(Interactive Map) San Francisco’s Stairway Treasures: An Exploration of 900+ Public Portals

October Marks San Francisco’s Inaugral Stairway Month

Our fair City, known for its 7 hills and scenic landscapes, has over 900 public stairways that serve as gateways between neighborhoods, into parks, and portals up and down the hills. These stairways offer practical pedestrian links but also a captivating way to explore the city's unique geography, history, and art. This October, starting today we get to celebrate the inaugural SF Stairway Month, so with that in mind let’s delve into the stories behind some of San Francisco's most iconic stairways and how you can discover all of these stairways using an interactive map.

The Origins of SF Stairway Month

The concept of SF Stairway Month was first proposed by Burnside Mural+, a resident-led initiative devoted to creating visual tributes to Glen Park's rich history through murals and a tiled stairway. San Francisco District 8 Supervisor Rafael Mandelman officially designated October as San Francisco Stairway Month. 

Why Are San Francisco’s Stairs So Important?

These stairways should be considered cherished public spaces akin to parks, parklets, and trails. They offer San Francisco residents and visitors a chance to enjoy access, outdoor exercise, stunning views, and a journey through the city's cultural tapestry.

Iconic San Francisco Stairways

1. 16th Avenue Tiled Steps (The Moraga Steps) - Known for its stunning mosaic tiles, this stairway in the Inner Sunset offers breathtaking panoramic views from the top. Each tile was hand-placed by neighborhood volunteers, creating a piece of public art that draws visitors from around the world. Bring your camera and get in line, this is one of our most popular stairways.
2. Filbert Steps - Nestled in the Telegraph Hill neighborhood, these steps weave their way through lush gardens and lead you to the iconic Coit Tower, offering glimpses of historic homes and vibrant flora along the way.
3. Lyon Street Steps - Situated in the upscale Pacific Heights neighborhood, this stairway provides a popular spot for rigorous workouts (read: stairmaster) but also rewards visitors with commanding views of the Palace of Fine Arts, the Marina, and the Bay. Be sure to check out the recently installed Lyon St Mural by artist Matley Hurd. The mural features the Telegraph Hill parrots, dahlias (the official flower of San Francisco), and the Golden Gate Bridge.
4. Vallejo Street Steps - Found in the Russian Hill neighborhood, these steps are steep and scenic, enveloped by grand homes and offering fantastic views of Alcatraz and the North Bay.
5. Tompkins Stairway Gardens - A true community effort located in the Portola neighborhood, these steps are surrounded by a thriving garden maintained by local volunteers, making it a peaceful, green retreat.

Tompkin Stairs

INTERACTIVE MAP of San Francisco’s Stairways

To start your stairway adventure, check out the Interactive Stairway Map. Zoom in, choose a neighborhood you want to explore, and click on the map pins to see photos and details of each stairway. This tool is perfect for planning your visits and uncovering the hidden stairway treasures scattered across the city. Credit to Alexandra Kenin/Urban Hiker for compiling this data!

The red map pins represent some of the most impressive stairways in the city, orange are the next tier and continuing through the rainbow to blue. Black still ned to be verified.

Celebrating SF Stairway Month

So lace up your walking shoes, grab a camera, and embark on a stairway adventure this October. Discover the beauty, history, and community spirit embedded in San Francisco’s many public stairways.

For more information on stairway projects and community efforts, visit the SF Parks Alliance here.

Happy stair climbing!

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If you enjoy interactive maps, check out our walking tour of Earthquake shacks.