Buena Vista: San Francisco’s Oldest Official Park and a Hillside Haven

Situated near the intersection of the Haight-Ashbury and Corona Heights districts, Buena Vista is best known for Buena Vista Park, established in 1867 and celebrated as the oldest official park in San Francisco. At the time, a rapidly expanding population encouraged city leaders to preserve green spaces, and Buena Vista’s steep slopes and commanding views made it an ideal candidate. Originally called “Hill Park,” the site was renamed “Buena Vista” to highlight its panoramic outlook over the city and the bay.

In the late 19th century, the area surrounding the park began to develop with large Victorian homes, many of which survived the 1906 earthquake and still stand today. Early residents prized Buena Vista for its relative tranquility, away from downtown’s bustle. Over the decades, additional housing filled in, from stately Edwardian mansions to more modest single-family homes.

Despite the growth around it, Buena Vista Park remains a focal point for locals seeking respite from urban life. Winding trails meander through groves of cypress and eucalyptus trees, offering vistas of San Francisco’s skyline and glimpses of the Golden Gate Bridge. The neighborhood’s mix of historical architecture and greenery provides an almost secluded ambiance—while still sitting on the edge of some of the city’s most vibrant districts. Whether residents are walking their dogs, jogging the hilly paths, or simply soaking in a sunset, Buena Vista continues to embody the spirit of old San Francisco charm fused with a contemporary urban lifestyle.