Jan 20 2009
The Cliff House
The original Cliff House in San Francisco was built in 1863. It was bought by Adolph Sutro in 1881 when he had the railroad running from downtown San Francisco to the Western edge of the city bringing patrons to the the Cliff House. In 1894 on Christmas day it was destroyed by fire. Sutro spent fifty thousand dollars to have it rebuilt in reminiscent of a Chateau in France. It was eight stories high and hosted art galleries, dining areas, various kitchens and entertainment venues. Although it survived the deadly 1906 earthquake it was again destroyed by another fire in 1907. The third Cliff house after being destroyed by two fires was rebuilt by Emma Sutro, daughter of Adolph in 1909. From then on it has gone through many a renovation and now is pictured above as seen from Sutro Heights Park.
Standing high above the cliffs at Ocean Beach it is the main focal point by Seal Rock and Sutro Heights. It boasts three separate dining areas with stunning views. The views from the dining areas are breathtaking, especially at sunset. During the day just watching the waves crash upon the rocks is a sight to behold. It’s just simply beautiful.
There is also a gift shop attached to the building which offers anything and everything San Francisco.
The Cliff House holds a rich history and is a landmark in San Francisco. It’s gone through many changes and hardships and keeps getting better and better in it’s look, feel and venue.
This is one of my favorite spots to take photos and video. For more information including the restaurants and menus you can visit The Cliff House website.
Great pictures! I really like the way there’s just a hint of the sunset behind the Cliff House sign.
I love that whole area. I miss the room full of old carnival machines that used to be below the Cliff House, though. (Oh, I just looked it up on the ‘net — it’s at Pier 45 now. I didn’t know that! I thought they had just put all the stuff in storage somewhere.)
That looks wonderful
msterri - yeah those pink skies at sunset are gorgeous. The Musee’ Mechanique is at pier 45. I have a post about it somewhere on this blog.
dania - Thank you.
Beautiful city, and great photos..
Simply gorgeous. Yet another place to add to my “must see” list.
icybc - thanks so much.
nipsy - I have a must see list too that’s in book form now