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San Francisco Botanical Garden: A Living Museum in Golden Gate Park

Explore a world of plants in the heart of San Francisco's Golden Gate Park; a serene escape for nature lovers and families.

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Escape the city bustle within the serene 55-acre San Francisco Botanical Garden, nestled in Golden Gate Park. Discover over 9,000 plant species from around the globe, including rare and endangered varieties, in themed gardens that offer something new to explore year-round.

A brief summary to San Francisco Botanical Garden

  • 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 early (7:30-9am) for free admission and a peaceful start to your day.
  • San Francisco residents get free admission with proof of residency.
  • Check the garden's website for events like Flower Piano or free tours.
  • Dress in layers, as San Francisco weather can be unpredictable.
  • Download a map or grab a printed copy at the entrance for self-guided exploration.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown San Francisco, the N-Judah light rail is a convenient option. Take the N-Judah to the 9th Avenue and Irving Street stop. From there, it's a short walk north into Golden Gate Park; the Botanical Garden's main entrance will be on your left. A single ride on Muni costs $3.00.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Golden Gate Park, follow signs towards the Japanese Tea Garden and California Academy of Sciences. The Botanical Garden is located near these landmarks, just west of the Music Concourse. Walk along the paved paths, enjoying the park's scenery, until you reach the Garden's main entrance.

  • Ride Share/Taxi

    Request a ride to the San Francisco Botanical Garden's main entrance at 1199 9th Avenue. Note that traffic within Golden Gate Park can be heavy, especially on weekends. A typical ride from downtown San Francisco will cost $16-$30.

Unlock the Best of San Francisco Botanical Garden

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Discover more about San Francisco Botanical Garden

The San Francisco Botanical Garden, a verdant oasis in Golden Gate Park, invites visitors to explore the world's diverse flora across 55 acres. Originally conceived in the 1880s, the garden took shape in 1926 thanks to a bequest from Helene Strybing, and opened in 1940. Since then, it has grown to house nearly 9,000 plant species from around the globe, with a focus on magnolias, high-elevation palms, conifers, and cloud forest species. The garden features numerous themed collections, including the Mesoamerican Cloud Forest, established in 1984, and the unique Southeast Asian Cloud Forest. Visitors can explore the Arthur L. Menzies Garden of California Native Plants, the Redwood Grove, and the tranquil Moon Viewing Garden. The Garden of Fragrance offers an aromatic experience, while the Ancient Plant Garden showcases living fossils from prehistoric times. The San Francisco Botanical Garden is more than just a beautiful space; it's a living museum and a center for education and conservation. The Helen Crocker Russell Library of Horticulture provides resources for research, and the Garden Bookstore offers a chance to take a piece of the garden home. Docent-led tours and family events provide deeper insights into the garden's ecosystems. With something always in bloom, the garden offers a unique experience with each visit.

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