Movie and TV Magic: Exploring 10 of San Francisco’s Famous Movie and TV Show Houses

San Francisco isn’t just famous for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge and historic cable cars — it’s also home to some of the most recognizable houses from movies and TV shows. From Painted Ladies-style Victorians to Pacific Heights mansions, these spots are pure “wait… I’ve seen that!” magic. Below is a movie-and-TV-lover’s guide to 10 famous SF homes you can see in real life (plus a few fun facts to drop on your travel buddies).

Quick note: These are private residences or real buildings, so visiting is all about respectful, exterior viewing. Think: quick photos, a little “reel life” moment, and then on to the next neighborhood.

Quick Overview: 10 Famous Movie & TV Houses in San Francisco

If you want the highlights at a glance, this list is your “grab-and-go” route. (Details + fun facts are below.)

• Full House House – 1709 Broderick St (real house; opening credits = Painted Ladies)
• Mrs. Doubtfire House – 2640 Steiner St (Robin Williams fans know this one)
• Princess Diaries Firehouse – 724 Brazil Ave (Mia’s “firehouse home”)
• Pacific Heights House (film) – 2590 Green St (thriller setting + classic SF architecture)
• Blue Jasmine Apartment – 305 S Van Ness Ave (Cate Blanchett’s Oscar-winning role)
• Vertigo Apartment – 900 Lombard St (Hitchcock + near “crooked” Lombard)
• Party of Five House – 2311 Broadway St (Pacific Heights Victorian drama home)
• Doctor Dolittle House – 1524 Jones St (Nob Hill area exterior)
• Basic Instinct House – 2930 Vallejo St (Pacific Heights mansion vibes)
• A View to a Kill Mansion – 3650 Jackson St (Bond-era elegance)

If you’re curious how these famous movie and TV houses fit into the bigger picture, don’t miss our in-depth guide to Famous San Francisco Homes – A Celebrity and Movie Plus TV Tour by Neighborhood. It goes beyond individual houses and organizes famous homes and filming locations by neighborhood, with scene notes, maps, and real-world tips for visiting places like Alamo Square, Pacific Heights, Russian Hill, and more. It’s the perfect next read if you want to turn movie trivia into a well-planned sightseeing route.

1. The “Full House” House

Address: 1709 Broderick Street

Why it’s famous: This is the real-life exterior associated with the Tanner family home from Full House and Fuller House.

Neighborhood: Near the Haight / Alamo Square area (easy to pair with Painted Ladies views).

Visitor takeaway: This is one of those spots that’s iconic in photos but surprisingly easy to miss unless you already know where you’re going — especially if you’re bouncing between neighborhoods.

Fun Facts:

• Opening credits myth: The famous Painted Ladies shown in the opening credits are at Alamo Square — not this house. This address became linked to the show later through fan culture.
• Creator-owned home: The house was purchased by Full House creator Jeff Franklin in 2016, briefly turning it into a pop-culture lightning rod.
• Neighborhood mismatch: On TV, the family’s lifestyle feels suburban — but the real location sits in a dense, walkable SF neighborhood.
• One of SF’s most photographed TV homes: Despite never appearing directly in the show, it’s now a must-see stop for fans.

Opening credits twist: The famous “Full House houses” you see in the intro are actually the Painted Ladies at Alamo Square, not this address.

Fan frenzy: The house was purchased by the show’s creator, Jeff Franklin, in 2016. He floated ideas for a tribute, but it sparked local pushback.

2. Mrs. Doubtfire’s House

Address: 2640 Steiner Street

Why it’s famous: The exterior used as the Hillard family home in Mrs. Doubtfire.

Neighborhood: Pacific Heights / near the north end of the city’s “classic mansion zone.”

Visitor takeaway: You can’t go inside, but standing out front is instant movie déjà vu — and the surrounding streets are peak “storybook SF.”

Fun Facts:

• Real fan memorial: After Robin Williams’ death in 2014, fans left flowers, notes, and costumes outside — one of SF’s most organic pop-culture memorials.
• Exterior only: All recognizable scenes tied to this home were filmed outside; interior scenes were shot elsewhere.
• Pacific Heights setting: The location reinforces the film’s theme of family tension within a “perfect” exterior.
• Still a fan favorite: This remains one of the most emotionally resonant filming locations in the city.

Real-life nanny drama: In a strange twist, a real-life owner once employed a nanny who ended up in a legal conflict that felt oddly reminiscent of the movie’s storyline.

3. The “Princess Diaries” Firehouse

Address: 724 Brazil Avenue

Why it’s famous: The converted firehouse used as Mia Thermopolis’s home in The Princess Diaries.

Neighborhood: Excelsior District — a little off the typical tourist loop (which makes it a fun “deep cut” filming location).

Visitor takeaway: This is a great example of why having a real route matters — it’s not near Fisherman’s Wharf or Downtown, but it’s super satisfying if you’re collecting filming spots.

