San Francisco Steps

There is one thing San Francisco has no shortage of: beautiful views.

One of my favorites, which also connects two great neighborhoods, is from the top of the Fillmore Steps.

Right on the dividing line of Pacific Heights and Cow Hollow, the top of the Fillmore Steps is found at the intersection of Fillmore and Broadway. If you are lucky enough, the doorman at one of the buildings will let you in and see the uninterrupted view of the Bay. Without that, you still can catch a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge, Palace of Fine Arts, the North Bay, and Alcatraz. On a clear day, it feels like you can see the entire Bay Area.

The best way to enjoy this view is to do a little work for it. Start at the bottom on Union Street. Grab a cup of coffee/tea/water from one of the many vendors, and perhaps a nice little snack. It isn’t a long walk, only a few blocks, but it is a steep one. Then head up the hill. Turn around once in a while to enjoy the view (and give your legs a break). Watch the huge ships navigate the Bay, loaded with goods. Soon, you will encounter some of the infamous San Francisco Steps, created to help people get up the nasty hill. (insider note: it is sometimes easier to use the sidewalk instead of the steps)

As you get closer to the top, you’ll get to ogle some of the beautiful homes. You are starting to get closer to some of the most prestigious addresses in San Francisco. Don’t forget to breath, too! Before you know it, you’ll be at the top. Check out the view in front of you, take a sip of your drink, and enjoy.