The Parks at 5M

Urban Oasis

Situated in the bustling SoMa (South of Market) district of San Francisco, The Parks at 5M offers a refreshing breath of green amid the city's concrete landscape. This public open space is the heart of the broader 5M mixed-use development project, spanning four acres where Fifth and Mission streets meet.

What once was just a collection of deteriorating parking lots surrounded by historic buildings has blossomed into a vibrant community space. It's one of those pleasant surprises you might stumble upon while wandering through the neighborhood - a quiet retreat from the urban intensity just steps away.

Design and Features

At 26,100 square feet, this park is San Francisco's largest ground-level privately owned public space. The thoughtful design comes from landscape architects !melk and Cliff Lowe Associates, who collaborated with local community members, including representatives from the Filipino Cultural Heritage District, to create something that truly reflects the area's character.

One of the most eye-catching elements has to be the pair of sculptural architectural structures standing at the north and south ends of the park. Beyond their artistic appeal, these structures actually serve a practical purpose - they act as wind baffles, taming the notorious wind tunnel effect created by the surrounding towers.

These weren't just placed on a whim; their design underwent rigorous testing throughout development to ensure they worked as beautifully as they looked. There's a grassy area good for sprawling out with a book or having a casual picnic on a blanket, though you won't find permanent picnic tables here.

Amenities

If you're a dog owner, you can find a small dog area where your furry friend can stretch their legs. Just keep in mind that dogs aren't allowed on the main grass areas. The dedicated dog space is definitely on the cozy side and doesn't offer amenities like water stations or waste bags, so come prepared.

Note that there aren't any public restrooms available in the park. Despite these limitations, it's still a wonderful little green haven in this otherwise very urban part of the city.

Community Space

Since opening to the public in March 2022, The Parks at 5M has quickly established itself as a neighborhood favorite. It functions essentially as a "town square" for the area, with various programs and activities happening throughout the year.

The surrounding blocks offer a nice selection of shops and places to grab a bite, making it easy to extend your visit. While you'll usually find other people enjoying the space, it rarely feels crowded. The park has transformed what was once overlooked space into a new neighborhood gathering spot.