At 1,017 acres, this urban park is far too large to experience in a single day, but it certainly is an enjoyable way to spend one. On average, 75,000 people visit Golden Gate Park over the weekend.
Facts: Remarkably the park, as lush as it is, was once covered with sand dunes ... William Hammond Hall provided the first design of Golden Gate Park and served as its first superintendent. His successor, John McLaren, began his tenure in 1887 and went on to oversee GGP for the next 50 years.
Built in 1896, it is a city landmark (No. 175) and was the home of John McLaren until he passed away in 1943. Today, it serves as a starting point for many visitors, providing maps of the park to help navigate the many gems that lie ahead. Other historic sites in GGP include Beach Chalet, Conservatory of Flowers, Dutch Windmill (North Windmill), and Murphy Windmill (South Windmill).
Onto the overview, in alphabetical order.
2. Bison Paddock
See bison, for real! First brought to the park in 1891 by the Park Commission, bison herds have been grazing in GGP for over 100 years. The current herd is comprised of 11 gentle creatures.
Photo by David Paul Morris; reprinted with permission of Getty Images.
Under construction. Set to re-open in Golden Gate Park in fall 2008, the museum and aquarium are temporarily located at 875 Howard Street. Soon though, they will return to GGP. Right now, the massive construction is the sight to see. In the end, this green project will hold 38,000 Steinhart Aquarium animals. The logistical process of transport and transition is what is captured in the ongoing exhibit "Aquarium Under Construction."
Photo reprinted with permission of Shu-Hwei Alpeche.
Re-opened in 2003, the Conservatory of Flowers houses a diverse collection of horticultural/floral displays from around the world. Divided into various rooms -- from the Highland Tropics to Aquatics -- the structure is designed to be singular and unified at the same time. It's an emotional, intellectual and inner experience for all. Open Tuesday-Sunday and major holidays, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m./$5 for adults, $3 for youths, seniors and students with ID, $1.50 for children 5-11, and free for 'lil visitors 4 and under.
Photo reprinted with permission of the M.H. de Young Museum.
Reopened in October 2005, this fine arts museum showcases a state-of-the-art facility with a stand-out custom copper facade. Keeping with the flow of the park, the de Young Museum is designed as merely one jewel in a crown of many. With the efforts put forth by the city to get the museum renovated, it's no surprise that it continues to be a hit with everyone -- both locals and visitors alike. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. On Fridays, until 8:45 p.m.
Photo reprinted with permission of Shu-Hwei Alpeche.
This humble garden could very well be missed, but shouldn't be. Located at the end of a hidden dirt road (near the Japanese Tea Garden and de Young Museum), the garden is filled with plants and flowers mentioned in William Shakespeare's works. Sit among the botanical collection or browse the stone walls of famous Bard quotes.
Photo reprinted with permission of Shu-Hwei Alpeche.
Originally part of the 1894 Midwinter Exposition, the garden is the oldest public Japanese garden in the state. Further developed by landscaper Makoto Hagiwara at the request of John McLaren, its highlights include cherry trees (blossoming in spring), a bronze Buddha, Buddhist pagoda, and Drum Bridge, which when viewed with its reflection in the water, looks to form a perfect circle.
Opened in 1887, the then "Children's Playground" was believed to be the first public playground in America. On July 14, 2007, it reoped as the Koret Children's Quarter and is magical as ever. With $3.8 million in renovations that reflect its natural surroundings, areas to explore highlight the ocean, forest, wetlands, and hills. The carousel, used during the 1938 World's Fair on Treasure Island, remains open for all.
9. McLaren Memorial Rhododendron Dell
Created for John McLaren, the devoted superintendant whose vision is imprinted in Golden Gate Park. Located near the Conservatory of Flowers, the dell is filled with Mr. McLaren's favorite flower and at its entrance, is his memorial statue.
Photo reprinted with permission of the National AIDS Memorial Grove.
Conceived in 1989, the grove was recognized as a national memorial in 1996. An example of civic beautification, the 7.5 acres of grove is maintained by volunteers and remains a place of remembrance and support, paying tribute to those who have been touched by AIDS. Located at the intersection of Bowling Green and Middle Drive East. Tours are given between 9 a.m. and noon the third Saturday of the month, March through October.
){kind=link}
){kind=link}
){kind=link}
){kind=link}
){kind=link}
){kind=link}
| 