HISTORY

Alta Plaza lays claim to a unique role in San Francisco ‘s history. It operated as a rock quarry until 1877 when the City purchased the 12-acre parcel for park development. However, thirty years elapsed before its transformation into the incomparable terraced plaza of today. Conceived and executed by John McLaren, designer of Golden Gate Park, its elevated design reveals sweeping views of San Francisco.

The park is one of 114 sites in San Francisco with an Outdoor Warning System siren. In an actual emergency, the siren tone will cycle repeatedly for 5 minutes and you should go indoors and immediately tune to a news source such as KCBS 740 AM, or other local media stations.

FRIENDS OF ALTA PLAZA PARK

Friends of Alta Plaza Park is a non-profit community based volunteer organization dedicated to the enjoyment, beautification and safety of our park. We also represent the interests of the community with the City of San Francisco, the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department, and San Francisco Parks Alliance.

We are an inclusive group that welcomes all members of the community who wish to support the goal of making Alta Plaza Park the best it can be -- clean, with well-maintained landscaping, facilities in good repair, and features that appeal to a wide range of community members. We depend on your support and involvement to ensure that Alta Plaza Park -- a gem of a park in a spectacular location -- is well tended and that it adapts to the needs of our community over time.

Find out how you can support us or get involved now. 

ALTA PLAZA PARK GARDENING STAFF

We're very pleased to report that Joe Copestake returns to Alta Plaza Park after having served at Lafayette Park for a decade.