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From Reservoir to Recreation Francisco Park is located on the corner of Bay and Hyde Streets in San Francisco. Its interesting history mirrors the city's development and community spirit. Initially, this was the site of the Francisco Reservoir, which was constructed in 1860 and decommissioned in 1940 after the Lombard Street reservoir was established. The reservoir served as a critical water source for the growing city. However, by 1940, it had become obsolete due to advancements in the city's water infrastructure. Over the following decades, the site remained unused and largely forgotten, becoming an overgrown and fenced-off area entirely contrasting with its vibrant neighborhoods. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, when I worked at the Civic Center, I used to walk home through or along this location and wonder why such a precious piece of real estate was left forgotten and unattended, but that was not the case, of course! In the early 2000s, residents and civic groups started pushing to turn the forgotten site into a community hangout. After years of planning, fundraising, and battling red tape, Francisco Park opened its doors in 2021. The park's all about lush greenery, walking paths, playgrounds, and killer views of the Bay, Golden Gate Bridge, and Alcatraz. It's a testament to the power of people and the city's willingness to save and reuse its historic spaces for everyone to enjoy. One of Francisco Park's nice features is the dog playground, a dedicated space where dogs can exercise and socialize off-leash. Designed with both pets and their owners in mind, the playground features secure fencing and shaded seating areas. It provides plenty of room for dogs to run freely and play while promoting responsible pet ownership through well-maintained facilities and clear rules. This addition to the park enhances its appeal as a community hub, encouraging interactions among dog owners and contributing to the overall vibrancy and inclusiveness of Francisco Park. I have taken our little puppy there a few times, and although he is not the young and energetic fuzzy little guy he was a few years ago, he still enjoys interacting with other dogs, big and small. I have also been fortunate to get acquainted with a few neighbors I would not have met otherwise.
Francisco Park is a lovely park smack dab in the heart of the City by the Bay. Tip: This park is completely dog friendly Ideal for other pets (not just dogs), it's a really good place to head for if you want to take a walk around with Fido. Additionally, once you climb up the hill a bit, you'll be rewarded with some pretty nice views of the water.
While everyone else is swooning over San Francisco's newest park, Tunnel Tops, they seem to have (mostly) overlooked the recent unveiling of another gorgeous new park. The 4.5 acre Francisco Park sits on the City's original reservoir with Russian Hill to the south and Aquatic Park to the north. Dramatically, it stretches down the hillside with cable cars passing by on one side, stunning bay views, and an enormous, immaculate, green dog park hugging Bay Street. Though the park is situated on what's actually a steep hill, thoughtful planning has made navigating the space a breeze. An artful, wide footpath dotted with historical information about San Francisco's water supply (remember: it's a reservoir) takes you from one space to the next easily. Here, above the dog park, you'll find a magical children's playground, a large lawn area to relax on, built in tables to picnic at, a shiny new community garden, and clean restroom facilities that utilize grey-water in a nod to conserving our most precious of resources. On the day I visited, though maybe not when you're there, billy goats flanked the hillside in the highest part of the park, consuming the weeds ecologically. In fact, everything about this new park is ecological; all plants here are native species. Right now, Francisco Park seems a little undiscovered but it's clear that those who have discovered it absolutely love it. Seeing San Francisco get something right sparks joy in me and San Francisco got every single thing right about Francisco Park. Go. Just go.
