San Francisco Green Space: Lafayette Park

On a hot day, Lafayette Park (Sacramento Street between Gough & Laguna) is littered with sunbathing San Franciscan’s, reading their books, napping, watching their dogs play… On a cool day, you’ll find bundled up natives reading their books, napping, watching their dogs play…

There is nothing especially remarkable about this park, but it is a beauty. The slopes face towards the south side of the City, and you can often get far enough up the hill that the traffic noise seems far away, and you can enjoy the peace and quiet.

Like many of our parks, this one is not too far from a main street (Fillmore is about 4 blocks to the west, and Polk is 3 blocks to the east) where you can grab food and beverage and head over for a picnic. Because this is a bit off the beaten tourist track, it is a chance to see the locals at play (or, more likely, at relaxation!). It’s a fun way to spend a lazy day.

To get to Lafayette Park from downtown, take the 1 California, and disembark at the Octavia stop. You can also take the California Street Cable Car all the way to the end of the line at Van Ness, then walk the few blocks up to the park.