From Macondray Lane to the Lyon Street Steps, we love to appreciate the beauty of San Francisco at these hidden gem spots in the city.
Gagliardi Photography / Canva
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Senior Staff Writer
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February 9, 2026
With San Francisco in the spotlight this weekend during Super Bowl LX, many visiting fans are discovering a vibrant city that doesn’t always fit the image depicted in the headlines.
With its sunset-washed hills, colorful neighborhoods, tranquil green areas, and sparkling bay views, there’s so much beauty to appreciate throughout San Francisco’s 47 square miles.
Here’s a closer look at a few of our favorite scenic spots.
By Dana Flynn
This charming pedestrian-only oasis is adorned with gardens, a fountain, and historic homes—and it’s been designated a Historic District since 1988. Enjoy breathtaking views of the SF Bay and Coit Tower.
The peaceful pathway even inspired the fictional ‘Barbary Lane’ from Armistead Maupin’s Tales of the City.
Photo by Jiuguang Wang on Unsplash
For a low-key spot that still delivers big scenery, Ina Coolbrith Park is a tiny 0.8-acre urban park in Russian Hill known for sweeping views of the San Francisco skyline, terraced benches, and flowering plants — perfect for a picnic or sunset.
Climb the stairs and continue up the Vallejo Stairway for another panoramic outlook near historic neighborhood homes.
Photo by Joseph Barrientos on Unsplash
This old footpath in the Presidio was once a shortcut used by Spanish soldiers. Now it’s a shady and relaxing path loved by locals and tourists alike. You’ll also see Andy Goldsworthy’s famous sculpture, Wood Line, winding in and out of the eucalyptus.
Gagliardi Photography / Canva
Up in Pacific Heights, this magnificent staircase is a prime spot to check out some of SF’s swankiest multi-million dollar homes, pristine landscaping, views over the bay and the city, and one of SF’s famous heart sculptures. If you’re a fan of SF’s Victorian architecture, the Lyon Street Steps are worth the walk.
Pi.1415926535, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Sutro Heights Park is a scenic, lesser-known overlook perched above Ocean Beach, offering sweeping, unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco’s western edge. Once part of Adolph Sutro’s grand estate filled with European-style gardens and statues, the park today invites visitors to experience a mix of history, coastal charm, and tranquility.