alta Plaza appears in the dream sequence with surveillance expert Hackman as Harry Caul, fearing his work is endangering the lives of two people. Look at the concrete steps and see the visible chips from damage done by a car chase scene from the Peter Bogdanovich's madcap comedy, "What's Up, Doc". Beautiful views, a children's park, three tennis courts, basketball courts and a dog run complete with Pug Day play dates, my professional dog walker neighbor had a little group that met up here. And, you might run into SFPD on their Suzuki motorcycles, the final test before they get their shields: They have to navigate the steep inclines on motorbike to pass. Beautiful sights, park setting, recreational opportunities and film history, Alta Plaza is a notable spot for locals and visitors alike. read more

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I really like this park because not only is it not that crowded because of being a smaller park in the city, but also it has some amazing views over the city ! In parts of the park, you can also see the ocean. There's a playground here, tennis courts, a large field, and restrooms. If you're getting there by foot, be prepared to get a work out because it is very uphill. That being said, I also see people workout at this park, primarily running up and down the stairs on one side of it. My partner and I have enjoyed coming here to picnic before, too. Also, if you do happen to want to park here, I don't recall parking being too difficult as you could probably find some street parking in the neighborhoods nearby. read more

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Because of my pup, I climbed many stairs, hills, and muddy paths so that he can sniff something. Because of my pup, my clothes are now always proudly sporting paw prints and lots of loose fur. Because of my pup, treat bags, poop bags, and water bottles are part of my daily gear. Because of my pup, I now go to parks more and malls less though I do like a good sale. So Alta Plaza is a fun park for all types of people and pets. On a sunny day, we like to picnic here and hangout with other pups. My fur baby is happiest when he's hanging out with his peers. Nothing like a happy butt sniff session and chasing each other to get him all excited. I love to practice my photography skills by taking photos of his happy face. Great park, well maintained, great view, can be quite windy, so dressed appropriately. read more

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Great park in a tranquil neighborhood. This park is dog friendly with plenty of ground for your dog companions to stretch its paws and meet others. No leash require. The grounds are kept very clean. Wish there were doggie bags and more trash bins near by. There is a kids playground nearby and sporting area like tennis. Since this park is up the hill, it's an amazing view. There's plenty of street parking and the area seem to be safe with little traffic. We came on a good day and the views were great. read more

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This is the greatest community park! I live fairly close and am always walking through to go places. It's only 1 block away from Fillmore so there are a plethora of choices to go to get coffee or lunch to bring to the park for a picnic. It's on a hill with different levels and awesome panoramic views, basically choose your own view (remember those Choose Your Own Adventure books?). I prefer the benches facing the north where I can look out at the bay and see cargo ships going by. The park has a lot to offer, tennis courts, basketball court, playground, a staircase to do stair repetitions or some good exercise, plenty of benches, views, and a lot of grassy areas. In the spring the northern grassy part is full of little daisies and in early-mid February there are a few plum blossom trees in bloom (VERY similar looking to Cherry Blossom trees but different and bloom earlier) which are beautiful and colorful. It's a great park with something for everyone. read more

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If you are looking for park that isn't too crazy party focused like Dolores or Fort Mason, Alta Plaza Park is a great place to relax, soak up the sun, and hang out with friends and family. There's a tennis court and basketball court if you are into that kinda thing. There's only 1 court, so it's hit or miss on the timing. Plus a playground for the kiddos and plenty of greenery to put a blanket down. There's plenty of benches along the south side of the park, and with a giant staircase that's great for cardio. There's a singular bathroom which is kinda gross tbh, but it gets the job done. For the dog owners out there, there's a lot of off-leash activity here. So if you are a dog owner who isn't a huge fan of random dogs running up to your dog, this might not be a good park for you. Although in my experience the owners are pretty responsible and have been pretty friendly. If your pup needs water, there's a dog fountain located next to the bathroom. Overall, fun park to gather with friends. Definitely look out for random dog droppings before setting a blanket down. Best to come early because the afternoons get windy. read more

