San Francisco Botanical Garden: A Living Museum in Golden Gate Park
Discover a world of plants in Golden Gate Park's serene oasis. Explore themed gardens and enjoy the beauty of nature at the San Francisco Botanical Garden.
Escape the city bustle within the serene 55-acre San Francisco Botanical Garden, nestled in Golden Gate Park. Discover over 8,000 plant species from around the globe, explore themed gardens, and enjoy a peaceful retreat in this urban oasis. Perfect for nature lovers, families, and anyone seeking tranquility.
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
- Check the garden's website for the latest information on opening hours, special events, and free admission days.
- San Francisco weather can be unpredictable; dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Take a free, docent-led tour to learn about the garden's highlights and diverse plant collections.
- Visit early (7:30 am - 9:00 am) for free admission and a peaceful experience.
- SF residents with proof of address receive free admission.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown San Francisco, take the N Judah Muni light rail to 9th Ave & Irving St. From there, it's a short walk north to the Botanical Garden's main entrance. Alternatively, several Muni bus lines, including the 7 Haight/Noriega and 44 O'Shaughnessy, stop near the garden at 9th Avenue and Lincoln Way. A single Muni fare is $3.00 [Muni Fares].
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Walking
If you are already in Golden Gate Park, follow signs towards the Japanese Tea Garden or the California Academy of Sciences; the Botanical Garden is a short walk west of these landmarks. Enter through the main gate near 9th Avenue and Lincoln Way, or the north gate off Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. Note that the North Gate opens at 9:00 am.
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Ride Share/Taxi
Request a ride to the main entrance at 1199 9th Ave, San Francisco. Be aware that traffic within Golden Gate Park can be heavy, especially on weekends. A typical ride from downtown San Francisco will cost approximately $16-$30.
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Parking
Limited street parking is available on Martin Luther King Jr Drive, Nancy Pelosi Drive, and Bowling Green Drive. The Music Concourse Garage, located off Martin Luther King Drive across from the Botanical Garden, offers paid parking. Garage is open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Parking rates at the Music Concourse Garage typically range from $5-6 per hour. Check for any posted time limits or restrictions.
Discover more about San Francisco Botanical Garden
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Alvord Lake Bridge
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Sundial
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501 Stanyan St
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1524 Haight St
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Janis Joplin's House
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Japanese Tea Garden
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Stow Lake
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California Academy of Sciences
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Morrison Planetarium
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de Young Museum
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50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr
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Conservatory of Flowers
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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