Pacific Heights

San Francisco’s very own Millionaire’s Row recalls the city’s faded Victorian-era glory with grand manors, leafy parks, and elegant restaurants.

Live among San Francisco’s old money in Pacific Heights, the heartland of the city’s well-heeled. Whether you’re scoping out an exclusive hotel or simply ogling at the wedding-cake architecture, this pretty hilltop postcode is sure to leave you speechless. Experience Pacific Heights’ old-world elegance and architectural splendor on a walking tour, or just kick back in one of the neighborhood’s tree-lined parks and dream up your golden ticket to Millionaire’s Row.

Pacific Heights’ jaw-dropping homes are easily the neighborhood’s biggest draw. Step inside the Haas-Lilienthal House to experience a time capsule from the Victorian era, complete with period furnishings and artwork. On Pacific Avenue, check out the 19th-century beauties that weathered the 1906 earthquake. Pacific Heights’ architectural showreel also includes Edwardian manors, Châteauesque lodges and neoclassical villas, such as Spreckels Mansion.

Found your dream home? Well, don’t go calling your real estate agent to inquire about an inspection just yet – many of these manors are no longer used as residences. Some have been converted into offices or consulates, including those for Germany, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Russia, and Vietnam. Another thing: these buildings are mighty pricey. Between Divisadero and Lyon streets on Broadway, you’ll find a little neighborhood known as Billionaire’s Row. San Francisco’s ultra-rich have got their digs here, including entrepreneur Larry Ellison and director George Lucas.

In Pacific Heights, the views also look a million bucks. Look out across the city from the top of Lyon Street or the benches in Alta Plaza Park. Lafayette Park is perfect for a picnic and watching well-groomed pooches strut by. For dining and shopping, make a beeline for Fillmore Street. Don’t worry, it’s not all luxury labels and fine dining around here – you can find one-of-a-kind boutiques and laid-back cafés, too.