Neighborhoods

Marina / Pacific Heights

The Marina's boutiques and restaurants attract a hip, younger crowd, while the views and stately homes of Pacific Heights take your breath away.

Palace of Fine Arts at night.
Palace of Fine Arts at night.

Along the city's northern shore lies the Marina District, an area that's continually evolved throughout its history — from ocean dunes to exposition grounds to fishing haven to quaint residential area — and has been shaped by each of its former selves.

Things to Do in Marina / Pacific Heights

Enjoy a sunny afternoon stroll down Union Street past many boutiques, spas and restaurants housed in beautifully restored Victorian buildings. Marina Green, ringed by bobbing boats and serenaded by foghorns, is picturesque.

An Instagram favorite is the Palace of Fine Arts. Its arresting Greco-Roman-style rotunda and majestic colonnades never fail to impress visitors and many wedding photographers favor the site.

Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture, a converted military base, is home to arts organizations and Off the Grid, a regular food truck gathering.

Excellent dining, from fast casual to three-course indulgences, can be found along Chestnut Street. Reserve a table at the Michelin-starred Atelier Crenn for a superb prix fixe menu that changes with the seasons.

For some of the city’s best views, climb the steps on Fillmore or Lyon streets to Pacific Heights, which rests atop a ridge to the south of the Marina. This tony neighborhood features exquisite homes, including the one that doubled as the Hillard residence in Mrs. Doubtfire. Fine boutiques and bars with sidewalk seating can be found along Fillmore Street, which gradually slopes down through the neighborhood before taking you to Japantown and other destinations.

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