Parklets are a hybrid between a public park and a parking space — an urban answer to underutilized space and the need to sit and enjoy our beautiful city. Still confused? Imagine putting a small public park in the spot a parking space, adjacent to the sidewalk. Parklets are often sponsored and located in front of restaurants or businesses, but are not to be confused with regular old outdoor seating — since they are technically public property where anyone can sit, not just customers.
Permanent parklets have been popping up all over San Francisco since 2010, though it was in 2005 that parklet design was revolutionized by the work of design firm Rebar. Now San Francisco’s Pavement to Parks Program, a collaborative effort between multiple city agencies, is working to positively convert asphalt into parklets all over the city.
So where are the city’s best and worst parklets? Well, since we are talking about un-paving paradise, there is no such thing as a “worst” parklet. Here is a small sample of my favorite sidewalk slices of heaven in SF.
#1. 432 Columbus Avenue, North Beach
Just outside of Caffe Greco in North Beach is one of the first parklets in the city. It has a charming European quality that makes it a nice spot to sit and people-watch while you sip your cup of coffee.
2) 200 Columbus Street, North Beach
Modern and sleek just like its café host, the parklet outside Réveille Coffee Co. set the standard for building parklets on steeper slopes.
3) 3600 16th Street, the Castro
Bright lights and bright umbrellas are this iron-fenced parklet’s claim to fame.
4) “Deepistan” Parklet, 937 Valencia Street, the Mission
Although many a parklet dots Valencia Street, this one is the only one home to a Triceratops made of plants. This privately hosted public parklet has also hosted plays, parties and even the owner’s wedding.
5) 2198 Filbert Street, the Marina
This creative parklet has a controversial history regarding its design; luckily, it’s all sorted now, and pedestrians can relax in the vintage van in peace.
6) 2001 Polk Street, Nob Hill
Yes, please, to Cheese Plus’s wood-paneled, plant-tiered parklet.
7) The Luna Rienne gallery parklet, 3318 22nd Street, the Mission
Anyone looking for a creative out-let in the park-let? The Luna Rienne Gallery parklet hosts rotating exhibits from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily.
8) 1315 18th Street, Potrero Hill
Potrero Hill’s only parklet, hosted by Farley’s, is a premier spot for relaxing and reading. Pop in at the right time, and you might catch a musical performance or a puppet show.
9) 3982 and 3868 24th Street, Noe Valley
No visit to Noe Valley would be complete without stopping by the kid-friendly parklet with the smart red chairs (or its sister parklet just down the street).
10) 4001 Judah Street, Outer Sunset
Shipwrecked shabby chic is the feel of this parklet, made from reclaimed wood and local shrubbery. And it’s in close proximity to the beach.
There are tons of parklets to pick from in SF—did we miss your favorite? Add it in the comments below, preferably with a picture.