One of my favorite parks in San Francisco. The walk to get there was steep but worth it. We cruised by this park on our way to lunch on Fillmore. We didn't get to the entire park but as others have noted, the views are fabulous. There's tons of grassy spots to sit and hang out. It is super dog friendly so beware of off leash pups. read more

Smack in the middle of Pacific Heights is Alta Plaza Park. This park has hilly terrain that's why it's designed in terrace like levels. Stair climbers this is your challenge! Run up those Pierce Street stairs. It'll have you huffing & puffing when you get to the top. Your reward is an amazing Southern vista of the City! University of San Francisco to the West. Tops of St. Dominic's Church to the South. And soaring Pac Heights condo's East & North. This park has a fabulous kids play area, tennis courts, sprawling lawns. Nannies & their charges stroll through. Parents with kids play games. Exercisers with their trainers are hitting the dirt and concrete. The park is so nicely maintained it's begging you to do the same. Stop by and check this park out. It'll leave you in a mellow mood with a heart filled with gratitude of San Francisco's park planners & nature's bounty. read more

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This Park is definitely our Fur Buddy Favorite Park. When we walk him around our neighborhood he would just find a way to walk here. Our Buddy get to see his friends here. we get to talk to dog owners too..More of a Local Dog owners walking their dog Place...The PARK is well Maintained . Their Bathrooms is constantly Cleaned...Kudos to the Maintenance Crew...Dog Owners clean would always clean their Buddy after their Business..(Responsible Dog Owners)...One or Two i see Dog Walkers with lots of dogs .If its a miss and didn't pick up their Dog's Business..I'll Pick it . After all its our Local Park... read more

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gorgeous views of the city, day or night. it's really dark at night so make sure you are careful walking up the stairs. read more

Alta Plaza Park - Parks Near Me - San Francisco, California

Very cool medium sized park-lots of steps if entering from the south. Can see the bridge/bay but also mount sutro. Theres a nice playground and some flat grass areas. read more

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A pretty nice park for several reasons. The park is very spacious with various paths for you to go on. The design is like hills mixed with tiers. On the areas that are tier layered, there are sets of stairs- great for those who like to do them for workouts. As mentioned, everything is spacious, even the stair sets are wide so there's not much worry about running into people much. Quite a few people come by to walk or bring their dogs. At the top I saw some tennis courts and a playground for the kids. Plenty of benches around if you just want to chill. The view from above is nice especially when the skies are clear. Stop by and check it out some time! read more

Alta Plaza Park - Playground and benches - Parks Near Me - San Francisco, California

Perfect spot for a picnic, plenty of grass for the kids to run around, and the views are legit! Totally recommend this for families, couples, singles - anyone who is tired of sitting at home and needs a reminder of how lucky they are to be so close to the combo of glistening water and tall skyscrapers, and everything in between. Perched on a hill, Alta Plaza offers beautiful views of the Bay on one side, and a birds eye view of the City on the other. We came here on a Saturday around 12:30pm and brought lunch to have a picnic on the hill. We were pleasantly surprised that even though there seemed to be a lot of people, there was more than enough grass and benches for everyone to enjoy. Definitely bring a jacket, because it can get a little chilly up there. The playground is on the other side of the hill and it's spacious! We have a 10 year old, and a 3 year old, and they both enjoyed the separate play structures. read more

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A beautiful park that gives great views of both the bay and the city. Come during golden hour and you will not be disappointed by the beautiful vistas. There's also a really great playground set should you have kids. Ample room to picnic too. read more

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This is one of San Francisco's beautiful outdoor green spaces. Alta Park is a combination huge lawn area for laying out a blanket and picnicking, beautiful views of the city, and a playground for the kids. on a breezy day it can be a few degrees colder here than a few blocks away on Fillmore Street. while this park was most likely designed for the locals, I recommend it as a stop on a cross San Francisco hike for tourists and locals alike. And if you've got a dog bring him. read more

