The Official"Mrs. Doubtfire" Tour of San Francisco
Embark on a journey through San Francisco with this Mrs. Doubtfire tour, visiting filming sites and places that pay tribute to Robin Williams.
San Francisco has been the backdrop for many beloved films, but few capture the city's scenic beauty and unique charm quite like "Mrs. Doubtfire." The 1993 comedy starring the late Robin Williams showcased his remarkable comedic talent and highlighted some of San Francisco's most iconic locations.
A “Mrs. Doubtfire” tour of San Francisco is more than a walk down memory lane; it's a tribute to Robin Williams's humor and big heart. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to “Mrs. Doubtfire”'s magic, these sites offer a unique way to experience the city through the lens of one of its most cherished films and local talents.
Filming locations in San Francisco
Many of these famous locations are easy to pick out, like the Golden Gate Bridge, iconic Cable Cars, and other historic landmarks. Here are some of the top filming locations in San Francisco to start your tour!
Crissy Field
Between Fort Point and Marina GreenThis famous location in San Francisco's Presidio is where the montage of family fun in the city was filmed. Playing soccer and riding bikes is common in this area, not just for the Hillard family, but also for many locals and visitors. Enjoy a sunny day in this beautiful part of San Francisco with grassy fields, a beach, and stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Also, be sure to check out the new Tunnel Tops Park, which spans 14 acres and connects the Presidio to Crissy Field.
Daniel’s Apartment
520-522 Green St.In North Beach, Robin Williams’s character, Daniel, finds his own apartment, where he struggles to show that he can be a stable parent for his children. It’s here that Daniel, half-disguised as Mrs. Doubtfire, tries to convince a social worker that he has accomplished all the tasks she gave him— while wearing a face full of whipped cream to cover his tracks. Take a selfie outside and say, “Helloooo!”
The Hillard House
2640 Steiner St.One of the most recognizable locations from the film is the Hillard family home. Located in the picturesque Pacific Heights neighborhood, this house served as the exterior of the family’s residence. Fans of the film will remember the memorable scenes of Mrs. Doubtfire’s comical entrances and exits. While it's now a private residence, you can still snap photos from the street and admire the beautiful architecture that captured the essence of San Francisco.
Powell-Hyde Cable Car
Union Square to Fisherman's WharfNo movie or TV show filmed in San Francisco is complete without the historic cable cars. The actual Cable Car line runs from Union Square to Fisherman's Wharf, but with a bit of Hollywood magic, they changed the direction of this 150-year-old system for a few parts of the movie.
The San Francisco Chronicle
901 Mission St.
Head downtown to 901 Mission Street, where scenes from Daniel’s job interview were filmed. The imposing home of The San Francisco Chronicle represents the hustle and bustle of Daniel’s struggle to balance work and family life. This area of the city has continued to evolve and now has a new park filled with free public art for you to explore. Be sure to check out the Wind Baffles art installation that lights up the Parks at 5M in the evenings.
Filming locations in East Bay
While the movie is set entirely in San Francisco, many East Bay locations, including historic hotels and infamous restaurants, were also used in the film; here are the top spots across the bay.
Bridges Restaurant
44 Church St., Danville“Help is on the way!” Take a short drive out of the city to Danville to visit Bridges Restaurant, the site of one of the film’s most hilarious scenes. This is where Daniel tries to juggle two simultaneous dinners: one with his family, as Mrs. Doubtfire, and another with his boss, as himself. The restaurant still welcomes diners today, offering a chance to eat where Robin Williams’s comedic genius was on full display—and almost one-upped by his leading lady, Sally Field.
The Claremont Club & Spa
41 Tunnel Rd, BerkeleyNestled in the Berkeley Hills overlooking San Francisco Bay, The Claremont Club & Spa is a historic luxury hotel that has been a Bay Area landmark since 1915. It's here that Daniel, as Mrs. Doubtfire, joins his family and his ex-wife's new boyfriend for a swim—and instigates an infamous "run-by fruiting". You can book a night here and relax in their plush rooms or get a day pass and enjoy the pool and spa with amazing views of San Francisco.
Honoring Robin Williams
Robin Williams’s connection to San Francisco goes beyond “Mrs. Doubtfire.” The actor lived in the Bay Area for many years, and his presence is still felt throughout the city.
Robin Williams Tunnel
As you leave the city, drive through the Robin Williams Tunnel, formerly known as the Waldo Tunnel. Renamed in 2015, the tunnel is easily recognizable by its rainbow-painted arch, symbolizing Williams’ colorful personality and enduring impact. This tunnel, just north of the Golden Gate Bridge, offers stunning views of the iconic landmark.
Robin Williams Meadow
Located within Golden Gate Park, Robin Williams Meadow is a touching tribute to the actor's legacy. Originally named Sharon Meadow, it was renamed in 2018 to honor Williams’ contributions to entertainment and his love for San Francisco. The meadow is a perfect spot to reflect on the joy that he brought to countless fans around the world.
Where Robin Williams Lived
Williams lived in the Bay Area for many years, calling multiple locations home. Most notably, he owned a house in the exclusive Sea Cliff neighborhood, known for its luxurious homes, beautifully manicured lawns, and famous residents. He also owned a home in Tiburon, just north of San Francisco. This waterfront community is a great place to explore and just a quick ferry ride from downtown.