Posted in San Francisco July 22, 2016 by Stephanie Garr

There’s A Little Slice Of Paradise Hiding Right Here In San Francisco… And You’ll Want To Visit

San Francisco is full of places to escape the urban hustle and bustle—you just have to keep your eyes open (and your Pokemon games away). In fact, the city has dedicated a lot of room for residents to enjoy the great outdoors with over 220 green spaces available. One of our favorite little slices of paradise is the small yet scenic Ina Coolbrith Park in the heart of Russian Hill. Warning: You will be forced to climb at least one steep hill to get to this 0.8-acre park. But it’s worth it!

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate

First, a little history: One of San Francisco's most beloved literary figures, Ina Donna Coolbrith was the first California Poet Laureate. She was very much inspired by her adopted home of San Francisco. This park was dedicated to her in 1911. It's located one block from the home she lived in before the 1906 earthquake and fires, which ended up destroying much of her work.

This pic was taken from Ina Coolbrith's window, circa 1905.

To get to Ina Coolbrith Park: Climb up Taylor Street to reach its intersection with Vallejo Street (at 1715 Taylor Street), or walk up Vallejo from the east and ascend this foliage-lined stairway.

At the top of Taylor Street, look north for a stunning view down the hill and into the Bay, all the way to Alcatraz.

Turn east to look down over downtown San Francisco and the Bay Bridge.

And check out Coit Tower peeking out from Telegraph Hill.

You may even spot the famous wild parrots of Telegraph Hill who like to hang out over here as well.

Don't forget to take a seat, let your mind unwind, and contemplate life, love, and San Francisco at Poets Corner.

And be sure to check out the park after the sun sets, too—it's a perfect destination for a romantic post-dinner walk.

Have you been to Ina Coolbrith Park? Where do you go to catch a little slice of paradise in San Francisco? If you’re hunting for another underrated park in San Francisco, we recommend this one right here.