Outer Richmond in San Francisco City and County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)
Hints of History
Looking around today's Ocean Beach, it's difficult to visualize Playland and the surrounding areas as they once were. But there are plenty of reminders all around you.
Just south of here at Golden Gate Park's west entry stands the Dutch windmill, which was built in 1902 and renovated in 1982. It pumped water from underground to fill man-made lakes and aid in the park's construction.
To the north, the Cliff House exhibits historical photos and memorabilia. Built in 1909, it is a descendant of the original, which burned down in 1894, as did its replacement in 1907. Downstairs you'll find the Musée Mechanique, home to arcade games relocated from Playland and Sutro Baths, and a replica of the Fun House's infamous Laughing Sal (drop in some coins to hear her haunting howl). On the terrace, visitors can peer into the Camera Obscura, built in 1940. It is the largest optical device in the west, offering a revolving panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
Sutro Baths, beyond the Cliff House, lost its popularity over time despite attempts to revitalize with new attractions. In 1966, owner George Whitney gave up and sold the property, which caught fire and burned during its demolition. Today, only the ruins remain as an exploration site for curious beachgoers.
The It's It, Playland's famous ice cream and cookie sandwich — which the Whitney brothers invented — can still be purchased at most grocery stores.
And the Ocean Beach Terminal, where you now stand, once bridged the gap between Playland and a city that was miles of sand dunes away.
"This is the magic of Playland...you see, Playland is associated with all of our memories that are near and dear to our hearts. So when we think about Playland, we rekindle those feelings..."
Dave Warren
Erected 1996.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Entertainment. A significant historical year for this entry is 1902.
Location. 37° 46.406′ N, 122° 30.591′ W. Marker is in San Francisco, California, in San Francisco City and County. It is in Outer Richmond. Marker is at the intersection of Cabrillo Street and La Playa Street, on the right when traveling west on Cabrillo Street. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: San Francisco CA 94121, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Turning Sand to Gold (here, next to this marker); The City at Play (here, next to this marker); A Memorable Muse (here, next to this marker); Ticket to Ride (a few steps from this marker); Historical Site (within shouting distance of this marker); North Dutch Windmill (approx. 0.2 miles away); Roald Amundsen (approx. ¼ mile away); The Sutro Home (approx. 0.3 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in San Francisco.
Also see . . .
1. Golden Gate Park Windmills & Tulips. (Submitted on April 9, 2019, by Joel Seewald of Madison Heights, Michigan.)
2. Cliff House, San Francisco. (Submitted on April 9, 2019, by Joel Seewald of Madison Heights, Michigan.)
3. Musée Mécanique. Musée Mécanique moved to Pier 45 at Fisherman's Wharf in 2002. (Submitted on April 9, 2019, by Joel Seewald of Madison Heights, Michigan.)
4. Sutro Baths History. (Submitted on April 9, 2019, by Joel Seewald of Madison Heights, Michigan.)
5. It's It Ice Cream: About Us. (Submitted on April 9, 2019, by Joel Seewald of Madison Heights, Michigan.)
Credits. This page was last revised on February 7, 2023. It was originally submitted on April 9, 2019, by Joel Seewald of Madison Heights, Michigan. This page has been viewed 196 times since then and 9 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. submitted on April 9, 2019, by Joel Seewald of Madison Heights, Michigan.