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.
Potrero Hill + Dogpatch
Potrero Hill Mini Park
Just a short walk from the neighborhood rec center, this small open space has off-leash dog areas and spellbinding views of the San Francisco Bay. Enjoy the blossoms and plant life found just a few yards away at the Connecticut Friendship Gardens. // Connecticut and 22nd St. (Potrero Hill), sfrecpark.org
Potrero Hill Rec Center
If you're ever looking to play hoops in a stadium-quality setting, then go for a game of doubles at Potrero Hill Rec Center. Besides their hella great indoor basketball court, the rec center is surrounded by pristine green spaces along with barbecue grills and picnic tables. // 801 Arkansas St. (Potrero Hill), sfrecparks.org
Jackson Playground/Park
With a bevy of picnic areas and swaths of green, this four-acre urban park has ample room for everyone in the neighborhood to have lunch under the sun. Afterward, burn off some of those calories with matchups on the tennis or basketball courts; a walking path borders the park for those who prefer a more relaxing activity. // 17th and Arkansas St. (Potrero Hill), sfrecpark.org
Utah and 18th Mini Park
What was once the underspace of a 1960s walking bridge is now a vivacious, green plaza for all to enjoy. Admire the growing flora and sweeping views of SF from atop this much-celebrated neighborhood space. // 18th and Utah St. (Potrero Hill), sfrecpark.org
McKinley Square Park
Enjoy the panoramic views of South San Francisco from one of the many picnic tables. While you're at it, appreciate the growing number of cypress trees here; a community garden can be found just shy of the playground.Check out the community garden beds within the park's confines to see what the neighborhood is growing. // Vermont and 20th St. (Potrero Hill), sfrecpark.org
Esprit Park
Barbecue till your heart's content while you let the family dog get his zoomies out in the open field. Bordered by a pristine growth of mature redwoods, this is a great spot to have a weekend cookout. // Minnesota and 19th St. (Dogpatch), sfrecpark.org
Warm Water Cove Park
Adorned with large works from local graffiti artists, Warm Water Cove is a popular underground punk-rock venue. Each week, musicians from all walks of life can be seen setting up for spontaneous shows. Picnic tables can be found at the upper portion of the park for lunch with a view. // 300 24th St. (Dogpatch), sfparkalliance.org