Fun Facts:

• Former firehouse: Built in 1911, this was once an active San Francisco fire station before becoming a private residence.
• Neighborhood deep cut: Unlike most filming locations on this list, this one sits outside the traditional tourist core.
• Movie magic geography: The film blends locations across SF into a single “neighborhood,” making this spot feel closer to downtown than it really is.
• Fan pilgrimage site: Despite its location, it’s one of the most sought-out Princess Diaries filming spots.

Unique location: In the movie it’s part of Mia’s world, but in real life it’s rooted in the Excelsior — very much San Francisco, not Genovia.

4. The “Pacific Heights” House

Address: 2590 Green Street

Why it’s famous: A major setting in the 1990 thriller Pacific Heights, where the dream-home fantasy spirals into a nightmare.

Neighborhood: Pacific Heights (aka “if this neighborhood had a red carpet, it would still be too fancy”).

Visitor takeaway: Even if you haven’t seen the movie recently, this street is a masterclass in classic SF architecture — and a perfect “photo stop” neighborhood.

Fun Facts:

• Psychological thriller setting: The home’s elegance contrasts sharply with the film’s escalating tension.
• Location authenticity: Unlike many movies, Pacific Heights uses the real neighborhood to ground the story.
• Architecture as character: The home’s layout and façade visually reinforce the film’s themes of control and intrusion.The detailed woodwork and bay windows are part of why this kind of home reads so well on camera.
• Street-level realism: Many exterior shots remain instantly recognizable today.

Thrilling tales: The film starred Michael Keaton, Melanie Griffith, and Matthew Modine.

5. The “Blue Jasmine” Apartment

Address: 305 South Van Ness Avenue

Why it’s famous: Featured in Blue Jasmine, tied to Cate Blanchett’s Oscar-winning performance.

Neighborhood: Mission District area.

Visitor takeaway: This is a fun “filming location meets real neighborhood life” stop — especially if you’re already exploring the Mission for murals, food, and culture.

Fun Facts:

• Oscar recognition: Cate Blanchett won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role.
• Multiple SF neighborhoods: The film jumps between elite and everyday areas of the city, mirroring the character’s downfall.
• Real apartment building: This is a working residential building — not a set.The address sits in a lively part of the city where the everyday SF vibe is just as memorable as the movie reference.
• Modern SF snapshot: The location reflects San Francisco’s changing identity during the early 2010s.

6. The “Vertigo” Apartment

Address: 900 Lombard Street

Why it’s famous: Used as Judy Barton’s home in Alfred Hitchcock’s 1958 classic Vertigo.

Neighborhood: Russian Hill / Lombard area — one of the most “San Francisco-looking” parts of San Francisco.

Visitor takeaway: This one is extra satisfying because it pairs perfectly with nearby sightseeing — and yes, you’re close to the famously twisty Lombard Street blocks.

Fun Facts:

• Hitchcock landmark: Vertigo is considered one of the greatest films ever made.
• SF as psychological landscape: The city’s hills and staircases mirror the film’s emotional tension.
• Lombard Street proximity: This location sits near one of the most photographed streets in the world.Lombard Street is often called the “crookedest street in the world,” which adds a little extra cinematic flair to the stop.
• Film tourism classic: Vertigo inspired one of the earliest movie-location tours in San Francisco.

Hitchcock classic: Vertigo is basically a love letter (and a psychological spiral) set in San Francisco.

7. The “Party of Five” House

Address: 2311 Broadway Street

Why it’s famous: The Salinger family home exterior from the 90s TV drama Party of Five.

Neighborhood: Pacific Heights.

Visitor takeaway: The house is cool, but the bigger win is the neighborhood: big Victorians, wide streets, and those “how is this real life?” views.

Fun Facts:

• Long-running series: The show aired for six seasons and launched the careers of multiple cast members.
• Exterior storytelling: The home’s size visually reinforced the family’s sudden responsibility and independence.
• True Pacific Heights setting: Unlike many shows, this house genuinely matches its on-screen neighborhood.
• TV nostalgia stop: It remains one of the most recognizable 1990s TV homes in SF.

• TV drama: The show tackled serious themes and won a Golden Globe for Best Drama Series.

Architectural gem: This area is loaded with classic homes that make even a quick drive-through feel like a sightseeing moment.

8. The “Doctor Dolittle” House

Address: 1524 Jones Street

Why it’s famous: Featured in the 1998 comedy Dr. Dolittle, starring Eddie Murphy.

Neighborhood: Nob Hill area (easy to pair with classic SF views and historic architecture).

Visitor takeaway: This is a perfect “quick stop” filming location — especially if you’re already doing a Nob Hill / Russian Hill loop.

Fun Facts:

• Comedy contrast: The elegant exterior contrasts humorously with the animal chaos of the film.
• Exterior filming: The house appears mainly in establishing shots.
• Nob Hill context: The location adds a classic San Francisco backdrop to an otherwise fantastical story.
• Family-film favorite: This stop often surprises visitors who don’t expect the connection.

