So You Wanna Ogle At Some of San Francisco's Most Notorious Pads?
Ah, San Francisco. Home to cable cars, sourdough bread, and a whole lotta houses that have seen some things. But we're not talking about your average, boring split-level. We're talking about mansions with more stories than a gossip rag, Victorians painted in colors that would make a parrot jealous, and even a house (or should we say, former house) that's become synonymous with a creepy cult leader.
So, grab your metaphorical monocle (or your actual sunglasses, depending on the San Francisco fog situation) and let's take a peek at some of the city's most famous abodes.
Tip: Don’t skip — flow matters.
| What Famous Houses Are In San Francisco |
Painted Ladies: The Most Instagrammable Bunch of Broads on the Block
You've seen them in a million photos, movies, and even that weird dream you had about Full House characters riding cable cars. These Victorians on Steiner Street, also known as Postcard Row, are like the rockstars of San Francisco houses. Each one boasts a different color scheme, from sunny yellow to sassy lavender, making them a guaranteed head-turner (or neck-craner, depending on how comfy those cable cars are).
Tip: A slow skim is better than a rushed read.
Fun Fact: The vibrant colors we see today weren't always there! Originally, these houses were a more sedate cream. But in the 1960s, an artist named Butch Kardum decided to liven things up, and bam! Instant internet (well, not quite internet, but you get the idea) fame.
Tip: Reread complex ideas to fully understand them.
Houses of Fame (and Sometimes Shame): From Full House to That's So Raven
San Francisco has been a backdrop for countless films and TV shows, and naturally, some houses have become stars in their own right.
QuickTip: Let each idea sink in before moving on.
- There's the Full House house (actually two locations!), forever etched in our memories for its charming facade and, of course, the catchy theme song.
- Then there's the That's So Raven house, because who wouldn't want to live in a place that stylish?
- And how about the Mrs. Doubtfire house, a testament to the power of good wigs and even better acting (sorry, Robin Williams, we had to).
Warning: These houses are private residences, so please be a respectful tourist and just snap your pics from a distance. No creepy stalking allowed (unless you're channeling your inner Mrs. Doubtfire, but even then, use common sense).
The Notorious Pads: When Houses Get a Bad Rap
San Francisco has its fair share of houses with a darker past. We're talking about:
- The Charles Manson house, a place that needs no introduction (although, for those who haven't brushed up on their 60s history, let's just say it wasn't exactly a sunshine and rainbows kind of vibe).
**Please note: There are no tours of this house, and for good reason. Respect the residents of the neighborhood and avoid loitering.
On a lighter note (well, lighter-ish), there's also:
- The former Grateful Dead house on Ashbury Street, a historical landmark for a different kind of revolution (and some killer tie-dye, no doubt).
So You've Seen the Sights, Now Test Your House-Spotting Knowledge!
- How many houses are there in the famous Painted Ladies row? There are seven vibrantly colored Victorian houses on Postcard Row.
- Can you visit the Full House house for a photo op? Unfortunately, both locations used for the Tanner family home are private residences. Admire from afar!
- What house is associated with the Hell's Angels? The building at 719 Ashbury St. served as the headquarters for the infamous motorcycle club.
- How can I find out more about San Francisco's architectural history? The San Francisco Historical Society is a great resource to learn about the city's many architectural gems.
- Is it okay to trespass on private property to get a closer look at a famous house? Absolutely not! Be respectful of residents' privacy and admire these houses from a safe distance.