I went to San Francisco with my husband in November, and we spent a Sunday afternoon wandering around and visiting various parks. We walked through Alta Plaza Park and sat on a bench for a while, enjoying the view. The park was hilly and green, with beautiful views of the city. It was pretty quiet compared to other parks I've seen in San Francisco. We didn't see that many people, only a few here and there passing through with their dogs. I don't think we went through the whole park (I don't remember the playground, for example), but I liked what I saw of it and was glad we stopped to sit down and take in the calm atmosphere and the lovely sights. I'd recommend Alta Plaza Park if you want a nice place to breathe for a spell. read more

Almost don't want to write this review because it seems to be such a quiet, hidden gem. The perfect spot to chill after an intense work day surrounded by the hustle and bustle of downtown SF. This park is just a few steps away from the shops and restaurants of Fillmore and features a multiple tiers, which perches it high enough to get an incredible view of the San Francisco skyline. The tiers and its stairs make it a great spot to get some cardio in. We went at about 7pm on a Wednesday and were able to watch the sunset and frolicking pups around us (yes, it's dog friendly!). We saw the cutest puppers here. There's a playground so it's a great neighborhood family destination too. There's a clean enough bathroom at the top of the park with one stall for the ladies. Can't wait to go back for a picnic. read more

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Great place to take kids or dogs. Lots of open space and grass and a nice playground. But the BEST part of this park are the AMAZING views. On a clear day you can see the Transamerica tower, the cathedral at USF and the hills in the outer Sunset - which is not to mention the really cool San Francisco houses in the area. I do not personally have kids or dogs. I just go for the views. :) read more

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Love, love, love this park!! Clean and spacious with beautiful views of the city! Fully fenced area for the kids to safely play in. Sand pit, slides, swings and other climbing structures. Basketball and tennis courts. Clean bathrooms. Water fountain for humans and dogs. Plenty of room for your canine friend to frolic off leash and meet up with new, and old, four legged friends. If you have kiddos, fur-babies, or just want a nice spot to soak up sun and views ... this is the park for you! read more

Alta Plaza Park - "Oliver" enjoying the park! - Parks Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Great neighborhood park that essentially is constructed like a pyramid (as you get closer to the center, you'll need to go up on an incline). As a result, may not be best for individuals with mobility issues. Seems to be a popular spot for dog walkers and kids (playground at the top). There's a few benches and tables that can be a good picnic spot. Views of the city are fantastic! read more

Alta Plaza Park - Parks Near Me - San Francisco, California

This is a nice, clean park close to all the restaurants on Fillmore street. It's a great spot for eating your takeout. It's spacious with lots of grassy areas, some shady spots and benches. I do wish there were more tables to eat at though. Make sure you go all the way to the top for a nice view! read more

Alta Plaza Park - Parks Near Me - San Francisco, California

Now this is a city park to love. Who wouldn't want to live near a park like this? Either give me the lively cacophony of Washington Square Park in the Village in NYC or give me the tranquility and spectacular views of this one. You can leave the rest to the young moms and agile dogwalkers who just need a path to pick up their poop (hopefully). I meant the dogwalkers or more specifically, the dogs they're walking, the dogwalkers themselves and the moms I don't know. Maybe. It's quite a climb up Fillmore to get here, at least it was for me and Jamie W. since we didn't bother getting on a MUNI. We were more interested in hitting five digits with our FitBits. Anyway, Alta Plaza is a four-square-block patch of greenery laid out on multiple levels with three hard surface tennis courts (...it's Pac Heights after all) and a small playground in its center. The terraced lawns on the southern half is really the best part because you get a panoramic view of how the 1% live. OK, maybe the 3%. On the northern side is the prospect of walking down Pierce to the Marina, a steep climb down among the wealthy residents who clearly have servants who carry them down to Lombard Street. BTW, did you know the reason the steps here are chipped is because Peter Bogdanovich filmed the chase scene in "What's Up, Doc?" with Barbra Streisand and Ryan O'Neal's VW bug here? So blame Barbra, you Republicans. read more

Alta Plaza Park - Bucolic scene - Parks Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Nice park at the top of the hill. Easily accessible. Great place to take a walk after bunch in the nearby restaurants. Plenty of dogs (unleashed) on the north side of the park (next to Jackson street?). read more

Alta Plaza Park - plenty of dogs in the park - Parks Near Me - San Francisco, California

