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    Camera Obscura

    4.1 (76 reviews)
    Open 11:00 am - 5:00 pm

    Camera Obscura Photos

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    Montage of images from Camera Obscura
    Ed U.

    I believe it's the last remnant of the fabled Playland-at-the-Beach amusement park on Ocean Beach. After all, it's not every day you see a shack that looks like a big camera...unless presumably you're one of the devoted joggers who live in the neighborhood. Not me. I hardly ever get out to the Cliff House nowadays since it's been closed for a while, but some nostalgia magnet must've pulled me in because I forked over my three bucks (yes, it's $3 now) and entered the dark room. Through what's basically a pinhole through the roof, the curved moving panorama is an oddly endearing treat as it provides a rotating 360-degree view outside the shack. It takes six minutes to go through a full revolution, but I frankly didn't make it that long despite the lure of holographic images of the planet Saturn and the Starship Enterprise on the wall. I wasn't sure what the holographs had to do with the view, but hey, I got my three bucks worth of entertainment. RELATED - Looking for a San Francisco landmark? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: https://bit.ly/2FrlWQl

    2/2022
    Jean L.

    The historical aspect of Camera Obscrua is pretty neat and the science behind the camera is definitely food for thought. However, I wasn't really "wowed" during my visit this past Saturday. Upon entering the tiny room of about 50 square feet, there's a camera in the middle that consistently rotates to get live shots of the surrounding, mostly ocean views. $3 per person to enter (I believe it's cash only). The holograms on the walls were sort of neat because you get to see different images depending on how you turn your head. The guy at the booth didn't check for vaccination proof or anything along those lines. He did provide a fun fact that upon exiting, there's a photo of 2 little boys standing at the pier. Those brothers are now the owners of Camera Obscura and the pier was at Ocean Beach in the 1960s. I'm trying to figure out if the elder gentleman at the booth is one of the brothers, I should've asked. Oh well. Overall, this is a one-and-done type of place that you can consider visiting if you're in the area, but no need to go out of your way. #4/2022

    View South of the Camera with the Seal Rocks on the right
    Joseph A.

    There has been a Camera Obscura in SF since at least the 1860's, with the current one residing on the Cliffs North of Ocean Beach. It's actually pretty cool as it uses a 150 inch ( 381 CM ) Rotating Lens to project a 360 degree view from the building. The exterior was updated in 1957, but the interior is the original of this rendition built in 1946, that replaced the once destroyed in a 1907 fire. I have visited the Camera several times, and it's pretty cool if you are in the area, Btw, I took some images this afternoon as a storm was approaching, and cargo ships were moving in and out of the SF Bay,

    Laraine E.

    Over 20 years ago I used to live here in San Francisco and never once came to the beach. I decided to look up unique things in San Francisco and found this so I came which was great but I didn't have cash to enter the facility which was sucky, but overall got some cool photos

    Sandeep R.

    The Camera Obscura is a large-scale camera in the Lands End area of the Outer Richmond District in western San Francisco, California. It is located near the Cliff House restaurant, perched on the headlands on the cliffs just north of Ocean Beach. I'd heard a lot about this place and decided to visit it sometime through the pandemic. Unfortunately, this was shut down but seems to have opened up now. Nonetheless, it provides great sunset views of the beach. It's worth noting that you'll have to park in the Land's End parking area and walk towards this place.

    Reed B.

    Sometimes you find one of those out of the way, stuck in time tourist attractions that is totally worth it. This is literally a "camera obscura" which is an optical device that is essentially the grandfather of modern camera. It's fascinating and mesmerizing to watch, especially on a clear day. It's a few bucks to get in (cash only) and mildly dark and creepy inside although perfectly clean and safe. Don't forget to check out the late 80s framed holograms on the wall - makes it even more awesome.

    A rainy, windy, cold day. ..
    Nadine C.

