Golden Gate Park is a horticulturally diverse and picturesque space, designed in 1871 by park commissioner William Hall. The park incorporates winding walking trails that weave their way past beautiful gardens, playgrounds, picnic areas, woods and lakes spanning over 400 hectares. Golden Gate Park has a laidback and peaceful vibe and is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of San Francisco.
This beautiful urban respite is where locals come to relax and get back to nature. Hire a bike and ride the sloping pathways down towards the beach and back. Join a Segway tour as a fun way to see more of the park’s charm or take a paddle boat ride on Stow Lake or just sit for a while and soak up the sun. The low-key atmosphere still retains the vibe of the Summer of Love fifty odd years later. There are many gardens dedicated the certain flowers, like tulips and sweet-smelling roses, which make a perfect backdrop for a photo opportunity. For blooms galore, visit the San Francisco Conservatory of Flowers, one of the world's largest.
One of the park’s attractions is the California Academy of Sciences, which is well worth a visit. It has a stunning display of eco-friendly architecture and interactive science exhibits. It also boasts a rooftop garden, which is a perfect place to relax on a warm day. There’s also the de Young Art Museum, designed by famed studio Herzog De Meuron, which is crammed with tribal relics sourced from Asia to Africa.
Visit the Japanese Tea Gardens for a refreshing infusion with a splash of inner peace. Sit among the ornate bridges and perfectly manicured gardens, whilst you refresh your taste buds and your soul with a selection of teas whilst enjoying a taste of Kyoto right in the heart of the city.
Nature lovers may be lucky enough to see herons, egrets, gulls, warblers and woodpeckers among the park’s lakes and gardens. There is even a herd of bison who reside in an enclosed field next to Spreckels Lake, on the northern side of the park, which are always a hit with children.
Golden Gate Park can be reached by car, the San Francisco Municipal (Muni) services or even on two wheels. There is a reasonably-priced car park located on Fulton Street and 10th Avenue or you may be lucky and find a spot to park on a nearby street. The Muni runs to Golden Gate Park from stops throughout the city.
