Alta Plaza Park is a terraced green hilltop in the heart of Pacific Heights, laid out in the 1900s with grand stone staircases stepping down its southern slope — said to have been inspired by the gardens of European hill towns. From the top there are sweeping views south across the city toward Twin Peaks, and on a clear day the surrounding streets of mansions make the climb a pleasure in itself.
It is a relaxed neighbourhood park: tennis courts, a playground, and lawns full of dog-walkers and sunbathers, with far fewer visitors than the city's famous parks. The blocks immediately around it hold some of Pacific Heights' finest houses. A good spot to rest and take in the wealth and the views before walking down to the Fillmore Street shops.