The Painted Ladies are San Francisco’s most iconic row of Victorian homes, instantly recognizable from movies, postcards, and the opening credits of Full House. Set against the stunning skyline, these colorful homes offer visitors a perfect mix of architecture, history, and skyline views — making them a must-see stop on any San Francisco itinerary.
Whether you’re snapping pics from Alamo Square or taking a guided architectural tour, here’s your full guide to the Painted Ladies Tour!
📍 Where Are the Painted Ladies?
📍 Located at 710–720 Steiner Street, across from Alamo Square Park, San Francisco, CA.
🗺️ Neighborhood: Western Addition / Alamo Square
💡 “Painted Ladies” refers to Victorian and Edwardian homes painted in 3+ colors to enhance their architectural details.
🖼️ What Makes the Painted Ladies Famous?
- The row of houses is nicknamed “Postcard Row”
- Featured in Full House, Mrs. Doubtfire, and dozens of films & shows
- Built between the 1890s–early 1900s
- They’re known for Queen Anne-style architecture, bay windows, ornate trim, and pastel colors
🚶 Painted Ladies Tour Options
1️⃣ Self-Guided Visit to Alamo Square
🕒 Time: 20–45 minutes
💰 Price: FREE
⭐ What to do:
- Relax in Alamo Square Park
- Take photos of the houses + skyline
- Explore the neighborhood’s historic architecture
📌 Tip: Bring a blanket or coffee — it’s a great picnic/photo spot!
2️⃣ Guided Walking Tour
🕒 Time: 1.5–2 hours
💰 Price: $25–$40
⭐ Includes:
- Learn about Victorian architecture & SF history
- Explore nearby streets with hidden architectural gems
- Some tours include interior access to a restored Victorian home (select tours only)
📌 Best Companies: ✔ Wild SF Tours
✔ Victorian Home Walk
✔ SF City Guides (donation-based)
3️⃣ Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
🕒 Time: Full-day pass
💰 Price: ~$60
⭐ Includes:
- Stop at Alamo Square for the Painted Ladies
- Audio guide about architecture and SF history
- Combines with Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, and more
4️⃣ Photography Tour
📷 For photography lovers, this area is one of SF’s most beautiful sunrise/sunset photo ops.
📌 Best Photo Tip:
Shoot from Alamo Square’s east lawn to capture the houses in front of the downtown skyline.
🕒 Best Time to Visit the Painted Ladies
| Time | Why It’s Great |
|---|---|
| Morning (8–10 AM) | Fewer people, soft lighting |
| Golden Hour (5–7 PM) | Perfect sunset shots with warm light |
| Weekdays | Less crowded than weekends |
📌 Avoid foggy mornings in summer unless you want moody photos!
🎨 What to Do Nearby
✔ Alamo Square Park – Great views, playground, dog park
✔ Explore More Victorian Homes – Walk around Fell, Hayes, Grove, and Scott Streets
✔ NOPA & Hayes Valley – Trendy neighborhoods nearby for coffee, shopping & food
✔ The Painted Gentlemen – Another set of colorful Victorians just one block away!
❓ Painted Ladies Tour – FAQ
1️⃣ Can I go inside the Painted Ladies?
🟡 Not usually. They are private residences.
🔓 Occasionally, some are opened to the public via special home tours or walking tour access.
2️⃣ Are the Painted Ladies from Full House?
✅ Kind of! The houses in the opening scene of Full House are the Painted Ladies.
📍 But the actual Tanner house is at 1709 Broderick Street, about 10 minutes away.
3️⃣ How long should I spend at the Painted Ladies?
⏳ 30–45 minutes is plenty for photos and relaxing in the park.
⏳ Add another hour if you’re joining a walking tour.
4️⃣ Are there restrooms or food nearby?
🚻 Public restrooms available in Alamo Square Park
☕ Great cafés and bakeries are nearby in NOPA and Hayes Valley
5️⃣ Is it safe to visit?
