San Francisco Botanical Garden: A Lush Oasis in the Heart of the City
Explore the San Francisco Botanical Garden, a lush 55-acre paradise featuring diverse plant species and serene landscapes in the heart of Golden Gate Park.
Discover the San Francisco Botanical Garden, a stunning 55-acre paradise filled with diverse plant species, serene landscapes, and educational experiences. A must-visit for nature lovers and tourists alike.
A brief summary to San Francisco Botanical Garden
- 1199 9th Ave, San Francisco, Golden Gate Park, California, 94122, US
- +1415-661-1316
- Visit website
- Monday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Thursday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Friday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Saturday 7:30 am-6 pm
- Sunday 7:30 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the spring for the best floral displays, especially the cherry blossoms and magnolias.
- Check the garden's schedule for free guided tours that offer deeper insights into the plant collections.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the many peaceful spots throughout the garden.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the garden covers a large area with various walking paths.
- Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience.
Getting There
-
Public Transportation (Bus)
From Castro Valley, head to the Castro Valley BART station located at 3300 Norbridge Dr, Castro Valley, CA 94546. Take the BART train towards San Francisco/Daly City. After approximately 30 minutes, get off at the Embarcadero BART station. From there, transfer to the Muni bus line 5-Fulton. Board the bus and ride for about 30 minutes until you reach the stop at 9th Ave & Lincoln Way. The San Francisco Botanical Garden is located a short walk from there at 1199 9th Ave.
-
Walking
If you find yourself near the Castro Valley Public Library at 3600 Norbridge Dr, Castro Valley, CA 94546, you can take a scenic walking route. Start by heading east on Norbridge Dr, then turn left onto Lake Chabot Rd. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with Castro Valley Blvd. Turn right onto Castro Valley Blvd and walk until you reach the Castro Valley BART station. From there, follow the Public Transportation (Bus) guidance above.
-
Ride Sharing Service
For a more direct route, consider using a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. Open the app on your smartphone and enter 'San Francisco Botanical Garden, 1199 9th Ave, San Francisco, CA 94122' as your destination. The driver will pick you up from your location in Castro Valley and take you directly to the garden, which generally takes about 45 minutes depending on traffic.
Discover more about San Francisco Botanical Garden
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Alvord Lake Bridge
1.3 km
Explore the beauty of Alvord Lake Bridge in Golden Gate Park, a serene escape for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts in San Francisco.
Sundial
1.3 km
Discover the Sundial in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco—a historic landmark blending beauty and nature in one serene experience.
501 Stanyan St
1.4 km
Explore the architectural elegance of 501 Stanyan St in Golden Gate Park, where nature and history intertwine in the heart of San Francisco.
McLaren Lodge
1.4 km
Discover the historic McLaren Lodge in Golden Gate Park, home to the SF Recreation & Parks Department and a monument to John McLaren's vision, showcasing stunning Richardsonian Romanesque architecture.
1524 Haight St
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant heart of San Francisco's counterculture at the iconic Haight-Ashbury building, steeped in history and creativity.
Janis Joplin's House
2.0 km
Discover the historical significance of Janis Joplin's house in San Francisco's Haight-Ashbury, a tribute to the legendary rock star and the vibrant counterculture of the 1960s.
Haight-Ashbury Clock
2.0 km
Discover the Haight-Ashbury Clock, an iconic historical landmark in San Francisco, reflecting the city's rich counterculture heritage and vibrant artistic spirit.
Sutro Tower
2.0 km
Discover Sutro Tower, the iconic communications hub in San Francisco offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the city's rich landscape.
Grateful Dead House
2.0 km
Explore the iconic Grateful Dead House in Haight-Ashbury, a historical landmark that celebrates the legacy of a generation-defining rock band.
Buena Vista Park
2.3 km
Discover San Francisco's oldest park, a hilltop oasis with winding trails, panoramic city views, and a unique history, offering a tranquil escape in the heart of the city.