    This is a really cool landmark in San Francisco, behind the Cliffhouse Restaurant. It's the oldest camera in the world! It's too bad that it was a rainy, cold, windy, and overcast day when we visited. Hopefully, on our next visit, it will be a sunny and clear day. Note: parking is free and admission is only $3 for beautiful views of the ocean and beach!.

    Dee L.

    I've lived here my whole life and have eaten at the Cliff House restaurant, but have never been inside this tiny little spot located behind the restaurant. Im glad we decided to pay the $3 to pop in to see what it was all about (cash only but they have at ATM inside restaurant). The camera is built off of a 500 year old Leonardo da Vinci design that used mirrors to project images. The mirrors rotate around and reflect down to a huge round drum covered in cloth. On a clear day the image is perfect, we got lucky. It is a very old small building and gets very dark inside so watch your step. The attendant will go in a give you some history. Beautiful area and views. You can see the old Sutro Bath houses from the deck to the right. You can see the entirety of Ocean beach to the left of this place.

    Joan W.

    Camera Obscura is situated in the cutest little camera house right next to the ocean. According to it's website: "The camera obscura is a rare device,based on a 15th century design by Leonardo da Vinci.It produces 360 degrees of spectacular Live Images of the Seal Rock Area". Inside is very dark and quiet with only the sounds of the ocean. In the center lies a projection of a slow rotating view of the ocean and beach outside. Hologram photos adorn the walls. I'd say you'd need 5-10 minutes max there. I think Camera Obscura is a great place to check out after eating at the Cliff House or hiking around the Suetro Baths/Land's End trail though I would say it's not really a destination in itself unless one is into early century photography.

    Alex M.

    Just below the Cliff House on a gorgeous promontory, sits the Giant Camera. You pay 3 dollars to see this incredible machine- and once you enter, you'll see the large disc of the projection of the picture inside the darkened room. It was really striking to watch the image move around- especially as the camera approached the water lit by the sun. I can't see myself going here over and over- but it is really fun to see it once.

    Edwina D.

    A flashback to simpler times when a 360 degree camera wasn't in everyone's pocket, come visit Camera Obscura for a views of Ocean Beach and Lands End. For $3 you can pop in for as long as you'd like and see the camera at work. The view from the camera is like a painted picture and moves a slower pace, making for a unique experience. There aren't many Camera Obscuras left and this one is a relic from the former Playland site of yesteryear. I visit every time I am in the area for a dose of nostalgia and ocean views from a different perspective. Check it out at least once!

    This white canvas is amazing!
    Alex T.

    At first i was like where the heck is this place at. When i got there i was like oh i been here before. so where have i been was the cliff house sutra bistro for brunch 2 yrs ago for my bday. i knew there was an observation deck but didn't know that was this place so yea its behind the restaurant. when i got here i was like theres a stairway to walk down and then a nice balcony with a view of the seagull rocks and what i mean by the rocks is, the rocks are filled with bird dodo and the rock is almost all white lol. i do remember when i was here 2 yrs ago having brunch and saw a surfer got stuck on the seagull rocks and needed help and helicopter came to rescue. it was amazing how i witnessed all that and i was like i wish i knew about this place because it would have been cool to witness on this special lens from this place. let me tell you they do have a little building with a camera imaging the area around and projected on the white ceramic palet its amazing i don't know how to tell you but its was crisp clear because yesterday on 4 16 15 it was an amazing clear day. so this piece of art projecting real life scene was discovered by Leonardo. i mean they only charge 3 bucks for the fee of entering the room and looking at the amazing art was totally worth every penny. i suggest you to go try it if you haven't try it before but make sure its a clear warm beautiful sunny cali weather to really enjoy it. you will see when you go. Anyways i am a fan and will be back when I'm the tour guide to my family members. hope you enjoy this review and thanks for your time. have a nice day and happy yelping. remember to vote useful or funny or cool if you like it thanks yelper!

    Jennifer B.

