Just real fun. Reminds you of the movie "Big". The history…read moreof this creation Is heartfelt. FUN

The Musical Stairs, located at Pier 39, is straight out of that old movie 'Big' in the late 80s…read more So every time you step on a stair, you're playing a piano note. When It's crowded near hear, sometimes it can be kinda hard to hear it. Kids love these stairs, and why not!! And when I say kids, I mean kids of all ages!! So, if you're at Pier 39, keep a lookout for these. They are located about the middle of the pier on the right side when entering the pier. It's definitely worth checking out!!

We just wandered into this public art exhibit. It's rather lovely, paying tribute to writers and…read moremusicians and linking Chinatown and North Beach. Look down at the ground to find words in Chinese, Italian, and English from the pages fallen from the books/birds above.

The first 'solar powered offset' public artwork in California. I suppose the art itself isn't…read moredirectly connected to solar panels but it comes from a solar paneled business nearby. The LED lights illuminate the books that sort of look like birds from the distance. There are different words that are on the sidewalk in various languages - I suppose with some imagination these words dropped from the books above. This neighborhood has it all: legendary pizza, the best bakeries, unique shopping, strip clubs - what more could you ask for? Still my favorite neighborhood in the city. That border of Chinatown and Northbeach. So much character - wouldn't it be great to live in a little apartment above one of the bars or stores? Try nearby Coolbrith park or Washington Square. Rinks and Sweets love Washington Square - best place to socialize and sniff. Parks that are well maintained and not so big that somebody could get lost or out of sight.... I'm a helicopter parent after all. Some public art is always welcomed. Even if some isn't my style I still appreciate it.

Heard about it and had to go see it…read more Umbrella Alley was an amazing experience! I was wowed by the incredible artwork and brilliant and vibrant colors everywhere. The creativity and energy of this place make it a true San Francisco, gem. A must visit

The Umbrella Alley is undergoing renovations when we went in May 2026. Some of the nice murals…read moreyou'd see in photos in the internet are there but only as copies. You won't find the umbrellas too. If you have limited time, would skip this one at least until the renovations are finished.

One of my absolute favorite field trip spots for my students is the Wood Line in the Presidio of…read moreSan Francisco. This is a super popular place for professional photos. A quick tip: because of the way the Wood Line is designed, this stretch can turn into a full-on wind tunnel. Definitely layer up; it can get chilly even on a sunny day. What makes this area so special for young students is the natural layout. The rows of eucalyptus trees create built-in boundaries, which makes it much easier to manage a group while still giving them a sense of freedom and exploration. There are also spots nearby where kids can build and expand on makeshift shelters using fallen branches, perfect for imaginative play, teamwork, and a little hands-on engineering. There are often dogs off leash in this part of the Presidio, but we've never had any issues along this particular stretch. One especially memorable visit included spotting an owl nesting in the trees. A park ranger was stationed nearby to ensure the owl's safety, and my students even got to ask questions and learn more about the habitat. It turned into an unexpected and magical lesson in urban wildlife. If you're looking for a unique, outdoor San Francisco, add the Wood Line to your list.

Simply beautiful 1200 ft winding line of recycled eucalyptus trunks in a forest beneath eucalyptus…read moretrees. A great place for photos or taking a walk and getting fresh air. It was very quiet and tranquil when we went. I wasn't wearing the right shoes so we didn't walk through, but it was easy to access for me to just admire it.

This is a fascinating mural at the intersection of Broadway and Columbus Ave in SF. It's hard not…read moreto appreciate the detailed scene along the building, renowned musicians (jazz pianist Teddy Wilson, Gene Krupa on the drums, and Benny Goodman playing the clarinet), along with other noteworthy figures and SF landmarks in the background. The talented artist, Bill Weber, has created paintings and artworks throughout the nation, including architectural designs for New York skyscrapers and Las Vegas hotels and casinos. This particular piece easily captures my attention, with its bluish hues and eye-catching piano keys, every time I pass through this part of Chinatown during my excursions in the city.

This is an impressive mural that has become an iconic part of North Beach for over 20 years. It's 4…read morestories high and more than 100 feet long. The mural features Benny Goodman, Teddy Wilson, and San Francisco legends such as Herb Caen, Emperor Norton, and San Francisco mayors. The artist has been restoring the mural since 2004 but is still seeking donations because the city has not contributed to the restoration. http://murals.wordpress.com/2007/06/11/bill-webers-jazz-mural/

Before I moved to SF, my mom and I came out here to look at apartments. While walking all over, we…read morecame across what has to be the sweetest mural in the world. It's painted on the retaining walls of a fire hydrant and says "NO DOGS, teacup poodles OK" Indeed! This heartwarming mural made me feel like moving to SF would be a-ok. It helps that I come from a family of poodle lovers. My mom and I were admiring the mural, talking about how cute it is, etc. and an older gentlemen, leaned out of a window across the street and spoke to us. He explained to us that the mural was of his beloved dog who had since passed away. So sweet! The plaque reads: After adoringly befriending Dr. Bob Major, "Ginger" became "office dog" and vice-president of public relations for her master. Despite having flunked biting in training school, one can plainly see that this apricot teacup poodle is definitely destined for reading success. TEACUP POODLES OK 1987 Dick Fosselman and Rick Helf Donated by Mrs. Patricia Carson Major. Live planting by Susan Stasio The mural can be found on Montgomery Street at the Filbert Street steps.

The modern side looks slick and all, but it's the old style…read moreside that soars. The twists & turns. The imaginative heights. Ancient cultures before your eyes.

Public art gracing Patricia's Green in Hayes Valley. Sponsored by the San Francisco Arts…read moreCommission & created by David Normal. It all started with Stonehenge, morphed to artistic interpretations like Car Henge in Texas, Truck Henge, & many more Henge. But hey, cats rule. These regal cats emit a low electronic purr, & have a bench for contemplation. 3-D printed! Must See.

What a cute little reminder of what's important in life. You find them all around the city.read more

Fun to explore the city and find these hearts. I've never specifically looked for them rather I've…read morestumbled over them. A scavenger hunt of sorts. I remember 20 years ago as a college student bumming around the city with friends doing nonsense like this. Looking back that is the life. The city is so beautiful and likely if your reading this you live in or near it... so jump in the car. Hop on Bart... take a ferry over the bay - visit more often... Remember people travel half way across the earth to see your neighboring city - your just an $8 bridge toll away. San Francisco in general is an unusual place. Growing up around here in the general area what I've seen is my local friends immediately leave when they have a kid. They are displaced by people from all over the USA and even world. Those that come for a job here. Residents of the city are mostly economic immigrants. It is rare to find those that grew up in the area.