Twin Peaks
2.5 km
Experience San Francisco's most breathtaking panoramic views from Twin Peaks, where the city, bay, and ocean converge in a stunning display of natural and urban beauty.
John Spencer House
2.6 km
Experience San Francisco's Victorian splendor at the John Spencer House, a meticulously preserved Queen Anne mansion in the heart of Haight-Ashbury, reflecting the city's rich architectural heritage.
Delano House
2.7 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Delano House, a charming historical landmark in San Francisco's Buena Vista neighborhood.
Alfred E. Clarke Mansion
2.8 km
Explore the Alfred E. Clarke Mansion in San Francisco's Eureka Valley, a Baroque-Queen Anne architectural gem with a rich history, offering a glimpse into the city's opulent past.
Sea Cliff
2.8 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Sea Cliff in San Francisco, where breathtaking ocean views and serene parks provide a perfect escape from city life.
Unmissable attractions to see
Shakespeare Garden
0.2 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Shakespeare Garden, a serene escape in Golden Gate Park filled with enchanting flora and literary inspiration.
Japanese Tea Garden
0.3 km
Discover tranquility and beauty at the Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park, a serene escape showcasing Japanese culture and stunning landscapes.
Stow Lake
0.4 km
Experience the serene beauty of Stow Lake in Golden Gate Park, a perfect getaway in San Francisco for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
California Academy of Sciences
0.4 km
Discover the California Academy of Sciences, a premier science museum in San Francisco featuring an aquarium, planetarium, and a rainforest dome.
Morrison Planetarium
0.4 km
Discover the mysteries of the universe at Morrison Planetarium in San Francisco, where immersive experiences and stellar shows await every visitor.
de Young Museum
0.4 km
Discover the de Young Museum: an artistic gem in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park, showcasing American art and breathtaking views.
50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr
0.4 km
Explore the serene beauty of Hagiwara Tea Garden in San Francisco, where Japanese culture meets nature's tranquility within Golden Gate Park.
Strawberry Hill
0.5 km
Explore Strawberry Hill in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, a picturesque peak with stunning views, lush landscapes, and serene nature trails for relaxation.
National AIDS Memorial Grove
0.7 km
Discover the National AIDS Memorial Grove in San Francisco: a tranquil space for reflection and remembrance in the heart of Golden Gate Park.
Conservatory of Flowers
1.0 km
Explore the enchanting Conservatory of Flowers in San Francisco, where botanical beauty and Victorian architecture create a stunning experience.
Essential places to dine
Chapeau
1.9 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Chapeau in San Francisco's Richmond District, where elegance meets exceptional flavors.
Spruce
2.6 km
Discover Spruce: A premier New American restaurant in San Francisco's Presidio Heights serving exquisite seasonal cuisine and elegant ambiance.
Nopa
2.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of New American cuisine at Nopa in San Francisco's Alamo Square, where organic ingredients meet Mediterranean flair.
Fable
3.1 km
Discover Fable in San Francisco's Castro district - where Californian flavors meet sustainability in an enchanting dining atmosphere.
Blind Butcher
3.2 km
Experience innovative New American cuisine at Blind Butcher in San Francisco's lively Castro district - where fresh ingredients meet creative flair.
Starbelly
3.3 km
Experience fresh Californian cuisine at Starbelly in San Francisco's Castro district - where seasonal ingredients meet innovative flavors.
State Bird Provisions
3.7 km
Discover innovative American cuisine with a Californian twist at State Bird Provisions in San Francisco's Fillmore District.
The Progress
3.7 km
Discover innovative Californian cuisine at The Progress in San Francisco’s charming Fillmore District—an unforgettable dining experience awaits!
Petit Crenn
3.9 km
Discover the artful blend of tradition and innovation at Petit Crenn, a premier French restaurant in San Francisco's Hayes Valley.