    On a sunny (or partially sunny) day, this is a real visual treat. Don't go if you're put off by externalities -- the shack is a shack, the holographs are only visible by people who are 5'6' or taller, the whole place is held together by baling wire -- just go to stand inside and watch the surf. We had just been at the Venetian Masters exhibit at the de Young, so were very keyed into the interplay of light, and watching the surf roll in was mesmerizing. It is, if you can believe it, so much prettier than outside ... can't quite describe. Definitely call ahead. $3 admission, $2 for kids 12 and under.

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    Review Highlights - Camera Obscura

    We were unfortunately there after the giant camera was closed, but the breathtaking view was well worth the walk up.

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    Japantown - Cherry Blossom Festival vendor

    Japantown

    4.2(547 reviews)
    4.5 miLower Pacific Heights, Japantown

    Came to San Francisco during Super Bowl week and had the chance to explore Japantown and Lower…read morePacific Heights again, and it honestly reminded me why I love this city so much. After being in Washington, D.C., where it was much colder, the warm SF weather felt amazing and made walking around the neighborhood even better. The food was incredible! We tried several different restaurants, and every place had something special, from comforting ramen to fresh sushi. Japantown has such a great mix of authentic flavors, cozy spots, and unique little shops that make the whole experience feel lively and welcoming. Being back in San Francisco, enjoying great food, good weather, and the energy of Super Bowl week, was just an all-around great feeling. I truly believe this is one of the best Japantowns in the country, and I can't wait to come back and explore even more.

    Japantown has always been a go to spot for us when we miss Japan, of course there is no comparison,…read morebut Nijiya Market has always been a good spot for Bento boxes, sushi, Sashimi, anything you want- quality has always been good, and if you get there later before closing, they discount some of the items. It's located on Post and Buchanan, street parking if you can find it but they have a parking garage underneath the shops and restaurants. They have so many good spots for Sushi, Ramen, Sophie's Crepes is another fav, Boba, you won't be disappointed! We will be back!

    Photos
    Japantown - The last of the cherry blossoms

    The last of the cherry blossoms

    Japantown - 12/28/25 FYI. Food & drink options.

    12/28/25 FYI. Food & drink options.

    Japantown - Godzilla

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    Godzilla

    Palace Of Fine Arts - At Sunset

    Palace Of Fine Arts

    4.7(1.2k reviews)
    3.9 miMarina/Cow Hollow

    One of my favorite stops whenever I'm in San Francisco. The Palace of the Fine Arts is an…read moreincredible visit - beautiful and peaceful. I've visited here both during the day and at night and each one will provide you with its own unique experience. During the day, you'll be able to take in all the surrounding nature - its lake, the birds and the ducks, grassy areas. You can also take in all the intricate architecture of the Palace. Can definitely get busy and loud during the day, but it's still so nice to walk around and enjoy. At night, you're going to lose the majority of the people. Last time we were there after dark, there were only a dozen other people wandering around. You won't really be able to see the nature, but the Palace has areas lit up with lights that give it a different beauty you won't see during the day. Free to enter and enjoy. We've always walked here, so I can't touch on the parking situation, but it doesn't look like the best just from glancing around. As I said, one of my favorite stops in SF, and I look forward to visiting it on each trip.

    One last adventure on our trip was a stop by the Palace of Fine Arts. I've see pictures and clips…read moreof it in movies for many years, and have always been kind fascinated by it. Unfortunately our visit was so jam packed with everything else, we were only able to get there at night...which wasn't terrible. It is well lit and still very impressive. The structure was originally built for the world's fair about 100 years ago, but because of the response they actually rebuilt it after, with more long term/long lasting material. It's held up very well, and is spectacular to see. It really makes you feel like you're in an ancient European city. There is another building next to the famous structure that is used as a convention hall, and gallery space. It was closed and locked up when we were there. All in all, it was a cool stop on our trip. I definitely enjoyed seeing it in person, and maybe next time we visit San Francisco, I'll be able to see it in daylight

    Photos
    Palace Of Fine Arts - Evening view

    Evening view

    Palace Of Fine Arts - 06.15.25 the domed rotunda is an open-air octagon supported by eight piers, triangular in plan, that frame arched openings

    06.15.25 the domed rotunda is an open-air octagon supported by eight piers, triangular in plan, that frame arched openings

    Palace Of Fine Arts

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    Cottage Row - Sweet smelling vines

    Cottage Row

    4.1(12 reviews)
    4.5 miLower Pacific Heights, Japantown

    A quiet, cozy, off the beaten path, mini park with lovely flowers and trees in between busy areas…read more Recommend, especially if you can find parking.

