Golden Gate Park is one of San Francisco’s most iconic and beloved urban green spaces—spanning over 1,000 acres and stretching more than three miles from the heart of the city all the way to the Pacific Ocean. Often compared to New York’s Central Park (though it’s actually larger), Golden Gate Park is a beautiful blend of manicured gardens, dense groves of trees, open meadows, and winding trails. It’s a place where you can paddle across Stow Lake, explore lush botanical gardens, admire Dutch windmills, or simply stretch out on the grass and watch the fog roll in.

What makes Golden Gate Park so special is its mix of nature, culture, and quirky charm. You’ll find world-class institutions like the de Young Museum and the California Academy of Sciences nestled within its borders, alongside hidden gems like the Japanese Tea Garden and the bison paddock. Whether you’re biking through eucalyptus-scented paths, catching a drum circle on a sunny Sunday, or just enjoying a quiet moment by one of its many ponds, the park feels like a little escape from the city—without ever leaving it.

Fun fact: did you know Golden Gate Park is actually roughly 20% larger than New York's Central Park?!

Pet-friendly: Yes! There are actually quite a few areas where dogs are allowed both on or off leash. See link below for more info!

Soft adventure: Yes, absolutely!

Seasonality: All seasons