Suppenküche
3.9 km
Experience authentic German cuisine at Suppenküche in San Francisco's Hayes Valley - where every dish tells a story.
a Mano
4.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at a Mano in Hayes Valley - where fresh ingredients meet culinary creativity.
Burma Love - Mission
4.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of authentic Burmese cuisine at Burma Love in San Francisco's Mission District - a true culinary delight.
Bistro Ember
4.2 km
Discover Bistro Ember in Noe Valley: A delightful Mediterranean escape with Turkish-inspired cuisine in the heart of San Francisco.
Rich Table
4.2 km
Discover Rich Table: A top-rated New American restaurant in San Francisco’s Lower Haight serving innovative dishes crafted from local ingredients.
Chez Maman West
4.2 km
Savor authentic French cuisine at Chez Maman West in Hayes Valley - where culinary passion meets inviting ambiance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Land of the Sun
1.6 km
Explore the vibrant Land of the Sun gift shop in Haight-Ashbury, San Francisco, for unique clothing, accessories, and local souvenirs that capture the city's spirit.
San Francisco Mercantile
1.7 km
Explore the essence of San Francisco at San Francisco Mercantile, your go-to shop for unique gifts and local artisan creations in Haight-Ashbury.
The Golden Hour
1.8 km
Discover vintage treasures and unique finds at The Golden Hour, San Francisco's charming vintage clothing store in the heart of Richmond District.
Foggy Notion
1.9 km
Explore Foggy Notion, a charming boutique in San Francisco, offering a captivating selection of unique gifts and artisanal treasures.
Held Over
1.9 km
Explore unique vintage fashion at Held Over, where every piece has a story and reflects the vibrant spirit of San Francisco's Haight-Ashbury.
Things Lucky Handicraft
2.0 km
Explore the vibrant Haight-Ashbury district and uncover unique gifts and handcrafted treasures at Things Lucky Handicraft.
Welcome Haight & Ashbury
2.0 km
Explore the heart of Haight-Ashbury with unique gifts and local treasures at Welcome Haight & Ashbury, San Francisco's iconic visitor center.
True
2.1 km
Discover unique fashion at True Clothing in Haight-Ashbury, San Francisco's iconic store for eclectic styles and local designer pieces.
Button Down
2.9 km
Explore Button Down, a charming clothing store in San Francisco’s Presidio Heights, offering unique apparel and accessories for the fashion-savvy traveler.
Rare Device
2.9 km
Explore Rare Device in San Francisco for a unique gift shopping experience with local art and eclectic finds.
The Perish Trust
2.9 km
Discover unique gifts and local art at The Perish Trust, a charming shop in San Francisco's Fillmore District that celebrates creativity and craftsmanship.
Local Take
3.1 km
Explore Local Take in San Francisco for unique gifts and local artisanal treasures that capture the city's vibrant spirit.
Life
3.3 km
Explore Life, a boutique gift shop in Lower Haight, San Francisco, offering unique aromatherapy, jewelry, candles, and artisan treasures.
COVE
3.5 km
Discover unique gifts at COVE, a charming shop in San Francisco's Lower Haight, showcasing local artisans and eclectic treasures.
Chocolate Covered
3.7 km
Explore the heavenly world of artisanal chocolates at Chocolate Covered in San Francisco's Noe Valley, where every bite is a blissful indulgence.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Brioche Bakery & Cafe
1.8 km
Indulge in artisanal pastries and exceptional brunch at Brioche Bakery & Cafe, a must-visit gem in San Francisco's Haight-Ashbury.
Tara Indian Cuisine
3.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of India at Tara Indian Cuisine in San Francisco's Castro district, where tradition meets modern dining.
Noc Noc
3.4 km
Discover Noc Noc, a vibrant bar in San Francisco's Lower Haight, offering creative cocktails and a unique atmosphere perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Blackbird
3.5 km
Experience the best of San Francisco nightlife at Blackbird Bar, where craft cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere await.