I had passed by the previously fenced area over what seemed like an interminable time. In fact, when I walked up the Larkin Street Stairs, I would look back and see evidence of an oval lawn and a community garden and wonder when it was going to open. It felt like months stretched into years, but finally on April 27, it opened after a bit of media fanfare. Sure enough, the day after, I walked up on Francisco and felt an immediate sense of calm over the park that's been developed on one of the steeper slopes of Russian Hill. The key benefit is that the slope faces the most picturesque panorama of the bay with all the usual suspects in view - the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Fisherman's Wharf - with the best view at the top of Bruce's Stairs on Upper Hyde. From there, you also see most of the layout of the park with the main lawn most dominant. Although there are benches under a curving trellis, I hope there's a plan to plant trees around the perimeter as full exposure might be overwhelming on a hot day - although there's always those bay breezes. The elevated, undulating boardwalk path is the park's most impressive feature as it winds down to Bay Street where the dog run is and already actively used when I was there. Back on the top level, there are quite a few features - restrooms, a playground, a small community garden, a series of picnic tables, and a historical area that explains how the long-standing reservoir was used and then ignored for decades until a group of community activists brought this park to life. Considering it was only on its second day, I was genuinely impressed by the result. RELATED - Looking for greenery around the Bay Area? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: https://bit.ly/2P5dHRe
Francisco Park has beautiful views of some of San Francisco's greatest destinations. The park will be completely opening late April 2022 and is sure to become a great place to exercise, catchup with others, or relax solo or with furry friends. The parking options include residential, garages, and meters. What I appreciate most of Francisco park is the inclusivity for the population from the accessible ramps to dog park. Additionally, the location is in close proximity to other city gems. See below for more info: Beautiful Views: I went to the high school two blocks away and am so happy to see that what was once a hilly, dirt lot has become a lovely, urban greenery. The Francisco Park views are beautiful and include some of the most iconic destinations in San Francisco. On Larkin Street, you can see the cable call going up and down the hill. Throughout the park, particularly in the center, you can see Ghirardelli Square and even the Golden Gate Bridge on a clear day. Overall, a wonderful addition to Russian Hill. Opening Soon: As of April 22, 2022, only a small area of Francisco Park open. Hence, I recommend waiting until all of the construction is done to visit and get the truly amazing experience the park has to offer. The park should be open by April 27, 2022, just in time for late spring and summer. :) Parking: There is free, two-hour parking in Russian Hill from Monday to Saturday. There are no time restrictions if you have a residential permit or on Sunday's. Additionally, there are parking meters and garages in Fisherman's Wharf. Park Inclusivity: My favorite aspect of Francisco Park has to be the inclusivity. There are paved paths that will make most of the park accessible for individuals in wheelchairs or with walkers. There is also a dog park and a playground for furry friends and children to release some energy and get exercise.
This is pretty much the next Dolores Park! Yes, residents paid money to get it built. Yes, it took time to build. Yes, it could be housing (lord knows SF needs more of it, especially in this neighborhood.) But this park is an asset to the city. The views are gorgeous, there's lots of picnicking spaces, it's walking distance to Polk St, Lombard St (the windy part), and Fisherman's Wharf/the piers. It's so pretty to see the cable cars climbing up the hills too. There's also lots of kids and dogs here because there's a playground and a dog park! There's a cute garden area too.
SF's newest park is gorgeous with views of the water, you can see Golden Gate Bridge and the bay bridge on a clear day along with the harbor and Ghirardelli square sign. There's a grassy area for picnics but it's probably better as a childrens park or dog park since it's not a ton of grass. Bit of a hike to the top, but view is worth it. We came on a weekend and ended up parking closer to Lombard street and walking down.
Absolutely beautiful public space in San Francisco. This historic, now completely modernized public park is built on top of a reservoir. There are amazing views. There is a community food garden. You'll find a dog park at bay Street. The park has a complex network of paths and staircases and ramps. Look for piles of green stone, metamorphic basalt rock, alongside the ramp leading down to Bay street. My only complaint about this park is the ugly 1970s buildings in its backdrop.
All parks get 5 stars. This one has a history. It was a reservoir and left some remnants of retaining wall, pipes, and history for you to read. Love SF for all the history. The dog park has some very happy dogs. The owners gather to chit chat. You walk your way up these very stilted walk ways to get to this exclusive picnic area and children's playgound. You do your exercise just to get to the heart of the playground. Enjoy the million dollar or will it be billion dollar view (inflation). Lovely fenced garden growing lovely things. I see this beautiful stock of kale. Restroom avail. Volunteers can come monthly to care for the park.
