Golden Gate Park is a large urban pak, located in San Francisco, consisting of 1,017 acres of public grounds. It is 20% larger than Central Park in New York. With 13 million visitors annually, Golden Gate is the third most visited park in the United States after Central Park in New York and Lincoln Park in Chicago. The park is free to visit during the day, but some popular attractions charge admission. The park is filled with gardens, museums, art, flowers, trees, lakes, birds and wildlife.
Conservatory of Flowers
One of the world’s largest conservatories built of traditional wood and glass panes. There are close to 2,000 plant species decorating the exhibits and displays. The conservatory has several exhibits including the lowland tropics (tropical rainforest plants,) aquatic plants and highland tropics. Admission is $7.00 for adults, $5.00 for seniors, students and youths 12-17, $2.00 for children 5-11 and children under 4 are free. ON THE FIRST TUESDAY OF EVERY MONTH, THE CONSERVATORY IS FREE TO EVERYONE. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 10 am to 4:30. Closed on Mondays.
(On JFK Drive in Golden Gate Park) 415.666.7001
Buffalo herd in Golden Gate Park
In 1890, a bison cow and a bison bull were transported from the Great Plains to Golden Gate Park. Over the years, the herd has grown and the herd happily resides in Golden Gate Park. Now, there are more than 100 bison residing in the park. An interesting fact is that bison are known to reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour.
The Buffalo Paddock is located off JFK Drive in the northwest corner of the Park.
California Academy of Sciences
The Academy is one of the largest and most eco-friendly natural history museums in the world. The academy includes an aquarium, planetarium, natural history museum and 3D theatre. Admission is $29.95 for adults, $24.95 for students, seniors, and children aged 12-17. Children aged 4-11 is $19.95, under age 3 is free. There may also be some free days offered in October, 2013. For further details check the website www.calacademy.org/visit/
located at 55 Music Concourse Drive – 415.379.8000
De Young Museum
The de Young is a landmark museum showcasing collections of American art from the 17th through the 21st centuries, international contemporary art, textiles and costumes, and art from the Americas, the Pacific and Africa. When you reach the Observation Floor, you will find yourself 144 feet in the air. This offers some of the best panoramic views of the city, including impressive views of Golden Gate Park, San Francisco neighborhoods and the Golden Gate Bridge. Admission to the de Young includes same-day general admission to the Legion of Honor. Admission: Adults $10.00, Seniors $7.00, College students $6.00. Free for children 13 and younger. Hours are 9:30 to 5:00 Tuesday-Sunday. Closed on Mondays.
located at 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive in Golden Gate park – 415.750.3600
Japanese Tea Garden
The scenery of and surrounding the Japanese Tea House fosters meditation and relaxation. Find your peace within !! Sip a cup of tea while exploring the lush landscapes, colorful blooms and striking architecture.
located on the corner of Tea Garden at MLK Drive, within Golden Gate Park – 415.752.4227