I think that sometimes the creativity of a city can be hidden in the corners of it, so let me tell you, the 16th Avenue Tiled Steps and Hidden Garden Steps are amazing gems in San Francisco, California to find. These visual masterpieces were literally created from the actual people living in the neighborhoods of Golden Gate Heights.

The 16th Avenue Tiled Steps have 163 steps, and their location is on Moraga Street between the 15th and 16th Avenue in San Francisco. You will want to note that these steps are located in a residential area, so public transportation is highly encouraged to visit them. The current visiting hours for this location is Monday through Friday 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Since this is in a neighborhood, to respect the residents, it is crucial to keep the area clean, and visit at a low noise level. The Hidden Garden Steps are located on the 16th Avenue between Kirkham and Lawton Streets. 

The 16th Avenue Tiled Steps project began in 2003 from residents Alice Yee Xavier and Jessie Audette when they wanted to build connection with others in their neighborhood through this artistic adventure. The community chose to bring in artists Colette Crutcher and Aileen Barr in the collaboration effort to create the mosaic panels. The concept behind these gorgeous stairs was to create a flowing view of the ocean to the stars on the 163 stairway. There was not a detail left unturned, and from the sea shells to the rays of the golden sun, it was almost like seeing this detailed picture book come to life!

Another really unique community public art project is the Hidden Garden Steps. You literally get to walk next to beautiful gardens right by the mosaic stairs that have these amazing flower and earthy designs. This volunteer art project was created to shine light to nature and personality of the neighborhood itself. The gardens created next to the steps are home to native California plants and also succulents since they do really well in the Bay Area climate. I loved how they really focused on the small details, there is even a mosaic butterfly!

If you have the opportunity to visit these community art pieces, I would recommend it! I will leave the direct links here from their organizations too, in case if you are looking for travel directions or more information about the mosaics themselves. Remember to click that subscribe button and have a wonderful day!

If you are traveling to California and are an outdoor adventurer, I highly recommend the book “California Hiking.” This spectacular guide reviews a large variety of hikes, and how to navigate them as well.

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http://hiddengardensteps.org/

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NortheastAllie

For generations, my family has lived in the Philadelphia area, and my writing reflects these influences. This blog explores perspectives on life, encouragement, travel, health, and local living.

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