The Panhandle San Francisco

Forgotten end of Golden Gate Park

Marcus from San Francisco

""The Panhandle" is the easternmost end of Golden Gate Park in San Francisco. It's fortunate to still exist, all through neighborhood efforts..."

Most people recognize Hippie Hill, Kezar Stadium and the Conservatory of Flowers as the easternmost end of Golden Gate Park. Little do they realize that the green space continues another eight blocks as the Panhandle. The Panhandle was originally supposed to be part of the park but was impossible to expand due to squatters who had built homes on either side. So it remains as a thin green strip from Stanyan to Baker bounded by Oak and Fell on either side. The Panhandle adds a lot to the Haight area by providing an ideal spot for walking, biking, dogs, picnics and other outdoor activities. It also functions as a bike commuter thoroughfare for people biking to work downtown.

The Panhandle is fortunate to still exist, as plans to convert it to a freeway were in the works at one point. The space was saved through neighborhood efforts and currently remains as an integral part of the region.

I will admit, in the past few years the park had fallen into slight disrepair. The basketball courts were dilapidated, the playground was not the most inviting and the place was just overall ill-kept. But fortunately it has seen a revival, with court improvements funded by the Warriors, a renovation of the playground as part of a city-wide project, and a general upturn in groundskeeping quality.

Relaxing

This week 25% off

with the code fall25

*on our yearly membership

San Francisco Spotter Marcus

About me I'm an SF native and have lived here since forever. I enjoy exploring, both within the city limits and around the area, specifically for places off the beaten path. I grew up near the Haight-Ashbury district and accordingly have developed a passion for the city's colorful music scene. I picked up playing guitar at age 6 and have continued to this day. I am currently in a band with some friends and we sometimes play at various small music venues around the city. Through music, both by attending concerts and performing, I've discovered a whole other layer to the city, one that is...

About this spot

The Panhandle

US$

free

Oct 5, 2025

Our San Francisco City Guide

Find your way with 158 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters

Discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our San Francisco guide.

Loved it? Join us!

Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!

Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:

Discover all other hidden gems in San Francisco

Pier Market

Another great one!

"Pier Market" in San Francisco's Pier 39 specializes in mesquite-grilled seafood. You should try the Mixed Grill and the lobster with drawn butter...

Restaurants

Kathleen

Messmer

Nov 13, 2025

Blazing Saddles

Bike rental shop

"Blazing Saddles" is the most extensive bike rental establishment in San Francisco. Are YOU ready to bike the bridge? If so, you should come here...

Art & culture

Relaxing

Kathleen

Messmer

Nov 13, 2025

Hole in the Wall Coffee

Don’t miss it

"Hole in the Wall Coffee" in San Francisco is in the beautiful neighborhood of Telegraph Hill/North Beach. Its name says it all, really...

Coffee & tea

Brooke

Ekdahl

Nov 13, 2025

Stow Lake

Paddle the afternoon away

I never hear anyone going to "Stow Lake" in San Francisco, yet it's one of the neatest little nooks in town! Time just seems to slip by there...

Relaxing

Brooke

Ekdahl

Nov 13, 2025

Tantrum

Darling shop for kids

I can tell you, if I was a child now and went into "Tantrum" in SF, I would freak out with genuine joy! So many playful gifts, books and party supplies!

Shopping

Brooke

Ekdahl

Nov 13, 2025

Sightglass Coffee

Kick back with quality coffee

"Sightglass Coffee" was one of the first coffee shops I visited in SF and remains one of my favorites. It's a neighborhood spot for friends to connect...

Coffee & tea