I don't know about you, but whenever I visit a new city, I always make it a mission to get at least one really great shot of that city's skyline. It must be the small-town, country girl in me that's always fascinated by the fact that other places even HAVE skylines (because we certainly don't have them in rural Ohio…).
And, even though San Francisco isn't a huge city, it DOES have a pretty recognizable skyline, with the 853-foot Transamerica Pyramid at its center.
So, as I wandered through San Francisco's various neighborhoods over the course of a week, I kept an eye out for the best places from which you can see the city's signature skyline.
The best views of San Francisco
These are 5 of my favorite views of San Francisco:
5. Twin Peaks
If it's all of San Francisco you want to see, head up to Twin Peaks on a clear day (which of course is sometimes easier said than done in SF, where fog and clouds often shroud this lookout point). I was lucky enough to hit up the City by the Bay during a week of uncharacteristically sunny and warm weather, and so got quite a good view from Twin Peaks.
Cost: Free
4. From Alcatraz
If you're heading out to explore Alcatraz island, make sure to also look over your shoulder back toward San Francisco a few times. The island is only 1.5 miles from downtown, meaning you can get a great view of the skyline from the ferry and the island itself.
Cost: $28 to visit Alcatraz
RELATED: The Two Sides of Alcatraz
3. Coit Tower
If it's the quintessential San Francisco skyline photo you want, head to the observation deck of Coit Tower, situated atop Telegraph Hill. You can get here by car or bus or, if you really want a challenge, by the Filbert or Greenwich steps. Inside the tower are some amazing WPA murals, and the views from the top on a clear day really can't be beat.
Cost: $7
2. Alamo Square Park
If it's a slightly different view of the city you want, be sure to visit Alamo Square Park. Most people come here to photograph the famous line of Victorian houses known as “the Painted Ladies,” but if you stand at the highest point of the park in front of these houses, you can snap a fantastic photo with the San Francisco skyline in the background, as well.
Cost: Free
1. Dolores Park
My favorite spot to view the city from is fairly unconventional. In fact, many visitors to San Francisco probably don't even know about it. Located in the heart of the Mission District, Dolores Park doesn't really look like it would give you great views of downtown. But simply walk to the highest corner of the park and turn around to be surprised. I loved this spot most because it seemed the most “San Francisco” to me. Only here can you find this many people out sunbathing on a Wednesday afternoon.
Cost: Free
Want to explore San Francisco on your next visit? Check out these awesome tours from Urban Adventures:
- Teas, Temples, and Beatniks
- Flavors and Murals of the Mission
- Bridge and the Beach
- North Beach Pub Tour
Which of these views is your favorite? Do you know of any other great ones in San Francisco?
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