Francisco Park

Beautiful space and views of Alcatraz, Angel Island, & the Golden Gate Bridge on a clear day! Somewhat difficult to find parking during those days. Bathroom was actually locked at 8pm when google said they were open. Lots of stairs on one side but seems like there may be a parking lot on the opposite side of the park that is handicap accessible. Access to the park via car is best from either Bay st. or Hyde. Play structures good for older kids, not good for under 5yo.

Cozy park set back from the most tourist-filled area. Good little playground and otherwise quiet and peaceful. Great view over The Bay and Alcatraz.

Immaculate park with great views, a picnic area, a children’s playground, dog play area, and a variety of plant species.

This reservoir-turned-park (according to the signs throughout it) spans about a block. It can be accessed through four entrances (the dog play area has separate gates). The upper Hyde St. entrance provides the best views, in my opinion. There are also restrooms, bike racks, nearby parking, and a community garden (it wasn’t open when I was there). Overall, if you’re in the area, you should check out this park. If it’s your first time, you can easily spend an hour or two just looking at the views.

From Reservoir to Recreation

Francisco Park is located on the corner of Bay and Hyde Streets in San Francisco. Its interesting history mirrors the city’s development and community spirit. Initially, this was the site of the Francisco Reservoir, which was constructed in 1860 and decommissioned in 1940 after the Lombard Street reservoir was established.

The reservoir served as a critical water source for the growing city. However, by 1940, it had become obsolete due to advancements in the city’s water infrastructure. Over the following decades, the site remained unused and largely forgotten, becoming an overgrown and fenced-off area entirely contrasting with its vibrant neighborhoods. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, when I worked at the Civic Center, I used to walk home through or along this location and wonder why such a precious piece of real estate was left forgotten and unattended, but that was not the case, of course!

In the early 2000s, residents and civic groups started pushing to turn the forgotten site into a community hangout. After years of planning, fundraising, and battling red tape, Francisco Park opened its doors in 2021. The park’s all about lush greenery, walking paths, playgrounds, and killer views of the Bay, Golden Gate Bridge, and Alcatraz. It’s a testament to the power of people and the city’s willingness to save and reuse its historic spaces for everyone to enjoy.

One of Francisco Park’s nice features is the dog playground, a dedicated space where dogs can exercise and socialize off-leash. Designed with both pets and their owners in mind, the playground features secure fencing and shaded seating areas. It provides plenty of room for dogs to run freely and play while promoting responsible pet ownership through well-maintained facilities and clear rules. This addition to the park enhances its appeal as a community hub, encouraging interactions among dog owners and contributing to the overall vibrancy and inclusiveness of Francisco Park.

I have taken our little puppy there a few times, and although he is not the young and energetic fuzzy little guy he was a few years ago, he still enjoys interacting with other dogs, big and small. I have also been fortunate to get acquainted with a few neighbors I would not have met otherwise.

Francisco Park in San Francisco is a wonderful place to spend time outdoors. The park has two separate areas for dogs, with the lower one covered in artificial grass and the upper one with real grass. There is also a small garden next to the dog park and a playground for kids. The pathways wind through the park, making it fun to explore. It is a lively, welcoming spot to relax and enjoy some fresh air.