For over 150 years, Golden Gate Park has been a public outdoor space worth spending some time in. Of course, a trip to San Francisco should be filled with all the sights and sounds of the incredible Golden City. So, according to that logic, a stop at Golden Gate Park is kind of a must. Even if you're running short on time, this incredible national park shouldn't be cut from the itinerary. With multiple museums, gardens, events, fantastic views, and so much more, why wouldn't you want to visit this lush, fun-filled, and downright magical place every time you're in town? That said, if you're still on the fence, here are ten reasons you should visit Golden Gate Park in San Francisco.
10 California Academy Of Sciences
One of the main attractions within Golden Gate Park is the California Academy of Sciences, which is "an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum," all rolled into one. Visitors here will find dozens of wonderful exhibits, educational programs, and even Penguin and Pj sleepovers for families (Do fur-babies count as kids? Asking for a friend). Besides all of this, this academic everything bagel also has Nightlife activities every Thursday from 6 to 10 pm. The Nightlife program offers visitors more than a few series to explore and grants them after-hours access to all the academy exhibits.
9 San Francisco Botanical Garden
For visitors looking to stop and smell the roses, they absolutely can at the San Francisco Botanical Garden located within the Golden Gate Park. Besides being a charming outdoor space, this botanical garden definitely knows how to put on a good show. In fact, there are always a variety of events happening here, including the Flower Piano (at Sunset and night), free piano lessons, GardenFest, Plant Sales, Bean Sprout Family Days, and more. This gorgeous space is even available for weddings, concerts, and other private events.
8 De Young Museum
As previously mentioned, this beloved San Francisco park has several museums, including the de Young Museum. Here park goers can indulge in a bit of contemporary culture and fine art. Plus, with ongoing exhibits like The Ramses the Great and the Gold of the Pharaohs, stopping by this museum just makes sense. There are also a host of other notable exhibits that showcase African Art, Oceanic Art, Photography, Textile Art, and so much more. Being able to visit this particular museum alone is reason enough to head to Golden Gate Park.
7 Bison Paddock
That's right; this beautiful and expansive park is home to more than a few species of wildlife, including a herd of American bison. Located near the park's west end, these magnificent mammals can be seen out and about, traipsing through meadows and, you know, just living life. Since 1892, American bison have roamed this park along with bears, sheep, elk, and deer. Of course, now, most of the other wildlife has been relocated to San Francisco Zoo. But the herds of American bison haven't gone anywhere—making them yet another reason you should come to check out this splendid place.
6 Events & Festivals
If you ever thought this incredibly large outdoor space would make an absolutely wonderful concert, event, and festival venue—trust, you're not alone. The Golden Gate Park hosts annual music festivals like the popular Hardly Strictly Bluegrass in early October (there is no admission fee for this particular event). In addition to this fantastic outdoor party, this park also hosts the Outside Lands, another amazing annual festival lasting for three days and includes tasty eats, local brews, art exhibits, comedy shows, and music.
5 The Conservatory Of Flowers
For park-goers who love all things nature-related, the chance to explore the Conservatory of Flowers and its countless rare and endangered plants should not be missed. Visitors can marvel at the five galleries that showcase different and diverse ecosystems—The Highland Tropics, Aquatic Plants, Low Land Tropic, Plotted Plants, and the West Gallery. So stop by and see what flowers are currently in bloom. This peaceful and thriving spot within the park is truly a rare treat and just one more reason to make the trip down to Golden Gate Park.
4 The Japanese Tea Garden
In addition to the phenomenal botanical garden and the Conservatory of Flowers, parkgoers can make their way through the legendary Japanese Tea Garden. Established in 1894, this particular Japanese Tea Garden is actually the oldest in the US. Not only has this garden been meticulously maintained over the years to near perfection, but it also highlights the incredible beauty of traditional Japanese outdoor spaces. This lush garden has serene waterfalls, architectural wonders, a Zen garden, and a tea house that's been serving up fortune cookies and aromatic teas since 1914–what more is there to say?
3 Exploring Is Easy
The Golden Gate Park is far from small, and exploring this outdoor paradise on foot will take some time. But this doesn't have to be a deterrent as visitors can see every corner of the 1,000+ acre park on a bike or Segway. So there are really no excuses. There are a couple of rental companies for both modes of transportation located on the outskirts of the park. Plus, there are guided tours available, so you can enjoy this wondrous place with a guide who can show you all the hidden gems and answer any questions you may have.
2 The SkyStar Wheel
For park visitors looking for another way to see this expansive park and enjoy some of the best areal views around, the 150-foot tall observation SkyStar Wheel should definitely suffice. From this local-fair style ride, you can take in all of the park and marvel at San Fran's memorizing cityscape. But that's not all; riders can also see stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. That said, overall, it's a short and pleasant ride that's definitely worth it. So hop on and get ready to take some amazing photos and create some lifelong memories.
1 An Abundance Of Outdoor Recreation
Last but not least, Golden Gate Park is definitely a recreational haven for outdoorsy types. In fact, just about every activity, you can think of, you can do here. Boat lovers can enjoy an hourly chartered 'fun boat' at Stow Lake, take a pedal boat out for a spin, rent a classic rowboat, or snag an electric boat. There is also fishing available, dog parks, archery, horseback riding, lawn bowling, picnic areas, hiking, golf, and more. So if you're looking for a major attraction in San Fran that has it all and then some, this is the place.