Spectacular Victorian Houses of San Francisco

San Francisco is famous for so many things! There are an endless amount of places and sites to discover in the city. World-famous sites such as The Golden Gate Bridge and cable cars are on top of the list for anyone visiting this beautiful city – but there is so much more!

You are probably already familiar with the city’s beautiful buildings from movies set in the city. San Francisco is famous for its beautiful architecture and especially the gorgeous Victorian houses scattered throughout town.

Here is a collection of some of the most beautiful ones I’ve come across…

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The History of Victorian Houses

The Victorian style architecture originated in England during the reign of Queen Victoria roughly between 1837 and 1901.
San Francisco was among the first cities in the US to embrace Victorian style architecture. It is estimated that over 40 000 Victorian style homes were built in San Francisco between 1850 and 1900. Sadly, many of these beautiful architectural gems were destroyed in 1906 earthquake that shook the whole city. Luckily a bunch of them still remain in the city today!

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Neighborhoods with Victorian Style Houses in San Francisco

You can find Victorian style houses throughout the city in San Francisco but there are some neighborhoods where they are concentrated. These neighborhoods include The Haight, Lower Haight, Nob Hill, Pacific Heights and Mission District. The best way to explore these neighborhoods is by bike as you can enjoy the criss-crossing streets.

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It’s All About the Details….

When it comes to Victorian style houses, it’s all about the details. I recommend stopping by and looking up at the intricate designs. Many Victorian houses feature beautiful turrets, porches and windows at the front of the house. However, it’s funny that often the unexposed side of the house is rather plain.

Painted Ladies aka “Seven Sisters” are arguably the most famous row of Victorian houses in San Francisco. Located at 720 Steiner Street next to Alamo Square Park, it offers a great spot to see many Victorian style Houses together with views of the city. It’s also a great spot for picnic attracting crowds to gather together especially when sun is out.

After seeing the famous Painted Ladies, walk up the hill to the other side of Alamo square park to Scott St. This side of the park tends to be less busy but still has many Victorian style houses to see. One to mention is the famous William Westerfeld House on the corner of Fulton and Scott.

Other Architectural Styles in San Francisco

It goes without saying that San Francisco is world-famous for its architecture. Especially the Victorian style architecture and modern architecture but also other architectural styles including Gothic, Edwardian, Art Deco, and Italianate.

Final Thoughts

While there is so much to see in the city, I highly recommend taking some time to explore the streets of San Francisco to discover these architectural gems. The best way to do so is by getting a bike from one of the city’s many bike rental spots or Bay Wheels. You might want to consider renting an electric one to make climbing those steep hills of San Francisco a little easier.

What are your favorite spots to see Victorian architecture in San Francisco? Let me know in comments below 🙂

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