    Big things comes in small packages…read more There are several mini parks in almost every neighborhood in San Francisco, and Cottage Row is a historic district (#82000983) located in Japantown that stretches along the block of Bush and Sutter streets and flanked between Webster and Fillmore streets. I would often walk to my wife's work as part of my exercise after work. I'd start from New Montgomery & Market Street all the way to Pacific Heights, which is roughly about 3 1/2 miles or so depending on the route I take. I vary my route some days and have taken different streets that are more hilly depending how I feel that particular day. On one of my many routes, I discovered this gem of a place just a block from Japantown Center. From Sutter St., there are signs posted regarding the park in front of a brick steps and pathway that stretches one block ending on Bush St. Along the path are Victorian-era houses, which adds a unique charm to the park. The park itself is well manicured with beautiful flowers, plants and even lone Redwood tree standing tall and proudly in the center. It may be small, but this mini park actually feels very spacious due to the layout and brilliant design of the park. It definitely maximizes the space without feeling cluttered and it feels very relaxing just being here. The smell of flowers and different plants provides an illusion that you are in a forest garden. I can feel my stress levels diminish as I soak in the energy of the park. Doing some research, the brick pathway along the backside of the park used to be called Japan Street due to the families living there were primarily Japanese-Americans. Sadly, they were interned during WWII after the attack on Pearl Harbor. An unfortunate time in American history that must never be forgotten and repeated. Now the park is maintained by the city, and they do a wonderful job of doing so. I can imagine the people in the neighborhood utilize this space by sitting on the benches while reading a good book; playing with their kids or grandkids; walking and playing with their dogs or enjoying a casual stroll to get some sun. Either way, it's a charming little park that is worth a visit should you be in the area.

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    Cottage Row
    Cottage Row
    Cottage Row

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    49 Mile Scenic Drive - Fremont Hotel

    49 Mile Scenic Drive

    3.7(25 reviews)
    5.1 miCivic Center, Hayes Valley

    The 49 Mile Scenic Drive was created in 1938 in order to showcase the highlights of the City of San…read moreFrancisco. for the 1939 Golden Gate Exposition. It was already a convoluted route which originally began at city Hall and ended on Treasure Island. Since 1939 the route has been altered somewhat but still remains convoluted and today plagued with traffic problems and poor maintenance of signage. Specifically, the Seagull in profile with a blue background signs have been badly faded and not all are clearly visible. You will need to use the internet to get a clear description of the route. Some of the major sites along the route are City Hall, Asian Art Museum, Little Saigon, Japan Town, Union Square, China Town, Telegraph Hill, Lombard Street, Coit tower, Fishermen's Wharf, Palace of fine Arts, Golden Gate Bridge, Lake Merced, California Academy of the Sciences, Haight-Ashbury, Twin Peaks The Castro and Oracle Park. Parking at these various sites runs the range of easy to very difficult. Metered street parking is available at some locations. Due to the numerous hassles involved in trying to run the route most tourists opt for city transportation or the Hop-On, Hop-Off bus. "If you are going to San Francisco, be sure to wear some flowers in your hair..."

    This is a great idea but in the day and age we are in now I wish they already had a google map link…read morefor this drive. As most of the reviews mentioned the signs are missing so I had to follow a map on SF website and my friend would navigate me which is great if you're traveling with people. A lot of the places we already hit due to our own itinerary but some of the places on the drive I never saw when doing research about the city so this was great anyways!

