Walter Haas Playground

Breathtaking City Vistas

Located in San Francisco's Diamond Heights neighborhood, Walter Haas Playground is a local spot you might not hear about in typical tourist guides. Renovated back in 2005, this park strikes that perfect balance between play areas and natural beauty that makes it worth the visit.

Sitting at the corner of Addison and Farnum streets, what really makes this place special are the jaw-dropping views of the San Francisco skyline. We often find ourselves gazing at the panoramic cityscapes while kids play - the views from the playground area are quite impressive and you might want to bring your camera.

Play Areas for the Little Ones

The park includes a two-tier playground with separate sections for toddlers and older kids, giving children age-appropriate places to play.

While the equipment isn't the newest you'll find in the city, it still provides plenty of fun for energetic youngsters. One feature we really appreciate is that the playground is fully enclosed with gates, making it so much easier if you're trying to keep track of siblings of different ages at once.

Get Your Game On

The park has a full-sized basketball court that's well-maintained and located near the playground. Whether you want to join a pickup game or just practice your jump shot, there's room for players of all skill levels.

The spacious grassy area is good for spreading out a blanket for a relaxing afternoon or tossing a frisbee around. It's become a popular spot for weekend birthday parties, so don't be surprised if you see balloons and celebratory gatherings during your visit.

For the Four-Legged Friends

The park features a dedicated off-leash area where dogs can run free and make new furry friends. Though not huge, the space is a welcome retreat for city pups needing some exercise.

The dog park has artificial turf and is fully fenced. You can find it busiest on weekend mornings when the local dog community comes out in full force. There's even a special dog water bowl to keep your pooch hydrated, and the city maintains it with weekly cleanings.

Trails with a View

Embracing San Francisco's famous hills, the park's walking paths offer everything from casual strolls to more challenging routes for those wanting a bit of a workout. Each path leads to different viewpoints, giving you fresh perspectives of the cityscape with every turn.

If you're feeling adventurous, these trails connect to nearby Billy Goat Hill, so you can extend your outdoor experience beyond the park itself.

Good to Know

You can find a drinking fountain in the park to stay hydrated during your visit. Overall, the park is kept in good condition with several benches where you can sit and soak in those incredible views.

Note that there are no public restrooms available here, so plan accordingly. Also, while the grassy area is great for picnics, there aren't any formal picnic tables, so you might want to bring a blanket if you're planning to eat outdoors.