Huntington Park

Historic Origin

Originally the site of a mansion owned by railroad tycoon Collis P. Huntington, the land was donated to the city in 1915 by Arabella Huntington, Collis's widow, after the 1906 earthquake and fire destroyed the residence. Today, it serves as a peaceful urban retreat for both locals and visitors in the Nob Hill neighborhood.

Notable Features

The centerpiece of Huntington Park is the "Fountain of the Turtles," a replica of Rome's Fontana delle Tartarughe. This ornate fountain, installed in 1955, was originally purchased by the Crocker family for their Hillsborough estate and later gifted to San Francisco.

Near the Flood mansion stands another notable feature, the bronze statue "The Dancing Sprites" by French sculptor Henri Léon Greber, donated to the city in 1942.

Park Design

The park's design includes formal landscaping with well-maintained lawns, flowering plants, and tree-lined brick walkways. Low hedges border the park's edges, creating a sense of enclosure while still allowing views of the surrounding cityscape.

Benches throughout the park provide ample seating for relaxation and people-watching. This 1.3-acre public space sits at the intersection of California and Taylor Streets, surrounded by iconic San Francisco landmarks such as Grace Cathedral, the Fairmont Hotel, and the Mark Hopkins Hotel.

Community Amenities

Huntington Park caters to various community needs, featuring a children's playground on its northern end. The park is a popular spot for local residents and workers to enjoy lunch breaks, and it often serves as a backdrop for tourists exploring Nob Hill's attractions.