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McLaren Lodge: Golden Gate Park's Historic Heart

Discover Golden Gate Park's historic McLaren Lodge, a Moorish-Gothic landmark and gateway to San Francisco's urban oasis.

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McLaren Lodge, built in 1896, serves as the gateway to Golden Gate Park and headquarters for the San Francisco Recreation & Parks Department. This Moorish-Gothic building, once the home of park superintendent John McLaren, offers a glimpse into the park's rich history and enduring legacy.

A brief summary to McLaren Lodge

  • Monday 8 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Explore the JFK Promenade, a 1.5-mile car-free stretch west of McLaren Lodge, perfect for walking, jogging, and cycling.
  • Visit the nearby California Academy of Sciences, de Young Museum, and Japanese Tea Garden, all easily accessible from McLaren Lodge.
  • Check out the free Golden Gate Park shuttle that runs from McLaren Lodge to JFK Drive and Transverse Drive on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the intersection of Stanyan and Fulton streets, head north on Stanyan Street. McLaren Lodge will be on your right at 501 Stanyan Street. The walk is approximately 10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Several Muni lines serve Golden Gate Park. Take the N-Judah streetcar or the 5 Fulton bus. Get off near the park's east entrance and walk to McLaren Lodge at 501 Stanyan Street. A single Muni fare is $3.

  • Ride Share/Taxi

    From downtown San Francisco, a taxi or ride-share to McLaren Lodge will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around $17-$31.

Unlock the Best of McLaren Lodge

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Discover more about McLaren Lodge

McLaren Lodge, situated at the eastern entrance of Golden Gate Park, is more than just a building; it's a historic landmark that embodies the spirit of San Francisco's beloved park. Constructed in 1896, the lodge served as both the residence of John McLaren, the park's superintendent, and the headquarters for the San Francisco Parks Department (now the San Francisco Recreation & Parks Department). Designed by architect Edward Robinson Swain, the lodge's rustic stone exterior showcases a Moorish-Gothic architectural style. The building's thick ashlar basalt masonry and sandstone quoins speak to its enduring construction and historical significance. For 47 years, John McLaren resided within its walls, overseeing the park's development and ensuring its preservation. Even after his death in 1943, the lodge continued to serve as a residence for subsequent superintendents before becoming the central hub for the Recreation & Parks Department. Today, McLaren Lodge stands as a testament to the transformative power of vision and dedication. From McLaren Lodge, visitors can easily access the park's many treasures, making it a perfect starting point for exploring all that Golden Gate Park has to offer.

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