✅ Yes! It’s a safe residential area and a popular tourist spot.
🚶 Just be cautious of traffic if crossing to take photos.
✅ Pro Tips for the Best Experience
- 📸 Bring a camera or phone with zoom for close-up architectural shots
- 🌿 Picnic in the park while enjoying the views
- 🎒 Bundle your visit with nearby neighborhoods like Haight-Ashbury, Hayes Valley, or Mission Dolores
🎟 Want Help Booking a Painted Ladies Tour?
Let me know! I can help you choose the best walking tour, architecture guide, or city combo tour that includes the Painted Ladies and more ✨🏠🌉
🏠 Painted Ladies Tour – FAQ
Planning to visit San Francisco’s iconic Painted Ladies at Alamo Square? Here’s a quick and helpful FAQ to make your visit smooth, fun, and photo-ready!
1️⃣ What are the Painted Ladies?
The Painted Ladies are a famous row of Victorian and Edwardian houses painted in multiple colors to highlight their architectural details.
🎨 Most recognized are the seven homes at 710–720 Steiner Street, across from Alamo Square Park—often featured in movies and postcards.
2️⃣ Where are they located?
📍 Steiner St between Grove & Hayes St, San Francisco, CA
📍 Across from Alamo Square Park in the Western Addition neighborhood
3️⃣ Can you go inside the Painted Ladies?
🚪 Normally, no — they are private residences.
🔓 Occasionally, one of the homes may be open for special home tours or included on a guided architectural tour.
4️⃣ Is it free to visit?
✅ Yes! Visiting the Painted Ladies and Alamo Square Park is completely free.
5️⃣ What’s the best time to visit?
| Time | Why It’s Great |
|---|---|
| Morning (8–10 AM) | Best lighting and fewer crowds |
| Golden Hour (5–7 PM) | Perfect for photos with sunset glow |
| Weekdays | Quieter than weekends |
📌 Tip: Check the weather — fog can hide the skyline view behind the homes!
6️⃣ How do I get there?
🚶 By foot: 20–30 min walk from City Hall or Hayes Valley
🚋 Public transit: Take MUNI buses 21, 5, or 22
🚗 Driving: Street parking is limited but available around the neighborhood
🚲 Bike/scooter: Hills are steep, so plan accordingly!
7️⃣ How long should I plan to stay?
⏳ 30–45 minutes for photos and relaxing
⏳ Up to 1.5 hours if you’re doing a guided walking tour
8️⃣ Are the Painted Ladies the Full House house?
🟡 No, the Full House opening shows the Painted Ladies, but the actual Tanner family house is at:
📍 1709 Broderick Street, about 10 minutes away by car or rideshare.
9️⃣ What tours include the Painted Ladies?
| Tour Type | Price Range | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Self-Guided Visit | Free | Walk around Alamo Square & take photos |
| Walking Tour | $25–$40 | History, architecture, nearby Victorian homes |
| Hop-On Hop-Off Bus | ~$60 | Stop at Alamo Square, plus Golden Gate Bridge, Chinatown, etc. |
📌 Tip: Try Victorian Home Walk or Wild SF Tours for deeper insight.
🔟 Are there bathrooms or food nearby?
🚻 Yes, there are public restrooms in Alamo Square Park.
🍽️ Walk to nearby NOPA or Hayes Valley for coffee, brunch, or snacks.
✅ Bonus Tips
- 📸 Best photo spot: From the east side of Alamo Square for skyline + Painted Ladies
- 🧥 Bring a light jacket – Even sunny days can be breezy
- 🌸 Spring and summer = best blooms around the homes
- 🐶 Great for dog lovers – Alamo Square has a dog-friendly area
🎟 Want help finding a walking tour or city pass that includes the Painted Ladies?
Just let me know! I can help you build a perfect San Francisco sightseeing plan that includes Victorian homes, iconic views, and more ✨🏠🌉
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