Seward Street Slides | Concrete Slides in San Francisco
Go Explore Outside contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, or links from other companies, I may receive compensation – at no extra cost to you. See my Privacy Policy and Disclaimer for more information.
If you are looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in San Francisco, look no further than the Seward Street Slides!
Tucked away in the hills of the Castro neighborhood, these free outdoor cement slides provide a thrilling and unique experience that will have you feeling like a kid again. I promise.
Whether you’re a San Francisco local or a first-time visitor, exploring this hidden gem is a must-do activity.
All you need is a piece of cardboard and the willingness for adventure. The twists and turns at the Seward Street mini park make for an unforgettable adventure in the city.
History of the Seward Street Slides
The Seward Street Slides have a unique history that dates back to the 1970s.
The site was originally a steep hillside that had become overgrown with weeds and debris. A group of local residents saw the potential of the hillside and decided to transform it into a park of some sort.
A design competition was started, and a local teenage girl, Kim Clark, won! Clark, who lived on Seward Street and attended Alvarado School, drew inspiration from a slide at the now-defunct Playland Amusement Park in Ocean Beach.
Her winning design created the iconic curved double cement slides. This hidden gem of San Francisco opened in 1973, and remains as a must-visit spot for tourists and locals alike.
Over the years, the slides have undergone various renovations and improvements, including the addition of a staircase and retaining wall.
Today, the outdoor slides for adults, and kids, remain a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a fun and free way to enjoy the great outdoors in San Francisco.
Where are the Seward Street Slides?
The Seward Street Slides in San Francisco are located in the Castro neighborhood, specifically on Seward Street between Douglass Street and 19th Street.
The Castro neighborhood is home to many historic landmarks, including the Castro Theatre, which has been a centerpiece of the community since it opened in 1922.
The area also has great restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops, many of which are owned and operated by members of the LGBTQ+ community.
How do I get to the Seward Street Slides?
You can take public transportation, including the MUNI or the historic F-Market & Wharves streetcar, to the Castro neighborhood. The F Line’s vintage streetcars add to the fun!
The Seward Street Slides are a short, uphill walk from the Castro Street Station.
How do the Concrete Seward Street Slides work?
The slides are not your typical playground slides.
Riders sit on a piece of cardboard, and with a push, they slide down the cement slope, reaching speeds of up to 30 miles per hour.
If there are any bits of dirt on the slide, you will often go down faster. Not that I’m advising that, just sharing some insider info.
The slides provide an adrenaline rush when you shoot out the end of the chute on those extra fast days.
Who can slide down the Seward Street Slides?
The slides are open to the public, and while excellent outdoor slides for adults, the Seward St cement slides can be enjoyed by both children and adults.
However, visitors should note that the slides are not recommended for very young children or those with health issues.
Riders should also wear durable pants and avoid wearing shorts, as the concrete slides can cause friction burns.
I have witnessed a few folks losing the rear of their pants, from not being clothed properly. So unless you want to bare yourself to the city, put on some solid pants!
What should visitors bring to the Seward Mini Park?
Visitors should bring their own cardboard to slide on.
Cardboard can be found at pretty much any grocery store, just ask the employees that stock the shelves.
Many people leave their cardboard behind, no pun intended, but you can’t always count it. If you are lucky to have extra pieces lying around, try a few different ones. For whatever reason, some are much faster than others.
And don’t forget to charge your phone beforehand! It is so much fun, you will be unable to refrain from taking videos and photos.
Is there a fee to slide down the Seward Street Slides?
No, sliding down the Seward Street Slides is completely free of charge.
What are the hours of operation for the Seward Street Slides?
The slides are open Tuesday – Sunday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, but visitors should note that the concrete slides may be closed during inclement weather or for maintenance.
What should visitors know before sliding down the Seward Mini Park?
Visitors should note that the slides can be steep and may be intimidating for some riders.
It is recommended to watch a few others slide down first, before your first attempt. This will either prepare you on how to remain safe, or give you pointers on how to win if you make a racing wager with a friend.
Visitors should also be aware that the area around the slides is not very large and can become crowded, so just remember to be mindful of others.
NOTE: Be respectful to the neighbors that live next to the slide. Follow the rules, don’t be overly loud, and behave like you would want if you lived next to public slides.
Are there any safety guidelines for sliding down the Seward Street Slides?
Riders should sit on the cardboard with their feet first and avoid lying down on their stomach or back.
Be sure to keep your hands inside the cardboard and avoid using their hands to slow down or stop. You don’t want any slide burns.
What else is there to do in the Castro neighborhood?
The Castro is known for its lively and inclusive atmosphere, and is a hub of LGBTQ+ activism and culture.
As mentioned above, The Castro Theater is known for its classic marquee, ornate interior, and diverse films. They often screen classic and indie films, as well as host special events and festivals.
The Harvey Milk Plaza is named after the pioneering LGBTQ+ activist and San Francisco City Supervisor who was assassinated in 1978. The plaza features a mural of Milk and a statue in his honor, as well as a memorial wall for other LGBTQ+ activists who have passed away.
And a must-do at least once, is to attend the annual Castro Street Fair and SF Pride Parade. The parade is usually in June, drawing large crowds and celebrating the diversity and history of the neighborhood.
Secret San Francisco: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure
Secret San Francisco: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure is an essential read for those seeking to make the most of their time in the beautiful city, whether they’re residents or visitors, and are interested in exploring its quirky history
Before You Go …
If you are looking for another hidden gem in San Francisco, be sure to check out the Hidden Garden Steps.
Related Articles
Brigadoon Park | Cement Slides in San Jose CA
Codornices Park | Berkeley Waterfall, Cement Slide, and moreÂ