Open public space in San Francisco is rarer and rarer each year. I was surprised to see this space completed with my own eyes. It's a good place to enjoy a public park in the middle of a tourist trap.
I basically grew up in San Francisco my entire life and it was such a wonderful moment to be able to witness such a beautiful park in this area. It's huge, still growing, and very spacious as well. Surreal if you ask me. Plus, it's on top of a hill so you get to see the ocean of Fisherman's Wharf and it's a gorgeous sight to see. What I love about this park is the work done to create this. People who have partaken in this project have their names engraved on the stairs which I think is so cool and commendable. On the ramp to the top of park, you'll see historical messages all across the park that notes everything to the old San Francisco and how it became the way it is now. When you make it to Bay Street, the first thing you'll see is the dog park where you'll see a bunch of doggos playing and running around with each other. Then you'll see a ramp that leads you to the upper part of the park. There's a playground, a grassy area, as well as a community garden with beautiful flowers being grown in that area. They even grow their own veggies as well. Ever since this place opened up, I've been coming here almost every day just to get a glimpse of how beautiful the park looks especially during sunny days. This is one of my favorite places just to chill out, read a book, study, or just hang out with friends and I absolutely love it!
My first time here. Not a park I'd visit often but it was nice to visit at least once, after all it is new. You have a view of Alcatraz island. Brought some lunch and grabbed a seat at one of the benches. Gender neutral bathrooms are clean. There's a water fountain. There's only a trash and a recycling can, no composting can. They really should have a composting can, especially in SF! The grassy area was almost full of visitors on a windy Saturday afternoon. Sadly the grass is drying up. They have a small playground for the kids and a community garden too. There's no shade. Further down there's a nice wooden ramp leading to a very nice dog park and to the street.
Francisco is a great addition to Russian Hill. A dog play area on the street level, a kids play area and a grassy round for more dog play. The board walkway winds uphill where you can either go to Hyde Street or the stairs to Larkin. View of the Bay and the Ghirardelli sign peeking out!
Francisco Park sits on top of a former reservoir (Francisco Street Reservoir, closed 1940s) and this park opened in 2022. San Francisco parks usually have amazing views and this is no exception. What's interesting about this park is that it's largely funded by a local nonprofit working with our city's park and recreation. It has amazing views. And besides a playground, it also offers a community garden, picnic areas and an off-leash play area for dogs. With sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Ghirardelli Square, Aquatic Cove, etc, you can picnic here with your gourmet sandwiches from North Beach and dim sum from Chinatown. Just to give you an idea. Haha. But do bring a jacket as it can be cold or just windy. My pup and I have been here on a few occasions and we loved playing here. Located in the middle bordered by Hyde, Larkin, Francisco and Bay Streets. read more
2 years ago
A pretty chill park near the Ghiradelli Square area. Worth the walk if you're looking to kind of step away from the tourist attractions. It's more of a strolling park that also happens to be very dog friendly. At the base or entrance of the park, you'll see tons of owners and their dogs on the faux-grassy area, just having a fun morning or afternoon. Nice walkable ramp up to another play area for kids and benches and seating areas on the upper levels. There's like a small garden if you walk further down, then it'll lead you down (or up, depending where you're going) back to the main road. I did encounter a transient, or maybe homeless individual, that came walking down a path close to me, following an older couple that just walked by. Oddly enough, I heard the man yelling some things and decided to walk away from all that. This was around 3pm in the afternoon. Part of the city life I guess, but just keep aware like all places and you'll be fine. read more
