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National AIDS Memorial Grove: A Sanctuary of Healing and Remembrance

A serene sanctuary in Golden Gate Park dedicated to remembrance, healing, and hope for those touched by the AIDS epidemic.

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The National AIDS Memorial Grove, nestled in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, is a serene 10-acre sanctuary dedicated to remembering lives touched by the AIDS epidemic. Founded in 1991, it offers a space for healing, reflection, and hope, ensuring that the story of AIDS is never forgotten.

A brief summary to National AIDS Memorial Grove

  • Monday 5 am-10 pm
  • Tuesday 5 am-10 pm
  • Wednesday 5 am-10 pm
  • Thursday 5 am-10 pm
  • Friday 5 am-10 pm
  • Saturday 5 am-10 pm
  • Sunday 5 am-10 pm

Local tips

  • Participate in a Community Volunteer Workday (March-October, third Saturday of each month) to help maintain the Grove and connect with the community.
  • Visit on World AIDS Day (December 1) for a moving ceremony of remembrance and reflection.
  • Take time to wander the Grove's paths and discover the engraved names and tributes to those lost to AIDS.
  • Check the National AIDS Memorial website for information on special events, exhibits, and programs.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From various points in San Francisco, the Muni bus is a convenient option. The 5 Fulton bus runs along the north side of Golden Gate Park. The 7, 21, and 73 buses stop at Stanyan and Haight Streets, a short walk to the Grove. From the bus stops, walk east into Golden Gate Park towards the eastern end, near the tennis courts; the Grove is located near Nancy Pelosi Drive and Bowling Green Drive. A single ride on Muni costs $3.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Golden Gate Park, follow signs towards the eastern end of the park and the tennis courts. The National AIDS Memorial Grove is located near the intersection of Nancy Pelosi Drive and Bowling Green Drive. The Grove is easily accessible from many points within the park via walking paths. There is no cost associated with walking.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Request a ride to the intersection of Nancy Pelosi Drive and Bowling Green Drive in Golden Gate Park. From there, the entrance to the National AIDS Memorial Grove is a short walk. A short ride from nearby neighborhoods (e.g., Haight-Ashbury) will likely cost between $15-$25.

  • Driving

    Drive into Golden Gate Park and follow signs towards the eastern end of the park. The National AIDS Memorial Grove is located near Nancy Pelosi Drive and Bowling Green Drive, across from the tennis courts. Parking within Golden Gate Park is free, with 3-4 hour street parking available. However, parking can be limited, especially on weekends and holidays. Be sure to observe parking rule signs. There are no tolls, or special access fees.

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Discover more about National AIDS Memorial Grove

The National AIDS Memorial Grove, located in Golden Gate Park, is a place where millions of Americans, touched directly or indirectly by AIDS, can gather to heal, hope, and remember. This 10-acre grove serves as a dedicated space in the national landscape, honoring those who have died and those who continue to fight against the ongoing pandemic. Conceived in 1988 by San Francisco residents seeking a way to express their collective grief, the Grove was established in the de Laveaga Dell, a neglected area of Golden Gate Park. Through the efforts of thousands of volunteers, the dell was transformed into a lush and tranquil memorial. The Grove achieved national status in 1996, placing it alongside other significant memorials such as the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. The Grove features meandering paths, a Stone Circle for ceremonies, and towering redwood trees. Names of AIDS victims are etched onto boulders and benches throughout the area, creating a deeply personal and moving experience. The Circle of Friends, located within the Grove, is engraved with the names of over 1,500 people whose lives have been touched by AIDS. The National AIDS Memorial Grove is more than just a memorial; it is a place of community and activism. It hosts annual World AIDS Day ceremonies and monthly volunteer workdays, fostering a sense of connection and promoting AIDS awareness. The Grove also serves as a platform for advocating for human rights and social justice, ensuring that the lessons learned from the AIDS epidemic are not forgotten.

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