Golden Gate and Dolores might get top billing, but San Francisco is literally blooming with public parks—did you know there is one city park per every half-mile here?
Grab your picnic blankets and a good read—here's our complete guide to SF parks, neatly organized for you by neighborhood.
Mission District
Dolores Park
An epicenter for all things progressive in SF, Dolores Park is a staple for locals and tourists, alike. The park's topography lends itself to unobstructed northeast-looking views of downtown San Francisco—so ready your smart phone cameras, gang.For the sport minded among us, feel free to make good use of the publicly accessible tennis and basketball courts, as well as the well-trimmed soccer field// Dolores St. and 19th St. (Mission), sfrecpark.org
Jose Coronado Playground
Enjoy a sweet slice of natural serenity at this quaint, near as much one-acre urban escape. A community clubhouse can be found on-site, as well as tennis and basketball courts; the soccer fields are often reserved for private practices. // 21st St. and Folsom St. (Mission District), sfrecpark.org
Mission Playground
Known for its modern, minimalist flare, this Mission staple playground also doubles as a water park; a center water spewing structure can cool down even the sweatiest individual. Unfortunately, Mission Playground isn't the best place to bring your four-legged companion too. (The space is already tight as it is.) // 19th St. and Linda St. (Mission District), sfrecpark.org
Kid Power Park
Just as the name suggest: this quarter-acre cutout of the Mission is strictly suited to those still catching the (yellow) bus. Parents and millennials, feel free to take solace—maybe even a siesta—atop the comfy park benches. // 45 Hoff St. (Mission District), sfrecpark.org
In Chan Kaajal Park
Once known as the 17th and Folsom Park, In Chan Kaajal Park was given its newfound name in March of this year. Still boasting much of the same quirky play structures and seating arrangements, it still has much of the charm its older iteration managed to foster for all those years. // 17th St. and Folsom St. (Mission District), sfrecpark.org
Parque Ninos Unidos
Very much to its name, Parque Nino Unidos had, indeed, united children from all walks of life to come together in outdoor play. A clubhouse and gazebo can both be found within the park's confines, as well as two large green areas meant for basking, yoga, napping, what have you. // 23rd St. and Treat Ave. (Mission District), sfrecpark.org
Franklin Square Park
A space for the whole family, Franklin Square is packed with recreational courts and even an off-leash dog open space. Take advantage of the fully lit soccer field, if you're looking to improve your juggling and power kicks. // 16th and Bryan Street. (Mission), sfrecpark.org
24th and York Mini Park
Murals line this small street park, including a large snake mosaic. There are no restrooms here, so take care of business beforehand. // 24th St. and York St. (Mission), sfrecpark.org
Garfield Square Park
This four-acre space has soccer greens, publicly accessible pools and even well-painted murals to admire. On October 31, the park is lined with Day of the Dead homages. // 2965 Harrison St. (Mission), sfrecpark.org
