Fodor's Expert Review Alamo Square Park

Whether you've seen them on postcards or on the old TV show Full House, the colorful "Painted Ladies" Victorian houses are some of San Francisco's world-renowned icons. The signature view of these beauties with the downtown skyline in the background is from the east side of this hilly park. Tourists love the photo opportunities, but locals also adore the park's tennis courts, dog runs, and ample picnic area—with great views, of course. After taking plenty of photos, swing by the park's northwest corner and admire the William Westerfeld House ( 1198 Fulton St.), a splendid five-story late-19th-century Victorian mansion. If it's a sunny day, grab picnic provisions from Bi-Rite Market. Thursday through Sunday, the Lady Falcon Coffee Club truck is stationed in the park, offering a great caffeine pick-me-up.