Pacific Heights in San Francisco

Highlights of Pacific Heights

The main attractions of Pacific Heights are the stunning mansions and historic buildings. Along Billionaires Row, you can find homes of famous residents and former residents like Danielle Steel, Larry Ellison, Nancy Pelosi, Peter Thiel, and Gordon Getty, among others. Just blocks away, you can find houses whose exteriors were featured on famous TV shows like "Party of Five" and "Full House," and in the movie "Mrs. Doubtfire." 

Some historic mansions, like the Haas-Lilienthal House that dates to 1886, are museum homes that are open to the public. Here you can see authentic furniture and climb the corner tower. The neighborhood features a range of upscale shopping opportunities along Fillmore Street with brands such as Athleta, Prada, Ralph Lauren, and Marc by Marc Jacobs. You can also catch a film at the historic Clay Theatre or relax in the green space at Alta Plaza Park. 

History of Pacific Heights

The oldest building still standing in Pacific Heights was built in 1853 on Pacific Avenue. Pacific Heights was first developed as a neighborhood in the 1870s with a series of small Victorian homes. Many of these were lost during the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and were later replaced with period homes. Even today, the neighborhood is characterized by its wealth of Victorian-style architecture, though a variety of other styles are represented here including Mission Revival, Chateau, and Edwardian homes almost as common as Victorian structures. 

Pacific Heights also became the location of many diplomatic facilities, making the neighborhood one of international importance. In fact, Greece, Italy, South Korea, Vietnam, Germany, and China all hold consulates in this neighborhood. It has grown from its original roots, but it's always been an upscale neighborhood targeted by the rich and famous. 

Good to know before you visit Pacific Heights

Pacific Heights is a wealthy neighborhood, and the residents, while friendly and welcoming, are always on alert for anything that might disturb their peace. The neighborhood is very walkable, so bring comfortable shoes with you. If you have a dog, make sure you keep them on a leash and under control, and always clean up after them. 

Like in most neighborhoods in San Francisco, the sidewalks in Pacific Heights are disability and wheelchair friendly, though it should be noted that some of the older Victorian homes may not have elevators or ramps, so they could pose difficulties. It's a good idea to call ahead and ask if you need any special accommodations for your visit. The neighborhood is elegant, quiet, and exceptionally family friendly, though there aren't many kid-centric activities here, except for perhaps the city parks.