From Reservoir to Recreation Francisco Park is located on the corner of Bay and Hyde Streets in San Francisco. Its interesting history mirrors the city's development and community spirit. Initially, this was the site of the Francisco Reservoir, which was constructed in 1860 and decommissioned in 1940 after the Lombard Street reservoir was established. The reservoir served as a critical water source for the growing city. However, by 1940, it had become obsolete due to advancements in the city's water infrastructure. Over the following decades, the site remained unused and largely forgotten, becoming an overgrown and fenced-off area entirely contrasting with its vibrant neighborhoods. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, when I worked at the Civic Center, I used to walk home through or along this location and wonder why such a precious piece of real estate was left forgotten and unattended, but that was not the case, of course! In the early 2000s, residents and civic groups started pushing to turn the forgotten site into a community hangout. After years of planning, fundraising, and battling red tape, Francisco Park opened its doors in 2021. The park's all about lush greenery, walking paths, playgrounds, and killer views of the Bay, Golden Gate Bridge, and Alcatraz. It's a testament to the power of people and the city's willingness to save and reuse its historic spaces for everyone to enjoy. One of Francisco Park's nice features is the dog playground, a dedicated space where dogs can exercise and socialize off-leash. Designed with both pets and their owners in mind, the playground features secure fencing and shaded seating areas. It provides plenty of room for dogs to run freely and play while promoting responsible pet ownership through well-maintained facilities and clear rules. This addition to the park enhances its appeal as a community hub, encouraging interactions among dog owners and contributing to the overall vibrancy and inclusiveness of Francisco Park. I have taken our little puppy there a few times, and although he is not the young and energetic fuzzy little guy he was a few years ago, he still enjoys interacting with other dogs, big and small. I have also been fortunate to get acquainted with a few neighbors I would not have met otherwise. read more
4 months ago
2 years ago
Francisco Park is a lovely park smack dab in the heart of the City by the Bay. Tip: This park is completely dog friendly Ideal for other pets (not just dogs), it's a really good place to head for if you want to take a walk around with Fido. Additionally, once you climb up the hill a bit, you'll be rewarded with some pretty nice views of the water. read more
While everyone else is swooning over San Francisco's newest park, Tunnel Tops, they seem to have (mostly) overlooked the recent unveiling of another gorgeous new park. The 4.5 acre Francisco Park sits on the City's original reservoir with Russian Hill to the south and Aquatic Park to the north. Dramatically, it stretches down the hillside with cable cars passing by on one side, stunning bay views, and an enormous, immaculate, green dog park hugging Bay Street. Though the park is situated on what's actually a steep hill, thoughtful planning has made navigating the space a breeze. An artful, wide footpath dotted with historical information about San Francisco's water supply (remember: it's a reservoir) takes you from one space to the next easily. Here, above the dog park, you'll find a magical children's playground, a large lawn area to relax on, built in tables to picnic at, a shiny new community garden, and clean restroom facilities that utilize grey-water in a nod to conserving our most precious of resources. On the day I visited, though maybe not when you're there, billy goats flanked the hillside in the highest part of the park, consuming the weeds ecologically. In fact, everything about this new park is ecological; all plants here are native species. Right now, Francisco Park seems a little undiscovered but it's clear that those who have discovered it absolutely love it. Seeing San Francisco get something right sparks joy in me and San Francisco got every single thing right about Francisco Park. Go. Just go. read more
I had passed by the previously fenced area over what seemed like an interminable time. In fact, when I walked up the Larkin Street Stairs, I would look back and see evidence of an oval lawn and a community garden and wonder when it was going to open. It felt like months stretched into years, but finally on April 27, it opened after a bit of media fanfare. Sure enough, the day after, I walked up on Francisco and felt an immediate sense of calm over the park that's been developed on one of the steeper slopes of Russian Hill. The key benefit is that the slope faces the most picturesque panorama of the bay with all the usual suspects in view - the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Fisherman's Wharf - with the best view at the top of Bruce's Stairs on Upper Hyde. From there, you also see most of the layout of the park with the main lawn most dominant. Although there are benches under a curving trellis, I hope there's a plan to plant trees around the perimeter as full exposure might be overwhelming on a hot day - although there's always those bay breezes. The elevated, undulating boardwalk path is the park's most impressive feature as it winds down to Bay Street where the dog run is and already actively used when I was there. Back on the top level, there are quite a few features - restrooms, a playground, a small community garden, a series of picnic tables, and a historical area that explains how the long-standing reservoir was used and then ignored for decades until a group of community activists brought this park to life. Considering it was only on its second day, I was genuinely impressed by the result. RELATED - Looking for greenery around the Bay Area? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: https://bit.ly/2P5dHRe read more