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There is nothing like being on top of the world and looking down on everything around you. My one visit to Alta Plaza Park literally took my breath away. First from the uphill walk to the park. Then from the 50 to 75 steps one climbs to get to the main level. And finally from the majestic, cloud-shrouded views of the city around me. I get an ache of sadness knowing that my city doesn't have these views. We lugged a parcel of pastries from nearby b. Patisserie, found a pleasant sun-drenched bench, and gobbled up a kouign amann while watching surprisingly great tennis. My lucky day to catch two former collegiate female players and their perfect strokes. Tennis courts, oh yes tennis courts. Three courts I believe. Ahh...I am a sucker for beautiful tennis courts. How I wished I had my racquet with me. One day, you beautiful courts perching on the top of San Francisco...one day I will be back to play you. We never made it to the uppermost level of the park, but it looked like a tree shaded pinnacle with some more benches, and provided a bit more distance from the babble of noises from the playground. read more

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What a great park! Not only is it very popular with the kiddos--the swings, the slides, the monkey bars--but the mom's and dad's looked to be having a fun time themselves. After all, the view is spectacular, looking down across the city, relaxing as the sun sets. Strollers skirting the jungle gyms, hemmed in by the picnic tables and the fencing. That's right, picnic tables! The park is perfect for having a light lunch while also letting the little ones wear themselves out, and isn't that what you've really come for, tired parents? This place will do it. You'll even get a bit fresh air and exercise yourself. read more

Alta Plaza Park - Parks Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Not crowded! Love the ocean view! Very chilled, great place to bring ur food and drink just to have a cozy afternoon there read more

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Not as well known or as sexy as Alamo Square but if you like cool breezes and good views this park is a great respite.

Love this park for so many reason. The view of the city is amazing at any location in the park. The stairs are a great workout. The playground is perfect For kids of all ages. The park is within walking distance to some superb restaurants. Most importantly , parking is abundant. Everyone is pretty friendly here too. Lots of dog owners and I've seen a ton of Vizslas! read more

My new backyard, how can I not give 5 stars? It's the view, the proximity, the stairs that make a pretty good workout, the many dog stalking opportunities, the view, and did I mention the view? This has easily become my favorite place in San Francisco so far. Sort of like a major crush. Even when I'm not there, I cannot stop thinking about it. And if there was food there, I'd seriously be in love. But for now, it's all I need to take a short break from life. read more

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I review restaurants, Ruggles reviews dog food stores. I review clubs, Ruggles reviews parks. And Ruggles gives Alta Plaza Park 5 stars! We stopped by Alta Plaza yesterday even though it was raining because we were in the area. We played lots of throw, catch, and chase with the ball and met nice families and nice other dogs. Ruggles wished he could play on the colorful, fancy play structure but seemed pretty satisfied playing with his slobbery, muddy ball. The grass was lush and he enjoyed tons of wide-open space all to himself. I enjoyed the great views and the availability of clean restroom facilities. We definitely plan to be back! read more

I stumbled upon this park at night - awhile back with a friend and fell in love. Looming amove the city with an unparalleled view of San Francisco in it's dazzling evening lit glory - Alta Plaza Park takes on a surreal quality. They have it all -from basketball courts, tennis courts, a sturdy jungle gym - which is well matched for older kids, and a vast expanse of land for dogs to frolic in. I plan on coming back here soon to practice some night-pull ups on the monkey bars. Trust. read more

4 Stars for the vast, green park, cute doggies, and breath-taking alluring view of the City, baby! My mentor lived nearby and wanted to take her cute canine out for a breath of fresh air. She pointed out that Alta Plaza was the closest park but also a great one too. Driving up SF hills, I was surprised to see that the whole park itself is slanted on a whole block. There is 2 hour parking all around the park, so hopefully you can score a spot! You will always see dogs and children running around, so if you dislike either of those, don't come here haha. BUT do come here if you enjoy a beautiful SF overview! It does get chilly up top this hilly park so bring a light jacket! For the most part, the park is well-kept although there are some dry parts of grass here and there. There is a great kids park at the peak of the park, just make sure to watch your kid so they don't fall off the hill haha. As everyone else has mentioned, there are tennis courts, basketball court, restrooms, etc. Nice park overall. Magical for a picnic date ;) read more

