Filbert Steps San Francisco
San Francisco's enchanting Filbert Steps: a steep, residential climb through lush gardens with stunning bay views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Filbert Steps San Francisco
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
San Francisco's enchanting Filbert Steps: a steep, residential climb through lush gardens with stunning bay views.
"It felt like stepping into the Garden of Eden with beautiful gardens and stunning views."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
These are steep steps! Good grip and support are essential for a safe and enjoyable climb.
🤫 Be a Respectful Guest
Remember these are homes. Keep noise down and stay on the public path.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Enchanting Gardens
Along the steps
A lush, vibrant oasis of flowers and greenery cascading down the hillside. Feels like a secret garden.
Panoramic Bay Views
Midway and top of the steps
Stunning vistas of the San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz, and the Bay Bridge.
Coit Tower Ascent
Top of the steps
The steps provide a scenic and challenging route to the iconic Coit Tower.
Planning Your Visit
Respect the Residents
Embrace the Climb
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
These are steep steps! Good grip and support are essential for a safe and enjoyable climb.
🤫 Be a Respectful Guest
Remember these are homes. Keep noise down and stay on the public path.
My favorite steps in SF.
🦜 Look for the Parrots
Keep an eye out for the famous wild parrots that inhabit the area!
💪 Great Workout Spot
Perfect for an intense cardio session with incredible scenery.
One of my most memorable experiences on my visit to SF was going up the Filbert Steps. It felt like stepping into the Garden of Eden.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
These are steep steps! Good grip and support are essential for a safe and enjoyable climb.
🤫 Be a Respectful Guest
Remember these are homes. Keep noise down and stay on the public path.
🦜 Look for the Parrots
Keep an eye out for the famous wild parrots that inhabit the area!
💪 Great Workout Spot
Perfect for an intense cardio session with incredible scenery.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for breathtaking bay vistas and charming garden shots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Filbert Steps for their stunning gardens, breathtaking bay views, and the invigorating workout they provide. Many describe it as a hidden gem and a 'Garden of Eden' in the city. However, some note the extreme steepness can be challenging, and a few mention occasional issues with tourists not respecting the residential nature of the steps.
"Oef thats scary. 31,5% incline. Love it"
Marco van Dam
"I love taking my daughter on the street to drive. She's a semi new driver and needed to find out what it was like driving in the city. I like the fact that it gives the young kids a challenge and builds their confidence when they drive around"
Karie Howard
"Great exercise. Exceptional views. An oasis of greenery to explore"
Marilyn Dalton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can access the Filbert Steps from the Embarcadero (near Pier 1) or from the top near Coit Tower. Many visitors start at the bottom and climb up. Public transport options like Muni buses are available nearby.
Parking directly at the steps is extremely limited as it's a residential area. It's best to park further down near the Embarcadero or use public transportation.
You cannot drive directly on the steps themselves, as they are pedestrian-only. The closest you can get by car is to the bottom near Levi Plaza Park or the top near Coit Tower.
From Fisherman's Wharf, you can take a scenic walk along the Embarcadero or catch a Muni bus heading towards the Ferry Building, then walk to the base of the steps.
Yes, several Muni bus lines stop near the Embarcadero or North Beach areas, providing access to the base or top of the steps.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Filbert Steps are a public thoroughfare and are free to access and walk.
The steps are accessible at all hours, but it's best to visit during daylight for safety and to enjoy the gardens and views.
The gardens are part of the residential properties and are not open for public entry. Please admire them from the public steps.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to steepness, lack of lighting, and potential safety concerns.
While official guided tours might be limited, many visitors explore independently. Local community cleanups are sometimes organized.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for viewpoints offering clear shots of the Bay Bridge, Alcatraz, and the city skyline. The lush gardens themselves also make for beautiful, vibrant photos.
It's best to focus your photography on the gardens and views. Avoid taking intrusive photos of private residences or their inhabitants.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light, while mornings can provide clearer skies and fewer people.
While not explicitly forbidden, be mindful of space and other visitors. Avoid setting up tripods in narrow sections or blocking the path.
Besides the views and gardens, keep an eye out for the famous wild parrots and any unique architectural details of the homes.
🎫 💪 Fitness & Exercise
Absolutely! The steep incline makes it an excellent cardiovascular workout and leg-strengthening activity. Many locals use it for their fitness routine.
The time varies greatly depending on your fitness level and how often you stop to admire the views. It can take anywhere from 15-30 minutes to reach the top.
Yes, San Francisco is famous for its stairways! Other popular options include the 16th Avenue Tiled Steps and the Lyon Street Steps.
Comfortable athletic wear and supportive shoes are highly recommended. Bring water, especially on warmer days.
Many people do run the Filbert Steps for exercise. Just be aware of other walkers and residents, and maintain control.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Ensure children wear sturdy shoes, hold hands on the steeper sections, and take frequent breaks to enjoy the scenery. The presence of wild parrots can also be a highlight for younger visitors. Consider starting from the bottom and heading towards Coit Tower for a rewarding destination.
💪 Fitness Enthusiasts
Recommendations: Wear appropriate athletic gear and footwear. Bring water, and be mindful of other users, especially during peak hours. You can create various routes by connecting with other stairways in the Telegraph Hill area for an extended fitness challenge.
📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
Photo tips: Visit during the golden hour for soft, warm light. Capture the contrast between the lush greenery and the city skyline. Be respectful of residents' privacy when framing your shots. The WPA murals inside Coit Tower, accessible from the top of the steps, are also a significant artistic draw.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Gardens of Filbert Steps
Key to this beauty is the microclimate created by the hillside and the proximity to the bay, allowing a diverse range of plants to thrive. While you can't walk into the gardens themselves, the visual feast from the steps is unparalleled. It’s this unique blend of urban living and natural beauty that makes the Filbert Steps so captivating and a favorite subject for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Respecting these private spaces is paramount. Remember that the beauty you see is the result of residents' hard work and dedication to their homes. Stick to the public path and refrain from entering any private property.
Navigating the Steep Climb and Bay Views
The climb itself is a workout, often described as a great way to get exercise and strengthen your heart and posture. Many locals use the steps for their daily fitness routines, running them or using them for interval training.
When planning your ascent, wear comfortable, supportive shoes and bring water, especially on warmer days. Pace yourself and take breaks to soak in the scenery. The journey up is as much about the experience of the climb and the evolving views as it is about reaching the destination.
Living on the Filbert Steps: A Unique Experience
However, daily life involves a significant amount of physical effort. Simple tasks like grocery shopping or carrying packages become a substantial workout due to the steepness of the steps.
Despite the challenges, the Filbert Steps remain a beloved part of San Francisco. The community actively participates in maintaining its beauty, with initiatives like the Filbert Steps Cleanup every second Wednesday of the month highlighting their commitment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit