Alamo Square and the Painted Ladies are two of San Francisco’s most beloved landmarks.
Alamo Square Park offers visitors a stunning view of the city skyline and the famous row of Victorian homes known as the Painted Ladies.
The park is located on a hill, so visitors must climb a series of steps to reach the top. However, the view is well worth the effort, as it provides one of the most picturesque vistas in the city. On a clear day, you can see the Transamerica Pyramid, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the Bay Bridge.
In addition to the stunning views, Alamo Square Park also offers visitors a range of recreational activities. The park boasts a playground and tennis courts, making it an ideal destination for families and sports enthusiasts. There are also public bathrooms at the peak of the park and plenty of benches for visitors to rest and take in the view.
The park is surrounded by a number of stately homes, many of which were once home to the Russian and German consulates. The architecture is diverse, with a range of styles on display. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the square and admire the beautiful homes and mansions that line the streets.
In recent years, Alamo Square has become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. A number of trendy restaurants and shops have opened in the area, offering visitors a range of dining and shopping options that are chain-free. This makes it an ideal spot to spend an afternoon or evening, whether you’re looking to grab a bite to eat or do a bit of shopping.
Of course, no visit to Alamo Square would be complete without a stop at the Painted Ladies. This row of five Victorian homes facing the square has become one of San Francisco’s most iconic landmarks. The homes were constructed between 1892 and 1896 by Matthew Kavanaugh, and their distinctive style has been imitated by many homeowners throughout the city.
The Painted Ladies are known for their colorful exteriors, which feature three or more colors of paint. This style was popularized by San Francisco artist Butch Kardum, who painted his own Victorian home in this fashion in the 1960s. Since then, the tricolor style has become a hallmark of Victorian homes throughout the city.
The Painted Ladies are also known as “Postcard Row” because they have been featured on countless postcards and other memorabilia sold in stores throughout the city. They have also been featured in a number of movies and television shows, including the opening credits of the television series Full House.
Visitors to San Francisco should not miss the opportunity to visit Alamo Square and the Painted Ladies. Whether you’re interested in taking in the stunning views of the city skyline, playing tennis, or admiring the beautiful Victorian homes, this destination offers something for everyone. And, of course, a photo against the backdrop of the Painted Ladies is a must for any tourist visiting the city.
More about the Painted Ladies
Constructed between 1892 and 1896 by Matthew Kavanaugh, this famous row of houses has been featured in numerous print and TV ads, movies, television programs, and more. The most memorable TV spot includes the opening credits of the television series Full House, which ran from 1987 to 1995.
These Victorian homes have been dubbed the “Painted Ladies” for the three colors of paint (or more) that decorate their exteriors. When Butch Kardum, a San Francisco artist, began painting his Victorian home in this fashion, he did not know he would spawn a movement that continues to this very day. Today, visitors can see Victorian homes in the process of repainting in the tricolor style and can see numerous painted Victorian houses throughout the city.
Also called “Postcard Row,” these homes are featured on numerous postcards and other memorabilia at stores across the city.
Fun Facts: 7 Fun Facts about the Painted Ladies Postcard Row in San Francisco
Location
The Painted Ladies are located at 710-720 Steiner Street, facing Alamo Square Park. Alamo Square Park is located just three blocks northeast from the panhandle of Golden Gate Park. One block further is the Haight Ashbury district.
The Painted Ladies have been featured in several movies and television shows over the years.
Here are a few notable examples:
- Full House: The opening credits of this popular 1980s and 1990s sitcom featured the Painted Ladies prominently.
- Invasion of the Body Snatchers: The 1978 remake of this classic horror movie features a scene in which the characters run past the Painted Ladies.
- The Five-Year Engagement: This 2012 romantic comedy features a scene in which the characters visit the Painted Ladies.
- Monk: The popular TV series, which aired from 2002 to 2009, features a scene in which the titular character visits the Painted Ladies.
- The Wedding Planner: This 2001 romantic comedy features a scene in which the characters drive past the Painted Ladies.
- Rent: The 2005 movie adaptation of the popular Broadway musical features a scene in which the characters perform “Seasons of Love” in front of the Painted Ladies.
- Pacific Heights: This 1990 thriller features a scene in which the characters visit the Painted Ladies.
- The Sweetest Thing: This 2002 romantic comedy features a scene in which the characters attend a wedding in front of the Painted Ladies.
These are just a few examples of the many movies and television shows that have featured the Painted Ladies over the years. Their distinctive appearance and iconic status make them a popular filming location for many producers and directors.
See the Painted Ladies with San Francisco Jeep Tours
San Francisco Jeep Tours depart from nearby in the Fisherman’s Wharf neighborhood. The private group tours start in a mural-filled destination known as “Umbrella Alley”. The Alley is near Ghirardelli Square and across the street from the Maritime National Park.
The Open Top Jeep tours offer groups a choice of exploring the City of San Francisco’s landmarks in 2 or 3 hours OR going north over the Golden Gate Bridge to the Muir Woods National Park and wandering among the towering redwood trees.
These fun-filled private group tours for up to 6 guests per jeep depart daily and require advance reservations. If you want to take a guided jeep tour that includes Alamo Square, and the Painted Ladies plus see the top sights in San Francisco, book your 3-hour full-city San Francisco jeep tour by clicking here.