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In all of San Francisco, this is my 2nd favorite park. It's close enough to Fillmore street, that you can pick up a coffee, and go to the park to hang out on the stairs or the hill. There's basketball courts and tennis courts and a kids playground which is great for families. I see a lot of dogs around the park, and if you're on the side by Washington and Pierce, you see a glimpse of the Marina, and you can actually walk down to the Marina that way! I love this park, especially at night time. We hung out with a a few friends once, and joined a couple who was drinking champagne from the bottle, just chillin' and enjoying the city lights and views. It does have amazing views, and really makes you appreciate everything around you. read more

This park has the ideal playground for kids (and adults) of all ages! * The playground is large, with an area for younger kids and an area for older kids. * The entire play area is gated. * The gym sets are of good quality. The dome climber has sturdy ropes and the seesaw has good springs -- none of that fulcrum stuff when I was a kid. * The rubber soft ground landing makes it safe for those prone to falling, like the little ones who are starting to walk. * There are benches for parents to chat while their kids are playing together, and tables for snack breaks. * There is an amazing view of the city. *** Get ready for this: There is a bathroom and it is actually clean!!! *** No, I am not making this up. read more

Beautiful, clean park with amazing sunset views. Well maintained tennis courts, lots of benches and friendly people.

[From our dog.] Dear Alta Plaza Park, Thank you for hosting the monthly Pug Sunday. I have been several times and have sniffed a lot of friends. You don't seem to have any food dispensers, though. You should give me free nuggets. Anyway, I like your grass toilets. Most of all I like to visit you because I can run free and disobey my masters' commands not to lick strangers in their mouths. I like your breathtaking views to the south and like how I can see Alcatraz island. My parents let me watch the Blue Angels from you and I saw a gopher. My dad said to say he always can manage to find a parking spot close by, too. read more

Alta Plaza Park - In the immortal words of Jean-Paul Sartre, 'Au revoir, Gopher.' - Parks Near Me - San Francisco, California

It's okay. Tennis courts, jungle gym, a few trees, and a well tended lawn. If that is what you are looking for in a park then here you go. The views can be okay but are mainly blocked by the surrounding buildings. Aesthetically this park is bottom tier. I 'discovered' this place on a long walk after a meeting. There were several people enjoying themselves with the amenities. read more

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I love this park because I am a pug owner and enthusiast and they host San Francisco's Pug Sunday the first Sunday of every month. People tend to show up maybe around 11am or so, and meet with their pugs and let them all run around with the other pugs. The dogs love it and the people are very nice and sociable. PugPROS (Pug Rescue of Sacramento) often shows up as well and brings dogs who need foster care/new families. I come from out of town, so parking can be a total pain, but after circling for a while, I tend to find something within a block or two. Many owners take their dogs off of their leashes but they are all very mindful of cleaning up any bathroom messes. I always bring a towel or two to sit on, an igloo mug full of chilled water, a dog bowl for the water, and some treats for the dogs. I also always bring a book and a camera but never read the book because I'm too entertained by all the funny dogs running around. Pug mixes and other breeds are always present as well, and they all seem to have a blast running around together. read more

Alta Plaza Park - Pug Sunday September 2011 - Parks Near Me - San Francisco, California

One of my favorite parks to visit and run to in the city! Beautiful views and scenery. Plenty of people running around the area and plenty of people walking their dogs. Also a lot of kids playing at the playground here. They have courts for tennis and if I remember basketball. Love just coming here to relax and watch the sunset. Such a beautiful neighborhood and park! read more

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One of my favorite parks in the city, I think this is great since you get a nice view of the bay and usually great weather, without the hoards of people you usually get at the more popular spots like Dolores Park or Alamo Square. It's not too lively, but others are definitely there, but still very quaint and relaxed. If you're looking for a great spot to read a book on a nice sunny and warm San Francisco day, this is it. read more