Visiting Pacific Heights
San Francisco’s Pacific Heights neighborhood Photo uploaded by pbo31
This wealthy and historical neighborhood embodies the San Francisco you glimpse in movies, filled with ornate Victorian architecture and the characteristic hills that cinematographers love. The Hollywood vision and breathtaking views the heights allow of the bay and Golden Gate Bridge make this neighborhood a favorite among visitors. You can find high-end shopping as well lavish mansions, offering a glimpse into the legacy of luxury of Pacific Heights.
To get an insight into the history of the area—everything from how the nouveau rich first inhabited the neighborhood in the 1800s to the devastation of last century’s fire and earthquake—don your best walking shoes for the Pacific Heights Guided Walking Tour.
Another must-see sight for any architecture buff is the Haas Lilienthal House. Perfectly preserved in its Queen Anne Victorian Era, this gorgeous mansion now doubles as headquarters for San Fran’s Architectural Heritage.
Fillmore Street in Pacific Heights is a shopping heaven for those with a large sum of disposable cash and a challenge in resisting temptation for those of us on a budget. Still, the charming street, buzzing with the urban chic can offer something for even those that need to keep their credit card firmly in their wallet. Everything from trendy clothing, to house and garden, to cosmetics, and wedding dresses can be found along this street, as well as charming cafes and restaurants if you would rather just marvel at the stylish locals that manage to tackle San Francisco hills in heals.
For a casual dining experience, stop in at Tango Gelato, where gelato flavors are as plentiful as the pairs of designer shoes on Fillmore Street. Adventurous taste buds can try olive oil or ginger-flavored ice cream or enjoy classics such as mint chip. You can also get delicious smoothies, pastries, and coffee.
Until recently, the neighborhood was most known for it beautiful scenery, but as new restaurants infiltrate this neighborhood, chic nightlife now matches its inhabitants. After an afternoon of shopping and sightseeing, perhaps duck into Harry’s, to unwind with the local after-work crowd. Osaka, serving delicious sushi, and Jackson Fillmore for reasonably priced Italian food are also good places to refuel.
Planning a trip to San Francisco? Read about attractions, tours, discounts, and more with the Go San Francisco Card.
- Save to Del.icio.us
- Stumble it!
- Digg this story
- Add to Reddit