Often overlooked by visitors, despite the fact it is right on bustling Haight Street and sports some of the most amazing views of San Francisco from its highest points, Buena Vista Park is actually the oldest official park in the city. The 37 acre hilly green space is the perfect place slip away from the crowds among live oak groves, do some serious stair training on sharp inclines or simply sun in the grass while people watching.
Parking and public transportation at Buena Vista Park
Street parking is metered but incredibly tight in the Haight-Ashbury area, but with luck you might be able to steal a space in the Ashbury Heights neighborhood that borders the park to the south. It's also very easy to get to Buena Vista park on the 7 or 71 Muni Metro Bus from downtown San Francisco, which comes up Haight Street from Market and will drop you right in front of the lower lawn.
Best and worst time go to Buena Vista Park
San Francisco's mild year-round weather means that everyday is a good park day. Mornings bring out the stair runners at Buena Vista while sunny clear days draw those in the know to its awe-inspiring vista points. Even foggy days provide a magical ambiance for wandering around the park's wooded trails.
Admission to Buena Vista Park
A public park, there is no fee to enter Buena Vista Park.
Must see/do at Buena Vista Park
Other than making the short but intense climb up to the open grassy areas at the top of the park that offer views to die for, Buena Vista Park is really just a nice little urban oasis. Stop to check out the peace symbol made out of potted plants as you go up the northeast staircase.
Other places to visit near Buena Vista Park
Buena Vista Park is within walking distance from San Francisco's largest and most famous outdoor playground, Golden Gate Park. Just outside of Buena Vista Park, Haight Street is home to popular restaurants like Cha Cha Cha and famous drinking establishments like The Alembic.
Insider tip for visitors to Buena Vista Park
True to its name (Buena Vista means "great views" in Spanish) the park really does hold some of the best views in the entire city. Be sure not to miss "The Window", which is located lower down than some of the most visited lookouts at the top and offers a clear view to the west and out to the Pacific Ocean.
Author's bio: Ocean Malandra was born and raised in San Francisco. A widely published travel writer and journalist he can be followed at @OceanMalandra.