San Francisco, a city known for its iconic hills and stunning vistas, holds a treasure trove of hidden gems for those willing to explore beyond the typical tourist trails. Among these urban secrets are the Lyon Street Stairs, a captivating pedestrian pathway in the prestigious Pacific Heights neighborhood. Offering breathtaking panoramic views and a healthy dose of exercise, these steps are a favorite among locals and an increasingly popular spot for visitors seeking an authentic San Francisco experience.
A picture of the top half of the Lyon Street Steps in San Francisco
This photo captures the meticulously maintained upper section of the Lyon Street Steps, adorned with a piece of weathered art that adds character and charm to the climb.
The Lyon Street Stairs, spanning two city blocks, present more than just a route from point A to point B; they offer an invigorating outdoor workout and a chance to witness some of the most picturesque scenery San Francisco has to offer. With over 300 steps in total, it’s no wonder fitness enthusiasts and personal trainers utilize this urban staircase for challenging workouts. Yet, even a leisurely stroll up or down these steps rewards you with stunning views and tranquil beauty. Many visitors, including myself, often spend a brief but fulfilling 10 to 15 minutes here, especially when exploring nearby attractions like Billionaire’s Row or the verdant Presidio. My collection of photos, taken across multiple visits, subtly chronicles the gentle aging of the artwork nestled within the steps, a testament to the passage of time in this dynamic city.
Exploring the Beauty of Lyon Street Steps
View from the top of the Lyon Street Steps
Gazing from the summit of Lyon Street Steps, this image encapsulates the sweeping vista, showcasing a sunny late summer day with a delicate layer of fog embracing the San Francisco Bay.
Nestled in the upscale Pacific Heights district, the Lyon Street Stairs gracefully ascend north to south along Lyon Street. Where a road would be too steep to navigate, these stairs provide an elegant solution, inviting pedestrians to traverse the incline. The journey commences at Broadway and Lyon Streets at the top, descending to Vallejo Street at its base. This upper section of the staircase is particularly renowned for its captivating views, lush greenery, vibrant floral arrangements, and a symbolic heart artwork located near the bottom, embodying the spirit of San Francisco.
Vallejo Street looking up at the Lyon Steps
This image provides an upward perspective from Vallejo Street, highlighting the initial flights of the Lyon Street Steps and the artwork as it appeared fresher, several years prior to the present day.
Comprising eight flights of stairs in its primary section, the Lyon Street Steps offer ample opportunities to pause, catch your breath, and immerse yourself in the surrounding beauty. Continuing southward from Vallejo Street for about half a block towards Green Street, the second section of the stairs presents a different character. While still adorned with greenery, these stairs are narrower and steeper, and the landscaping is less elaborate than the upper portion. The descent down this section reveals its significantly steeper incline.
Green Vallejo Stairs
Positioned at the summit of the Lyon Street Stairs’ second block, this photograph emphasizes the considerable steepness of this particular segment.
The lower section of the Lyon Street Stairs, completing the route, consists of two final flights of steps. In total, adventurers will conquer 332 steps from top to bottom, making it a rewarding mini-expedition.
Ideal Times to Visit Lyon Street Steps
Accessible around the clock, every day of the week, the Lyon Street Steps are a free and readily available San Francisco attraction. For those seeking an energizing workout, early morning is the prime time to visit, allowing you to potentially outpace the morning rush of fitness groups and personal training sessions.
Looking Up Lyon Street
A closer inspection of the Lyon Street Steps’ upper section, this photo invites viewers to appreciate the details of its design and landscaping.
Mid-afternoon also presents a quieter window to enjoy the steps, as workday schedules often mean fewer people are utilizing the stairs for exercise. During busier times, a simple tip to navigate the pedestrian traffic is to walk downwards on the right side and ascend on the left. If visiting in a group, walking single file and keeping to one side ensures that those using the stairs for running or jogging can pass with ease. By staying aware of your surroundings and keeping to the edges of the stairs, everyone can comfortably share this unique urban space.
Nearby Attractions to Lyon Street Steps
The location of the Lyon Street Steps makes them a perfect starting point or stop during a wider exploration of San Francisco. The surrounding Pacific Heights neighborhood is famed for its stunning architecture, including the grand mansions of Billionaire’s Row. A short distance away lies the Presidio, a sprawling park with walking trails, historical sites, and breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge. For broader San Francisco adventures, consider exploring other iconic areas and attractions easily accessible from Pacific Heights.
Directions to Lyon Street Steps
Broadway Lyon Street Intersection
This image pinpoints the intersection of Broadway and Lyon Streets, marking the upper entrance to the Lyon Street Steps and guiding visitors to the starting point of their climb.
Reaching the Lyon Street Steps is convenient from various points in San Francisco. The top entrance is located where Broadway meets Lyon Street; the street sign clearly marks your arrival at this unique destination.
From Fisherman’s Wharf
For those coming from Fisherman’s Wharf, public transportation offers a straightforward route. Begin by taking the 8 bus from Powell and North Point Streets and transfer to the 45 bus at Columbus Avenue & Union Streets. Ride the 45 to the stop at Union Street and Baker Street. From there, a short one-block walk west on Union Street to Lyon Street, followed by a left turn uphill, will lead you to the base of the Lyon Street Steps within a block and a half.
From Union Square
Access from Union Square is equally convenient, with a couple of public transit options available. You can opt for the 45 bus and follow the same directions as from Fisherman’s Wharf. Alternatively, the 2 bus, accessible at Sutter and Stockton Streets, offers another route. Get off at the California and Presidio Avenue stop. From there, walk up Lyon Street towards Broadway for six blocks – be prepared for some steep inclines in the final blocks. This walk will bring you directly to the top of the Lyon Street Stairs.
Discover More San Francisco Stairways
San Francisco’s urban landscape is enriched by numerous staircases, each with its own character and charm.
Filbert Street Stairs: Perhaps the most celebrated staircase in the city, the Filbert Street Stairs ascend from the waterfront area to the summit of Telegraph Hill, leading to the iconic Coit Tower. Explore pictures and details about climbing Filbert Street Stairs.
Greenwich Stairs: Situated just a block away from the Filbert Street Stairs, the Greenwich Stairs offer a less crowded alternative path to the top of Telegraph Hill and Coit Tower. View photos and learn more about the Greenwich Stairs.
My Collection of Favorite Staircases: Beyond these well-known stairways, San Francisco is dotted with many more hidden staircases waiting to be discovered. Explore a curated list of more of my favorite San Francisco staircases.
Hi, I’m Jill! Dreaming of your San Francisco getaway? As a local resident, I’m delighted to share my insider knowledge and personal experiences to ensure you make the most of your time in this remarkable city! READ ABOUT JILL
Lyon Streets Steps in San Francisco
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