    Photos
    49 Mile Scenic Drive
    49 Mile Scenic Drive
    49 Mile Scenic Drive

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    Dragon's Gate - Dragon's Gate to Chinatown

    Dragon's Gate

    4.3(144 reviews)
    6.0 miChinatown, Union Square

    Dragon Gate has been part of my San Francisco story for as long as I can remember. I first saw it…read morein the mid-1970s during a visit with my parents, and it made an immediate impression on me. I still remember taking photos of it with a brand-new camera my father had just given me, not realizing at the time that it had only been completed a few years earlier, in 1970. Over time, I've come to appreciate more of its details and background. The gate was a gift from Taiwan and built in a traditional Chinese architectural style, complete with guardian lions, decorative tiles, and inscriptions symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. It marks the formal entrance to Chinatown at Grant Avenue and Bush Street, and it's a natural stopping point for visitors before heading further into the neighborhood. Nearly twenty years after that first visit, I moved to San Francisco and have been here ever since. These days, walking past the Dragon Gate feels more personal. It's less of a tourist attraction for me and more of a familiar landmark, one that quietly welcomes people into a neighborhood full of history, culture, and character.

    I've walked under the Dragon's Gate more times than I can count but I still love that moment when…read moreyou're walking up and you finally see it and suddenly you know you're in Chinatown. It sits at the edge of Grant Ave and it is a literal gateway into Chinatown. As soon as you walk past it, you are under the beautiful green tiled roofs curling along the streets with stone lions in this ornate, colorful and instantly recognizable neighborhood. The gate was a gift from Taiwan in the 1970s and every time you see it it feels special and different. It's not the largest or most beautiful gate I've seen, but I think it holds a special place for me because it's so familiar. It can look different depending on whether you visit on a bright sunny morning, or a foggy afternoon, or whether you see it under the glowing lanterns of a San Francisco night but to me it always feels familiar. No matter how many times I've been to Chinatown, I always stop here for a second before heading in. I have to take a moment to pay homage to this little spot that marks the entrance of one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in the city.

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    Dragon's Gate
    Dragon's Gate
    Dragon's Gate

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    Lyon Street Steps - Night view

    Lyon Street Steps

    4.8(357 reviews)
    3.9 miMarina/Cow Hollow, Pacific Heights, Presidio

    The Lyon Street steps connect Cow Hollow to Pacific Heights as well as the Presidio's Broadway…read moreGate. The steps have a series of steep steps, terrace trimmed hedges, bay views, and a Hearts in San Francisco sculpture. My nighttime stroll was pretty lowlight and I think this space is better suited for a daytime climb.

    One of my absolute favorite SF spots to score a solid workout, spectacular views and breathe in a…read morefresh bay breeze. As part of a boot camp program in 2008, I really got acquainted with the steps, from an athletic perspective. For many years following, I'd incorporate them into my city workouts. After I moved to the SF peninsula in late 2010 and became an experienced trail runner, sometimes I'd carve out time to visit the city to run during the week, zipping up after rush hour traffic, of course. To access them for training or touristy purposes, there is plenty of street parking available nearby. Keep in mind, you may need to add a "half mile" hike/run to get to the steps, but it's worth it and why not? Exercise is so good for mind-body-soul connection. Afterwards, head over to Pac Heights for some grub or pack a picnic and saunter over to Chrissy field. So many options. There is also a few cute cafes tucked away towards the bottom of the steps on nearby streets. Initially it was such an intimidating climb up the stairs, but they became so much easier the fitter I got... and are nothing compared to the nearby Mill Valley Dipsea stairs! {On that note, If you're looking for an extra challenging stair workout, packed with nature and adventure, head up north and check those out.}

    Photos
    Lyon Street Steps - Terrace trimmed hedges

    Terrace trimmed hedges

    Lyon Street Steps - View from the top of Lyon Street stairs

    View from the top of Lyon Street stairs

    Lyon Street Steps

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    Camera Obscura - landmarks - Updated May 2026

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