George Sterling Park

A Hidden Green with a View

Situated in San Francisco's Russian Hill neighborhood, George Sterling Park might be small in size, but it offers plenty of charm. Wrapping around the Alice Marble Tennis Courts, this little urban oasis offers a peaceful retreat with some of the most jaw-dropping views of the city and bay you'll find anywhere. Whether you're a tourist with a camera in hand or a local looking for a quiet spot to breathe, this park provides a peaceful retreat.

A Poet's Legacy

The park gets its name from George Sterling, a San Francisco poet who captured hearts in the early 20th century. Originally dedicated as "George Sterling Glade" in 1928, it was rededicated as George Sterling Park in 2005. Sterling had a way with words about his treasured city, famously dubbing San Francisco "the cool, grey city of love" - and sitting in this park, you might just see exactly what he meant.

Spectacular Views

Perched atop Russian Hill, this spot offers impressive views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the San Francisco Bay. The elevation makes it an excellent sunset-watching location with panoramic views of the city.

You'll come across well-kept walking paths, stairways, and benches perfectly positioned for soaking in the scenery. An added bonus? The hilltop location tends to stay comfortably cool even when other parts of the city heat up during summer.

The famous winding section of Lombard Street is located next to the park

Photo: Allie_Caulfield (CC BY 2.0)

Neighborhood Connections

The park sits in a great spot for exploring the broader Russian Hill area with its beautiful architecture and historic vibes. You're just a short walk from the famous Lombard Street - you know, that super twisty road that shows up in all the tourism brochures.

Just be ready for a bit of a climb to reach the park - there are several stairs to tackle. The climb is worth it once you see the view and experience the tranquility at the top.

What's Here

Despite covering only about 2.8 acres, the park makes smart use of its limited footprint. The Alice Marble Tennis Courts (named after a 1930s tennis champion from the city) form the park's centerpiece and are open for public play.

There's also a basketball court with a truly remarkable backdrop. Both sports facilities are open to the public, adding some active options to your visit.

Bring Your Four-Legged Friends

Dogs are welcome in designated areas of the park, but they'll need to stay clear of the sports courts. The dog-friendly sections include thoughtful touches like a doggy drinking fountain. Just pay attention to the signs that indicate where your pup can roam freely and where the leash needs to stay on.

What to Expect

The atmosphere here tends to be calm and quiet - a wonderful counterpoint to the bustling city below. With both recreational options and those magnificent views, it's a versatile spot that appeals to all sorts of visitors.

Weekends and sunny days can draw crowds, so come early if you're hoping for solitude. Note that there aren't any restroom facilities available, and parts of the park have limited shade, so plan accordingly with water and sun protection if you're visiting on a rare hot San Francisco day.