Mission Dolores Park

Dolores St &, 19th St, San Francisco, CA 94114
16 acres | 6.5 hectares

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About the Location

Location and Features

Nestled in the heart of San Francisco, Mission Dolores Park sprawls across nearly 16 acres of prime urban greenspace. Sitting pretty at the western edge of the Mission District, the park is hugged by 18th Street to the north, 20th Street to the south, Dolores Street to the east, and Church Street to the west.

One of the park's notable characteristics is its sloping landscape, which climbs from southwest to northeast, offering you panoramic views of downtown San Francisco and the city's skyline. These vistas are particularly beautiful at sunset - good for photos or just quietly soaking in the beauty of the city.

Miguel Hidalgo Y Costilla statue standing tall against the blue sky
Miguel Hidalgo Y Costilla statue standing tall against the blue sky

Amenities and Recreation

If you're feeling active, Dolores Park offers tennis courts, basketball courts, and soccer fields where locals and visitors alike can play. The Helen Dillard Playground is a hit with families, offering modern play structures where kiddos of all ages can climb, slide, and explore.

When nature calls, clean public restrooms are conveniently located at the northwest corner and bottom of the park, including an outdoor urinal near the J Church Muni stop. While there are some picnic tables scattered throughout, most parkgoers opt for the classic San Francisco experience - spreading out a blanket on the grassy slopes and making themselves at home.

Sweeping view of the lawn with city buildings in the distance
Sweeping view of the lawn with city buildings in the distance
Photo: BuddyL (CC0 1.0)

Dog-Friendly Environment

Four-legged friends are more than welcome here! The park is incredibly dog-friendly with designated off-leash areas at the bottom section. On any given day, you'll spot many dogs running around, playing fetch, and socializing with other dogs.

View through palm fronds toward the park's open spaces
View through palm fronds toward the park's open spaces
Photo: BuddyL (CC0 1.0)

Historical Background

Dolores Park has a rich history behind its green spaces. Established in 1905 on what was once a Jewish cemetery, the park later served as a refuge for those displaced by the devastating 1906 San Francisco earthquake and fire.

Over the decades, it has evolved into the vibrant community space we know today, drawing thousands when the sun makes an appearance. Its historical significance feels even richer given its proximity to the Mission Dolores Church, which has stood since 1900.

Grassy hillside offering panoramic views of the San Francisco skyline
Grassy hillside offering panoramic views of the San Francisco skyline

Recent Improvements

In 2016, the park got a major facelift with renovations improving irrigation systems and adding new amenities. Blessed with a sunny microclimate that often escapes San Francisco's notorious fog, it's no wonder this park has become a hot spot for sunbathing, picnicking, and hanging out.

Visitors enjoying the park's hillside on a warm evening
Visitors enjoying the park's hillside on a warm evening

Community Hub

At its heart, Dolores Park is a cultural melting pot that hosts everything from free movie screenings to cultural festivals and performances during the year.

What makes this park special is its wonderfully diverse crowd and laid-back vibe. Weekends transform the space into a buzzing social scene - you'll see everything from impromptu yoga sessions to amateur musicians, picnickers, and people simply lounging with a good book. Sometimes local vendors appear selling treats, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Tucked between the colorful Mission District and the historic Castro neighborhood, the park inherits an eclectic character that draws both locals and curious tourists. It reflects San Francisco's diverse character - a place where people from all walks of life gather to enjoy an outdoor space.

Visitors enjoying the sunny lawn on a gorgeous day
Visitors enjoying the sunny lawn on a gorgeous day

Visitor Information

The park welcomes visitors daily from 6AM to 10PM. Fair warning: it gets packed on weekends and holidays, especially when the sun is shining. Your best bet is to take public transportation - the J Church Muni line stops right at the northwest corner, and the 33 bus line serves the northeast corner. If you must drive, be prepared for the classic San Francisco parking challenge in surrounding streets.

For the best experience, bring a blanket to sit on and pack some snacks and drinks. And please remember to clean up after yourself - keeping this cherished community space beautiful depends on everyone doing their part.

All Features & Facilities

Active Recreation

Basketball CourtSoccer FieldTennis Court

Nature & Wildlife

Dog-Friendly AreaOpen Grassy Area

Visitor Services

PlaygroundRestrooms

Food & Gathering

Picnic AreaConcession Area

Photo Gallery (click to enlarge)

Sunny walkway with palm trees at the east entrance to the park
Sunny walkway with palm trees at the east entrance to the park
Visitors on the grass with Mission High School in the background
Visitors on the grass with Mission High School in the background
Mexico Liberty Bell monument in its white frame
Mexico Liberty Bell monument in its white frame
Open green lawn area with surrounding buildings visible in background
Open green lawn area with surrounding buildings visible in background
Photo: BuddyL (CC0 1.0)
Wide pathways lead to the park's center
Wide pathways lead to the park's center
Photo: BuddyL (CC0 1.0)
Palm-dotted entrance with Mexico Liberty Bell visible
Palm-dotted entrance with Mexico Liberty Bell visible
Photo: BuddyL (CC0 1.0)
Sweeping view of the lawn with city buildings in the distance
Sweeping view of the lawn with city buildings in the distance
Photo: BuddyL (CC0 1.0)
Grassy hillside offering panoramic views of the San Francisco skyline
Grassy hillside offering panoramic views of the San Francisco skyline
Visitors enjoying the sunny lawn on a gorgeous day
Visitors enjoying the sunny lawn on a gorgeous day
View from the southeast corner of the park
View from the southeast corner of the park
Photo: BuddyL (CC0 1.0)
Rails run along the park's west side
Rails run along the park's west side
Hillside lawn with downtown San Francisco visible on the horizon
Hillside lawn with downtown San Francisco visible on the horizon
Impressive vista point with dramatic city skyline view
Impressive vista point with dramatic city skyline view
Wide palm-bordered pathways cutting through the park
Wide palm-bordered pathways cutting through the park
Gently sloping lawn area with visitors enjoying the empty park
Gently sloping lawn area with visitors enjoying the empty park
Helen Diller Playground surrounded by trees and greenery
Helen Diller Playground surrounded by trees and greenery
Open grassy field with a stunning San Francisco backdrop
Open grassy field with a stunning San Francisco backdrop
Miguel Hidalgo Y Costilla statue standing tall against the blue sky
Miguel Hidalgo Y Costilla statue standing tall against the blue sky
View through palm fronds toward the park's open spaces
View through palm fronds toward the park's open spaces
Photo: BuddyL (CC0 1.0)
The park is a wonderful location in the heart of San Francisco
The park is a wonderful location in the heart of San Francisco
Photo: BuddyL (CC0 1.0)
Visitors enjoying the park's hillside on a warm evening
Visitors enjoying the park's hillside on a warm evening
Palm trees frame the city vista from the park's overlook
Palm trees frame the city vista from the park's overlook

ParkMagnet Score

Great Park

Park Size

16 acres | 6.5 hectares

Opening Hours

Monday:6AM-10PM
Tuesday:6AM-10PM
Wednesday:6AM-10PM
Thursday:6AM-10PM
Friday:6AM-10PM
Saturday:6AM-10PM
Sunday:6AM-10PM

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