Tourist magnet: Between the architecture and the location, it’s a natural add-on when you’re exploring the hills.

9. The “Basic Instinct” House

Address: 2930 Vallejo Street

Why it’s famous: The mansion used as Catherine Tramell’s home in the 1992 thriller Basic Instinct.

Neighborhood: Pacific Heights.

Visitor takeaway: This is one of those “wow, SF real estate is a character in this movie” locations — the setting does a lot of storytelling all by itself.

Fun Facts:

• Iconic thriller: The film became a defining moment in early-1990s cinema.
• Real mansion: The house’s scale and isolation helped sell the mystery surrounding the character.
• Pacific Heights symbolism: Wealth, secrecy, and power are visually reinforced by the neighborhood.
• Still instantly recognizable: Even without context, the home feels cinematic.

Exclusive locale: Pacific Heights is known for dramatic homes and Bay views — even without the movie connection, it’s a scenic neighborhood.

10. The “A View to a Kill” Mansion

Address: 3650 Jackson Street

Why it’s famous: Featured in the 1985 James Bond film A View to a Kill, starring Roger Moore.

Neighborhood: Pacific Heights / Presidio edge area.

Visitor takeaway: This is peak “SF mansion fantasy,” and it hits extra hard if you’re doing a scenic drive with multiple elegant neighborhoods in one loop.

Fun Facts:

• James Bond legacy: This was Roger Moore’s final appearance as 007.
• San Francisco action: The film includes some of the franchise’s most famous SF sequences.
• Mansion casting: The home was chosen specifically for its dramatic scale and commanding presence.
• Classic Bond era: The location reflects the extravagant, high-gloss style of 1980s Bond films.

Bond’s lair: The mansion appears in key scenes, adding that classic Bond-era glamour.

Seeing San Francisco’s Famous Homes in Real Life

Here’s the fun (and slightly sneaky) truth about movie-and-TV house hunting in San Francisco: the locations are spread across multiple neighborhoods, and the city’s hills can make “it’s only a mile away” feel like a whole adventure. If you’re trying to see several in one day, it helps to think in loops — like pairing Pacific Heights with nearby scenic viewpoints, or combining Nob Hill + Russian Hill into one iconic hilltop circuit.

Pro tip: Most of these spots are best as quick, respectful photo stops. You’ll get the “I was here!” moment, then you’re off to the next location before it feels crowded or awkward.

FAQ: Visiting Famous Movie & TV Houses in San Francisco

Can you go inside these famous movie and TV houses?

In almost all cases, no. These are typically private homes (or real buildings) used for exterior shots. The best way to visit is to admire from the sidewalk, take a quick photo, and keep it respectful.

Are these houses all in one neighborhood?

Not even close — they’re spread across the city. Many cluster around Pacific Heights, but others are in the Excelsior, Mission, and hill neighborhoods like Nob Hill and Russian Hill.

Can you see all 10 in one day?

Yes, it’s doable, but it’s easiest if you plan a smart route (or visit in a couple of neighborhood-based loops). Traffic, hills, and parking can slow you down if you try to wing it.

What’s the best way to see these homes without feeling rushed?

Pick a “home base” neighborhood and build outward. A great approach is to focus on Pacific Heights for several stops, then add a hill loop (like Nob Hill/Russian Hill) or a Mission District add-on.

Are these spots good for photos?

Absolutely — but the best photos come from quick stops and good timing. Early morning usually has fewer people and cleaner sightlines.

What’s the most iconic stop for first-timers?

If you want the biggest “I recognize this instantly!” moment, most visitors start with the Mrs. Doubtfire House or the Full House connection (and then swing by the Painted Ladies for the real opening-credits view).

Want to See These Famous Homes Without Chasing Addresses?

Movie and TV houses in San Francisco aren’t clustered in one place — they’re scattered across hills, neighborhoods, and some seriously steep streets. Seeing them in real life is way more fun when someone else handles the route, timing, and photo stops.

Our Private San Francisco Jeep Tours make it easy to connect famous filming locations with iconic views, hidden streets, and classic neighborhoods — all in one relaxed, story-filled ride. 

Explore Private San Francisco Jeep Tours →

Cinematic San Francisco: Keep Exploring

Love a good “wait… I’ve seen that on TV!” moment? Here are three more ways to keep the filming-location hunt going:

• Famous SF Homes – celebrity spots + movie & TV homes, organized by neighborhood
• Golden Gate Bridge on Screen – 12 movies featuring the bridge (action, sci-fi, disaster, rom-com)
• Alcatraz on Screen – 21 movies + 14 TV shows featuring The Rock

San Francisco is one of those cities where reality and reel life constantly overlap — you’ll turn a corner and suddenly feel like you’ve stepped into a scene. Bring your camera, keep it respectful, and have fun spotting these iconic places in the wild.