Francisco Park has beautiful views of some of San Francisco's greatest destinations. The park will be completely opening late April 2022 and is sure to become a great place to exercise, catchup with others, or relax solo or with furry friends. The parking options include residential, garages, and meters. What I appreciate most of Francisco park is the inclusivity for the population from the accessible ramps to dog park. Additionally, the location is in close proximity to other city gems. See below for more info: Beautiful Views: I went to the high school two blocks away and am so happy to see that what was once a hilly, dirt lot has become a lovely, urban greenery. The Francisco Park views are beautiful and include some of the most iconic destinations in San Francisco. On Larkin Street, you can see the cable call going up and down the hill. Throughout the park, particularly in the center, you can see Ghirardelli Square and even the Golden Gate Bridge on a clear day. Overall, a wonderful addition to Russian Hill. Opening Soon: As of April 22, 2022, only a small area of Francisco Park open. Hence, I recommend waiting until all of the construction is done to visit and get the truly amazing experience the park has to offer. The park should be open by April 27, 2022, just in time for late spring and summer. :) Parking: There is free, two-hour parking in Russian Hill from Monday to Saturday. There are no time restrictions if you have a residential permit or on Sunday's. Additionally, there are parking meters and garages in Fisherman's Wharf. Park Inclusivity: My favorite aspect of Francisco Park has to be the inclusivity. There are paved paths that will make most of the park accessible for individuals in wheelchairs or with walkers. There is also a dog park and a playground for furry friends and children to release some energy and get exercise. read more
This is pretty much the next Dolores Park! Yes, residents paid money to get it built. Yes, it took time to build. Yes, it could be housing (lord knows SF needs more of it, especially in this neighborhood.) But this park is an asset to the city. The views are gorgeous, there's lots of picnicking spaces, it's walking distance to Polk St, Lombard St (the windy part), and Fisherman's Wharf/the piers. It's so pretty to see the cable cars climbing up the hills too. There's also lots of kids and dogs here because there's a playground and a dog park! There's a cute garden area too. read more
SF's newest park is gorgeous with views of the water, you can see Golden Gate Bridge and the bay bridge on a clear day along with the harbor and Ghirardelli square sign. There's a grassy area for picnics but it's probably better as a childrens park or dog park since it's not a ton of grass. Bit of a hike to the top, but view is worth it. We came on a weekend and ended up parking closer to Lombard street and walking down. read more
Absolutely beautiful public space in San Francisco. This historic, now completely modernized public park is built on top of a reservoir. There are amazing views. There is a community food garden. You'll find a dog park at bay Street. The park has a complex network of paths and staircases and ramps. Look for piles of green stone, metamorphic basalt rock, alongside the ramp leading down to Bay street. My only complaint about this park is the ugly 1970s buildings in its backdrop. read more
All parks get 5 stars. This one has a history. It was a reservoir and left some remnants of retaining wall, pipes, and history for you to read. Love SF for all the history. The dog park has some very happy dogs. The owners gather to chit chat. You walk your way up these very stilted walk ways to get to this exclusive picnic area and children's playgound. You do your exercise just to get to the heart of the playground. Enjoy the million dollar or will it be billion dollar view (inflation). Lovely fenced garden growing lovely things. I see this beautiful stock of kale. Restroom avail. Volunteers can come monthly to care for the park. read more
