Maison Bleue Art Deco
The iconic blue house from Maxime Le Forestier's song, a pilgrimage site for French tourists in San Francisco's Castro.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best light for photos
Maison Bleue Art Deco
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The iconic blue house from Maxime Le Forestier's song, a pilgrimage site for French tourists in San Francisco's Castro.
"A legendary spot for a souvenir photo for French tourists, tied to a beautiful song."
🎶 Hum Along!
Bring headphones and listen to Maxime Le Forestier's 'San Francisco' while you're there for the full experience.
📸 Souvenir Shot
It's a popular spot for French tourists to snap a photo. Be patient if others are taking theirs.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Blue House
Castro District
The legendary blue facade that inspired a beloved French song. A must-see for music lovers and Francophiles.
The Story Plaque
Exterior of the house
A small plaque tells the tale behind the house and its connection to Maxime Le Forestier's song.
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Planning Your Visit
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Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎶 Hum Along!
Bring headphones and listen to Maxime Le Forestier's 'San Francisco' while you're there for the full experience.
📸 Souvenir Shot
It's a popular spot for French tourists to snap a photo. Be patient if others are taking theirs.
🚶♀️ Neighborhood Stroll
Combine your visit with a walk through the vibrant Castro district.
🚗 Easy Parking
Street parking is generally available, making it convenient to visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎶 Hum Along!
Bring headphones and listen to Maxime Le Forestier's 'San Francisco' while you're there for the full experience.
📸 Souvenir Shot
It's a popular spot for French tourists to snap a photo. Be patient if others are taking theirs.
🚶♀️ Neighborhood Stroll
Combine your visit with a walk through the vibrant Castro district.
🚗 Easy Parking
Street parking is generally available, making it convenient to visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Maison Bleue is a charming, albeit simple, attraction primarily for fans of Maxime Le Forestier's song. Visitors appreciate the emotional connection and the photo opportunity, though some find it to be just another house with a plaque. It's best enjoyed as part of a broader exploration of the vibrant Castro district.
"French people need to see this. The famous Maison Bleu."
Claire Mazoyer
"It's a nice house and even nicer story, at least the repainting, although the song San Francisco is not well known in the city San Francisco. You have to look at the house while listening to Maxime Le Forestier."
Martin Ressinger
"A legendary spot for a souvenir photo for French tourists. A small plaque on the house that sets the scene for the story. Easy street parking."
Catherine GOLDMAN
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Maison Bleue is located in the Castro District. You can reach it by public transport, with several Muni bus lines serving the area. If driving, street parking is often available nearby.
Yes, the Castro District is well-served by San Francisco's Muni bus system, making it accessible via public transport. Check Muni schedules for routes and times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Maison Bleue is a private residence. You can view and photograph the exterior from the street, and there is no admission fee.
As it's a private home, there are no official visiting hours. It's best to visit during daylight hours for photos and to experience the neighborhood's atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photos are taken from the street, capturing the iconic blue facade. Consider visiting during daylight for optimal lighting.
No, Maison Bleue is a private residence and you cannot go inside. All viewing and photography must be done from the exterior.
🎫 🎶 Music & History
The house is famously known from the song 'San Francisco' by French singer Maxime Le Forestier, which became an anthem for French tourists visiting the city. +1
While the song is a significant cultural touchstone for French visitors to San Francisco, it may not be widely recognized by locals.
For Different Travelers
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🇫🇷 French Visitors & Francophiles
Even if you're not French, appreciating the story behind the song adds a layer of charm to your visit. It's a reminder of how art and music can create lasting landmarks and connect people across borders. The house serves as a tangible link to the romanticized vision of San Francisco often portrayed in media.
📸 Photographers & Instagrammers
While it's a private residence, the exterior offers a great opportunity for unique shots, especially during daylight hours when the colors pop. Be mindful of residents and other visitors when taking photos. The charm of Maison Bleue lies in its simplicity and its connection to the song, so capturing that essence is key. Consider different angles and times of day to get the most compelling images.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Song That Made It Famous
While the song might not be a household name in San Francisco itself, its impact on French tourism is undeniable. It transforms a simple residential street into a landmark, drawing visitors who want to connect with the song's narrative and capture a piece of that musical history. The experience is often described as emotional and nostalgic, especially for those familiar with Le Forestier's work.
Experiencing the Castro District
Visitors often combine a stop at Maison Bleue with a broader exploration of the Castro. Walking through the streets, you'll encounter colorful murals, iconic rainbow flags, and a palpable sense of community. It's a neighborhood that invites you to wander, discover its stories, and soak in its unique energy.
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