Golden Gate Park: San Francisco's Urban Oasis
Discover San Francisco's Golden Gate Park: a vibrant urban escape with gardens, museums, and endless recreational activities.
Spanning over 1,000 acres, Golden Gate Park is a sprawling urban sanctuary in San Francisco, offering a diverse landscape of gardens, museums, and recreational activities. From its humble beginnings as the 'Outside Lands' to its current status as a beloved landmark, the park provides a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
A brief summary to Golden Gate Park
- San Francisco, California, US
- +1415-831-2700
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Take advantage of the free Golden Gate Park shuttle to navigate between attractions within the park.
- Visit on a weekday to avoid weekend crowds.
- Check the park's event calendar for festivals, concerts, and other special events.
- Explore the park by bike to cover more ground and see more attractions.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the park's many meadows or gardens.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown San Francisco, several Muni lines provide direct access to Golden Gate Park. The N Judah light rail line stops south of the park, while the 5 and 5R buses run along Fulton Street on the north side. A single Muni fare is $3.00. Check the SFMTA website or app for real-time arrival information and to plan your trip.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient way to reach Golden Gate Park from anywhere in San Francisco. A typical ride from downtown to the de Young Museum or the California Academy of Sciences costs approximately $17-$21 and takes about 9 minutes, depending on traffic. Note that prices may vary based on demand and time of day.
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Walking
From the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood, the eastern edge of Golden Gate Park is easily accessible on foot. Simply walk west along Haight Street until you reach Stanyan Street, which marks the park's entrance. From there, you can explore the park's many attractions and trails. The walk from Haight-Ashbury to the California Academy of Sciences is approximately 1.5 miles and takes about 30 minutes.
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Parking
Limited free parking is available throughout Golden Gate Park, but it can be challenging to find, especially on weekends. A paid parking garage is located near the Music Concourse at 10th Avenue and Fulton Street; rates vary. As of June 2025, the city is considering ending free street parking and charging $3 per hour. Be aware of parking restrictions and time limits to avoid tickets or towing.
Discover more about Golden Gate Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sea Cliff
2.0 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.
Dutch Windmill
2.3 km
Discover the charming Dutch Windmill in Golden Gate Park, a historical landmark surrounded by stunning gardens and rich cultural heritage.
Sundial
2.4 km
Discover the Sundial in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco—a historic landmark blending beauty and nature in one serene experience.
Alvord Lake Bridge
2.5 km
Explore the beauty of Alvord Lake Bridge in Golden Gate Park, a serene escape for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts in San Francisco.
501 Stanyan St
2.5 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
2.5 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.
Sutro Tower
3.1 km
Discover Sutro Tower, the iconic communications hub in San Francisco offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the city's rich landscape.
1524 Haight St
3.1 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
3.2 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
3.2 km
Discover the Haight-Ashbury Clock, an iconic historical landmark in San Francisco, reflecting the city's rich counterculture heritage and vibrant artistic spirit.
Grateful Dead House
3.2 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
3.5 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
3.6 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.
California Historical Landmark 760: Laurel Hill Cemetery Site
3.6 km
Discover the poignant history of San Francisco's former Laurel Hill Cemetery, a 'city of the dead' transformed into a vibrant neighborhood, marked by a California Historical Landmark.
John Spencer House
3.8 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Strawberry Hill
0.7 km
Explore Strawberry Hill in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, a picturesque peak with stunning views, lush landscapes, and serene nature trails for relaxation.
Stow Lake
0.9 km
Experience the serene beauty of Stow Lake in Golden Gate Park, a perfect getaway in San Francisco for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Japanese Tea Garden
1.1 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.
San Francisco Botanical Garden
1.2 km
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.
50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr
1.3 km
Explore the serene beauty of Hagiwara Tea Garden in San Francisco, where Japanese culture meets nature's tranquility within Golden Gate Park.
de Young Museum
1.3 km
Discover the de Young Museum: an artistic gem in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park, showcasing American art and breathtaking views.
Bison Paddock
1.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Bison Paddock in Golden Gate Park, a unique wildlife attraction showcasing American bison in a stunning natural setting.
Shakespeare Garden
1.4 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Shakespeare Garden, a serene escape in Golden Gate Park filled with enchanting flora and literary inspiration.
California Academy of Sciences
1.5 km
Discover the California Academy of Sciences, a premier science museum in San Francisco featuring an aquarium, planetarium, and a rainforest dome.
Morrison Planetarium
1.5 km
Discover the mysteries of the universe at Morrison Planetarium in San Francisco, where immersive experiences and stellar shows await every visitor.
Essential places to dine
Chapeau
2.5 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Chapeau in San Francisco's Richmond District, where elegance meets exceptional flavors.
Spruce
3.4 km
Discover Spruce: A premier New American restaurant in San Francisco's Presidio Heights serving exquisite seasonal cuisine and elegant ambiance.