I basically grew up in San Francisco my entire life and it was such a wonderful moment to be able to witness such a beautiful park in this area. It's huge, still growing, and very spacious as well. Surreal if you ask me. Plus, it's on top of a hill so you get to see the ocean of Fisherman's Wharf and it's a gorgeous sight to see. What I love about this park is the work done to create this. People who have partaken in this project have their names engraved on the stairs which I think is so cool and commendable. On the ramp to the top of park, you'll see historical messages all across the park that notes everything to the old San Francisco and how it became the way it is now. When you make it to Bay Street, the first thing you'll see is the dog park where you'll see a bunch of doggos playing and running around with each other. Then you'll see a ramp that leads you to the upper part of the park. There's a playground, a grassy area, as well as a community garden with beautiful flowers being grown in that area. They even grow their own veggies as well. Ever since this place opened up, I've been coming here almost every day just to get a glimpse of how beautiful the park looks especially during sunny days. This is one of my favorite places just to chill out, read a book, study, or just hang out with friends and I absolutely love it! read more
4 years ago
My first time here. Not a park I'd visit often but it was nice to visit at least once, after all it is new. You have a view of Alcatraz island. Brought some lunch and grabbed a seat at one of the benches. Gender neutral bathrooms are clean. There's a water fountain. There's only a trash and a recycling can, no composting can. They really should have a composting can, especially in SF! The grassy area was almost full of visitors on a windy Saturday afternoon. Sadly the grass is drying up. They have a small playground for the kids and a community garden too. There's no shade. Further down there's a nice wooden ramp leading to a very nice dog park and to the street. read more
Francisco is a great addition to Russian Hill. A dog play area on the street level, a kids play area and a grassy round for more dog play. The board walkway winds uphill where you can either go to Hyde Street or the stairs to Larkin. View of the Bay and the Ghirardelli sign peeking out! read more
Beautiful newly renovated park! Lots of people but lots of space. Dog park is also located on the very bottom at street level. Be mindful that it is smaller than normal dog parks and can get quite busy. Great to visit for both locals and tourists! read more
Another park for us to enjoy, and it's free! What more could we want? This one is very spacious with several different elements eg playground, seating, dog area. Bathrooms area available and pretty clean so far. Nice place to walk by if you're going that way. read more
4 years ago
Have lived in the city for almost 11 years and coming to this park makes me feel like a tourist in my own city (in the best way possible!!) the park is absolutely stunning with even more incredible views of the bay. I have a dog who loves going to dog parks and this is on my favorites list for dog parks in the city. It's gorgeous, so clean and always has a great crowd of people and dogs. Highly recommend coming here! If you're wanting to have a picnic with friends, bring your kiddo for some playground play or if you have a dog! There's something for everyone. and lastly.... AMAZING restroom facilities:) read more
3 years ago
This park is awesome! Plenty of space for picnics, benches and tables, and a nice dog park at bottom. There's a playground for the kids, and also great restrooms! Great views of the bay. read more
2 years ago
3 years ago
4 years ago
Was about to rain but was able to catch some doggy park prior. He enjoyed the park with city friends, my dog isn't use to super urban living. The dogs were all nice and civilized, we enjoyed it even if it was tiny. Wasn't able to climb to the top open field, next time! read more
This new park opened a few days ago and I couldn't wait to check it out. Kid's playground, grassy/table picnic area, community garden, dog park, and well-equipped restroom. It is a place with great amenities and it is nice to take a walk and chill out here on a sunny Sunday afternoon. read more
4 years ago
Great new park! Best part is the views of Alcatraz. Playground area, plenty of benches and a dog park. Easy street parking nearby and a close walk to Ghirardelli square. read more
4 years ago
A true world-class gem in Russian Hill. Stunning views, close-by delicious food options for picnics, perfect open lawn to lay out on - what more could anyone ask for? This neighborhood was already fantastic, but the added green space just pushed it over the top. Whether you take your dog, your kids, or just yourself, you'll enjoy this gorgeous sanctuary in the heart of the City! read more
4 years ago
This park is in a great area with a great view, but I honestly felt like they didn't do it justice. The park overall has a lot of concrete bones, uninviting colors, and not much creativity to offer for kids (just a few swings and slides?) the grassy land for you to lay on looks a lot bigger in pictures - it's kind of a small dry patch of grass in reality. I went on a Tuesday and it felt comfortably full. It'd probably be too crowded on a weekend. I wanted to like this park, but I wouldn't come back again. /: read more
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