The Last Word

Labor Day weekend this year marked the 50th anniversary of the closure of Playland-at-the-Beach. Its 1972 shuttering was followed by a public auction, and then finally demolition. Condos now stand on the site where generations of San Franciscans found amusement (perhaps with a tinge of danger). By far some of the most common laments we at WNP hear is “why did they tear it down?!” and “bring it back!” But the truth is, Playland was rather shabby towards the end, and no longer exuded “family friendly” vibes. In our recent two-part podcast featuring Playland memories, Paul Judge smartly observed that “Warm memories of Playland linger for many…Yet, it is hard to imagine the will, the real estate, or the means to create and sustain such an amusement park setting today.” Even George Whitney Jr. himself had similar sentiments. In a 2002 oral history conducted by John Martini, he said "I'm not sorry that Playland itself is gone. I'm just sorry that San Francisco doesn't have a good location with a good amusement park. But I don't know where else it would be any better than where it was.”

Demolition of Friends and Relations Theatre, originally the Ocean Beach Pavilion, 1972. (Photo by Greg Gaar; courtesy of Greg Gaar / wnp72.1127)

Playland demolition at Great Highway near Cabrillo Street, 1972. (Photo by Greg Gaar; courtesy of Greg Gaar / wnp72.1128)

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