ABV
4.0 km
Discover ABV in San Francisco: a vibrant bar and restaurant known for its craft cocktails and seasonal dishes, perfect for any culinary adventure.
Smuggler's Cove
4.2 km
Discover the enchanting atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at Smuggler's Cove, San Francisco's premier cocktail bar and rum haven.
The Beehive
4.3 km
Explore The Beehive, San Francisco's cocktail bar renowned for its inventive drinks and lively ambiance in the heart of the Mission District.
Dahlia SF
4.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of San Francisco at Dahlia SF, a bar known for its creative cocktails and lively atmosphere in the heart of the Mission District.
The Sycamore
4.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Sycamore, a gastropub in San Francisco's Mission District, where delicious American cuisine meets an extensive wine selection.
Friends Bar
4.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Friends Bar in San Francisco's Sunnyside, where affordable drinks and a friendly atmosphere await.
The Majestic Butterfly Lounge
4.4 km
Experience the art of mixology at The Majestic Butterfly Lounge, a stylish cocktail bar in San Francisco's Cathedral Hill, perfect for a vibrant night out.
Casements Bar
4.5 km
Experience the lively spirit of San Francisco at Casements Bar, a unique Irish pub and cocktail haven in the Mission District.
Bear Vs. Bull
4.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite flavors at Bear Vs. Bull, a premier cocktail bar in San Francisco's Mission District.
Mission Bar
4.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife and local flavors at Mission Bar, a beloved spot in San Francisco's Mission District.
Evil Eye
4.9 km
Discover the creative cocktail haven in San Francisco's Mission District, where unique drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Pa'ina Restaurant & Lounge
3.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Hawaiian cuisine at Pa'ina Restaurant & Lounge in San Francisco's Japantown, a perfect blend of food and festive atmosphere.
The Valencia Room
4.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of San Francisco at The Valencia Room, where live music, dancing, and delicious drinks come together for an unforgettable experience.
Make-Out Room
4.6 km
Discover San Francisco's eclectic nightlife at the Make-Out Room, a vibrant night club in the Mission District known for its lively atmosphere and diverse music scene.
ECHO SFC
4.6 km
Discover the electric nightlife at ECHO SFC in San Francisco's Mission District, where vibrant music and dance come alive.
OASIS
4.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Oasis, a premier gay night club in San Francisco's SoMa district, featuring live performances and an inclusive atmosphere.
Eve Nightclub & Lounge
4.8 km
Experience the pulse of San Francisco's nightlife at Eve Nightclub & Lounge, where electrifying music and a chic atmosphere come together for an unforgettable night.
Halcyon SF
4.9 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Halcyon SF, a premier night club in San Francisco's SoMa district, where music and fun never stop.
Audio Nightclub
4.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Audio Nightclub, a premier destination for music lovers and cocktail enthusiasts in San Francisco's SoMa district.
Providence Night Club
4.9 km
Dive into San Francisco's nightlife at Providence Night Club, where live music meets vibrant energy for an unforgettable evening.
Club 26 Mix
5.0 km
Discover the energetic nightlife of San Francisco at Club 26 Mix, where vibrant music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights.
DNA Lounge
5.0 km
Discover the energy of DNA Lounge, a versatile night club in San Francisco offering food, music, and nightlife in a vibrant atmosphere.
Lucitas Nightclub
5.0 km
Discover the lively ambiance and delightful drinks at Lucitas Nightclub, a must-visit bar in San Francisco's Bernal Heights neighborhood.
Club Malibu
5.0 km
Discover the electrifying atmosphere of Club Malibu, the heart of San Francisco's nightlife, offering diverse music and unforgettable experiences.
Rouge Night Club
5.2 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Rouge Night Club in San Francisco's Polk Gulch, where music, dance, and fun collide in a vibrant atmosphere.
F8 Nightclub & Bar
5.3 km
Discover the pulse of San Francisco nightlife at F8 Nightclub & Bar, where music, art, and community come together for an unforgettable experience.
