LOST!? - Potrero Hill Guide
A Guide to the Best San Francisco Skyline Views from Potrero Hill
San Francisco is known for its stunning skyline, and one of the best (and often overlooked) places to take it all in is Potrero Hill. With its quiet streets, scenic hilltops, and breathtaking city views, this neighborhood is a must-visit for anyone looking to see San Francisco’s skyline from a unique perspective.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best spots in Potrero Hill to view the SF skyline, plus tips on how to get there, when to visit, and what to explore nearby.
Why Potrero Hill is a Hidden Gem for SF Views
Unlike busier tourist spots like Twin Peaks or Coit Tower, Potrero Hill offers a more peaceful experience with unobstructed views of the downtown skyline, Bay Bridge, and beyond. Here’s why you should check it out:
🌆 Panoramic City Views – See downtown San Francisco, the Bay Bridge, and Sutro Tower from different hilltops.
🌅 Perfect for Sunsets – Watch the city lights start to twinkle as the sun sets behind the skyline.
🚶♂️ Quiet & Walkable Streets – Unlike crowded tourist spots, Potrero Hill is calm, scenic, and ideal for a relaxed stroll.
📸 Photography Heaven – Capture Instagram-worthy shots of San Francisco without the crowds.
☕ Great Cafés & Eateries Nearby – After your walk, explore some of SF’s best coffee shops and restaurants.
Best Walking Route for Skyline Views in Potrero Hill
📍 Distance: ~1.5 miles | ⏳ Time: 30–45 minutes
This scenic walking loop will take you to the best viewpoints in Potrero Hill while letting you explore the neighborhood’s charming streets.
1. Start at 20th Street & Wisconsin Street
🟢 Why: One of the best elevated views of the SF skyline, with a clear view of downtown and the Bay Bridge.
📸 Photo Tip: Walk to the middle of the street for an epic shot of the city framed by this quiet SF neighborhood.
➡️ Walk east on 20th Street toward Arkansas Street, enjoying skyline views between the houses.
2. Stop at 22nd Street & Missouri Street
🟢 Why: A lesser-known hidden viewpoint with a dramatic downhill perspective of SF’s skyline.
📸 Photo Tip: Capture the contrast of Potrero’s peaceful streets against the buzzing city backdrop.
➡️ Continue along Missouri Street, turning left on 19th Street.
3. Walk to McKinley Square Park
🟢 Why: This small hilltop park offers expansive views of the downtown skyline, the Bay Bridge, and parts of the Mission District.
🌳 Bonus: There’s plenty of space to sit and relax if you want to watch the sunset.
➡️ From here, loop back via Vermont Street (home to SF’s “other crooked street” that’s even twistier than Lombard!).
Best Time to Visit Potrero Hill for Views
☀️ Golden Hour (Sunrise or Sunset): The city looks especially magical when bathed in golden light.
🌙 At Night: Watch San Francisco’s skyline light up against the dark sky.
📆 Weekdays: If you want the streets all to yourself for photos, go during the week when it’s less busy.
How to Get to Potrero Hill
🚇 By Public Transit:
• Take Muni Bus 10, 19, or 22 to reach the neighborhood.
• The closest BART station is 16th Street Mission, about a 20-minute walk away.
🚗 By Car:
• Street parking is relatively easy compared to other SF neighborhoods, but be mindful of permit restrictions.
🚲 By Bike:
• Be prepared for some steep climbs, but the views are worth the effort!
What Else to Do in Potrero Hill
🍽 Eat at Local Cafés & Restaurants: Try Plow (for an amazing brunch) or Farley’s (a cozy coffee shop with great views).
🛍 Explore Boutique Shops: Potrero Hill has small local stores that are perfect for browsing.
🏙 Walk to Nearby Mission Bay & Dogpatch: These neighborhoods are just a short walk away and offer even more city views, waterfront spots, and great food.
Final Thoughts
Potrero Hill is one of San Francisco’s best-kept secrets for stunning skyline views, peaceful streets, and scenic walks. Whether you’re a photography lover, a sunset chaser, or just looking for a quiet place to take in the city, this neighborhood is a must-visit.
🌁 Have you explored Potrero Hill? Let us know your favorite viewpoint in the comments! 👇
