Welcome to Alamo Square
A majestic neighborhood, centrally located on Alamo Square hill and full of memorable beauty
Alamo Square boasts some of the most recognizable real estate in America. The colorful collection of Victorian homes known as Postcard Row, or the Painted Ladies of San Francisco, is a symbol of the city – and for those television fans of a certain era, it also represents idyllic family life. Perhaps most famous as the home neighborhood of the Tanner family in the hit series Full House, these ornate houses offer a lesson in artistic whimsy and architectural significance.
Once a humble watering hole on the 19th century horseback trail from Mission Dolores to the Presidio, Alamo Square was named for the lone cottonwood tree rising up on the hill. Later, Mayor James Van Ness used the tree as the center point to create Alamo Square Park, the 12 acre generous green park overlooking the city that residents enjoy today for its lush landscaping and stunning views. Full of history and grandeur, Alamo Square’s shopping corridor on Divisadero Street boasts a well-rounded array of stylish boutiques and galleries, gourmet markets, and lively nightlife to keep residents well fed and entertained.
What to Love
- Culturally significant landmarks
- Walking tours
- Iconic Postcard Row
- Insta-worthy views and cuisine
- Tree-lined streets and the eponymous park
People & Lifestyle
With its feeling of timelessness and flair for the grand, it’s no wonder Alamo Square is the domain of artists, musicians, techies and, in its inception, the original merchants of the city who built these ravishing homes for their multigenerational families. Beyond the famed Postcard Row on Steiner Street, the majestic construction of the homes in the historic district evoke a time when the importance of the hand made and customized was paramount. Now revered for their voluminous spaces that offer a feeling of luxury and comfort, Victorians were often finished, after they were built, by teams of artisans that customized their interiors with woodwork, plaster and tile.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Start your Alamo Square adventure early in the morning at The Mill, a bright space for the joint Venture Between Four Barrel Coffee & Josey Baker Bread. With an appreciation for simplicity, Che Fico dazzles with a rustic, market-driven menu reflecting the rustic, market-driven menu featuring handmade pasta, pizzas, antipasti, housemade salumi, meat and fish plus dishes from the Jewish-Roman heritage known as “Cucina Ebraica,” while the wine list features the best of Californian and Italian vineyards. Organic, wood-fired cuisine is front and center at Nopa, while 4505 Burgers and Barbeque is known as the San Francisco authority on all things smoked and grilled.
Outfitting your new home is a breeze with Alamo Square’s eclectic mix of boutiques. The Perish Trust offers a carefully curated collection of handmade pieces, home decor, and artisan work. This modern-day general store specializes in apothecary items, stationary, and boho-chic gifts made by local artists. Rare Device showcases stunning artwork, designer jewelry, and artist-inspired home goods, while ultra-stylish HSH Interiors features a truly bespoke collection of high-end interior decor.
Things to Do
San Francisco offers some of the nation’s most iconic views, and Alamo Square Park is just the place to see them. Colorful wildflowers and willows canopying the sprawling grassy knolls make this lovely spot a local favorite. Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing afternoon as you gaze out at the pastel Victorians of Postcard Row, bring the family pup to the off-leash dog park, or get out on the court for a morning tennis match. The first Saturday of each month finds many residents and their families in the park for volunteer gardening, a beloved event series fostering community gardens.
A premier music venue in San Francisco, the Independent features a who’s who of up-and-coming music, offering guests a chance to see bands right before they become mainstream. Visit The Fillmore and experience a piece of music history. This culturally significant venue changed the San Francisco music scene in the 1960s and today hosts the best the music industry has to offer.
Schools
Families in Alamo Square benefit from access to several excellent schools, including:
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