Fay Park

Explore the lattice gardens, boxwood hedges, and other green attraction in this quarter-acre plot off Lombard Street. Take note of the 1910 architecture and housing surrounding the terraced gardens./ 2366 Leavenworth St. (Russian Hill), sfrecpark.org

Alice Marble Courts

Play tennis with a view of the San Francisco Bay—but don't get too distracted. A bevy of running trails can be found surrounding the perimeter of the park, too. // Greenwich and Hyde St. (Russian Hill), sfrekpark.org

Michelangelo Playground

A well-planted gem worth its weight in topsoil, this half-acre park is great for playing basketball, having a spontaneous picnic, or just straight-up relaxing atop the lush greens. // Greenwich and Jones St. (Russian Hill), sfrecpark.org

Hyde and Vallejo Mini Park

Take a siesta or escape the work grind for a bit at this tenth-acre planted space. Check out the the Old World–inspired walkway weaving together this small 15-acre park. // Hyde and Vallejo St. (Russian Hill), sfrecpark.org

Ina Coolbrith Park

With grand views of the Bay, this cute urban park is a fantastic place to get some midday R&R. Word to the wise: It's a steep hike up from the street, so trekking to the top of Ina Coolbrith Park isn't exactly a walk in the park. // Vallejo and Taylor St. (Russian Hill), sfrecpark.org

Helen Wills Playground

With a pimped-out playground for the kiddos and copious benches to lounge on, it's an urban delight for all ages; the wrapping boardwalk also offers stellar views of the neighborhood. // Broadway and Larkin St. (Russian Hill), sfrecpark.org

Broadway Tunnel West Mini Park

Seek shelter among the towering evergreens, then take a stroll through the Cable Car Museum just a few blocks south of the park. // 1201 Broadway (Russian Hill), sfrecpark.org

Broadway Tunnel Mini Park

Pretty much the exact same experience that can be had at the park above, but this one just has more benches. // Broadway and Himmelman Pl. (Russian Hill), sfrecpark.org