Nopa
4.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of New American cuisine at Nopa in San Francisco's Alamo Square, where organic ingredients meet Mediterranean flair.
Fable
4.3 km
Discover Fable in San Francisco's Castro district - where Californian flavors meet sustainability in an enchanting dining atmosphere.
Blind Butcher
4.4 km
Experience innovative New American cuisine at Blind Butcher in San Francisco's lively Castro district - where fresh ingredients meet creative flair.
Starbelly
4.5 km
Experience fresh Californian cuisine at Starbelly in San Francisco's Castro district - where seasonal ingredients meet innovative flavors.
State Bird Provisions
4.7 km
Discover innovative American cuisine with a Californian twist at State Bird Provisions in San Francisco's Fillmore District.
The Progress
4.7 km
Discover innovative Californian cuisine at The Progress in San Francisco’s charming Fillmore District—an unforgettable dining experience awaits!
Petit Crenn
5.0 km
Discover the artful blend of tradition and innovation at Petit Crenn, a premier French restaurant in San Francisco's Hayes Valley.
Suppenküche
5.0 km
Experience authentic German cuisine at Suppenküche in San Francisco's Hayes Valley - where every dish tells a story.
a Mano
5.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at a Mano in Hayes Valley - where fresh ingredients meet culinary creativity.
Atelier Crenn
5.3 km
Experience the artistry of French cuisine at Atelier Crenn, where each dish tells a unique story crafted by Chef Dominique Crenn.
Champa Garden Restaurant
5.3 km
Experience authentic Laotian and Thai cuisine at Champa Garden Restaurant in San Francisco - where every dish tells a story.
Bistro Ember
5.3 km
Discover Bistro Ember in Noe Valley: A delightful Mediterranean escape with Turkish-inspired cuisine in the heart of San Francisco.
Rich Table
5.3 km
Discover Rich Table: A top-rated New American restaurant in San Francisco’s Lower Haight serving innovative dishes crafted from local ingredients.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Golden Hour
2.5 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
2.5 km
Explore Foggy Notion, a charming boutique in San Francisco, offering a captivating selection of unique gifts and artisanal treasures.
Land of the Sun
2.8 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
2.9 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.
Held Over
3.1 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
3.1 km
Explore the vibrant Haight-Ashbury district and uncover unique gifts and handcrafted treasures at Things Lucky Handicraft.
Welcome Haight & Ashbury
3.2 km
Explore the heart of Haight-Ashbury with unique gifts and local treasures at Welcome Haight & Ashbury, San Francisco's iconic visitor center.
True
3.3 km
Discover unique fashion at True Clothing in Haight-Ashbury, San Francisco's iconic store for eclectic styles and local designer pieces.
Button Down
3.7 km
Explore Button Down, a charming clothing store in San Francisco’s Presidio Heights, offering unique apparel and accessories for the fashion-savvy traveler.
The Perish Trust
4.0 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.
Rare Device
4.1 km
Explore Rare Device in San Francisco for a unique gift shopping experience with local art and eclectic finds.
Local Take
4.3 km
Explore Local Take in San Francisco for unique gifts and local artisanal treasures that capture the city's vibrant spirit.
Life
4.5 km
Explore Life, a boutique gift shop in Lower Haight, San Francisco, offering unique aromatherapy, jewelry, candles, and artisan treasures.
COVE
4.6 km
Discover unique gifts at COVE, a charming shop in San Francisco's Lower Haight, showcasing local artisans and eclectic treasures.
Chocolate Covered
4.8 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
3.0 km
Indulge in artisanal pastries and exceptional brunch at Brioche Bakery & Cafe, a must-visit gem in San Francisco's Haight-Ashbury.
Noc Noc
4.5 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.
Tara Indian Cuisine
4.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of India at Tara Indian Cuisine in San Francisco's Castro district, where tradition meets modern dining.
Blackbird
4.7 km
Experience the best of San Francisco nightlife at Blackbird Bar, where craft cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere await.
Friends Bar
5.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Friends Bar in San Francisco's Sunnyside, where affordable drinks and a friendly atmosphere await.
ABV
5.2 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
5.4 km
Discover the enchanting atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at Smuggler's Cove, San Francisco's premier cocktail bar and rum haven.
The Majestic Butterfly Lounge
5.5 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.
Ocean Ale House
5.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Ocean Ale House, a premier bar in San Francisco offering a diverse selection of craft beers and delightful food pairings.
The Beehive
5.5 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
5.6 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
5.6 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.
Casements Bar
5.7 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
5.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite flavors at Bear Vs. Bull, a premier cocktail bar in San Francisco's Mission District.
Mission Bar
5.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife and local flavors at Mission Bar, a beloved spot in San Francisco's Mission District.
