Picture a place in San Francisco with beautiful gardens, interesting museums, and fun spaces–all in one central location. Golden Gate Park is this charming spot, offering something for every visitor. 

This vibrant setting covers a 1,017-acre coastal strip in the city’s core. We are pleased to be conveniently located less than a 10-minute drive away. Read on to discover what ranks this park among the top attractions in San Francisco.

Outdoor Adventures

Whether you’re hoping to take a relaxing stroll through Golden Gate Park or engage in a sport, we have you covered. The Grove Inn serves as a base for visitors to experience all such activities. Check out these popular nature-based ventures compiled for your outdoor getaway in Golden Gate Park.

San Francisco Botanical Garden

Boasting over 8,000 kinds of flora, the San Francisco Botanical Garden includes three distinct landscaped gardens. Each offers a unique experience amid a variety of rare and exotic plants.

• Japanese Tea Garden: The Golden Gate Park Japanese Tea Garden reflects the design of a real traditional Japanese garden, complete with koi ponds, stepping stone paths, and pagodas. For a closer look at the garden’s layout, check out the Japanese Tea Garden map to view its sights and amenities.

• Conservatory of Flowers: The Conservatory of Flowers has a diversity of vegetation, ranging from aquatic plants to highland tropical flowers. In addition, it is stationed in a landmark building known as the oldest public wood-and-glass conservatory in North America.

• San Francisco Botanical Garden: A combination of landscaped gardens and open spaces characterize the San Francisco Botanical Garden. In preparation for your trip to the garden, you can view the seasonal and year-round highlights in the Visitor Information and Map of the area.
  

Golden Gate Park Trails 

What better way to admire Golden Gate Park—the third most visited park in the United States—than to walk along the trails that wind throughout it? Here are a few of the most popular hikes, which range in difficulty.

Golden Gate Park Loop

Difficulty: Easy

Length: 6.9 miles
Golden Gate Park Loop is ranked one of the top trails in the park for its birding, running, and biking opportunities. Open year-round, the route takes roughly two and a half hours.

Stow Lake and Strawberry Hill Loop

Difficulty: Easy

Length: 2.3 miles
Primarily used for running and walking, the Stow Lake and Strawberry Hill Loop take less than an hour to complete. Dogs are permitted on this path if they are leashed. 

Golden Gate Park Perimeter Loop

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 7.3 miles
The Golden Gate Park Perimeter Loop showcases San Francisco’s best wildflowers and lakes. Expect to reach the end of this loop within about two and a half hours. 

Hellman Hollow Picnic Area

Got an event to host? No problem! Hellman Hollow Picnic Area can serve as the perfect setting for your event or party. A total of nine picnic areas and tables are provided for visitors at the park. A neighboring picnic spot called Lindley Meadow can also offer the space for a party. 

Historic Treasures and Museums

Yes, even history enthusiasts can enjoy Golden Gate Park! A collection of timeless heritage sites and exhibitions through San Francisco museums are featured here. Discover what draws tourists from all around the world to the museums of Golden Gate Park.

De Young Museum

There’s something for everyone in San Francisco and we mean it! At the De Young Museum, visitors can experience everything from fashion exhibitions and family tours to galleries of American culture and seasonal fairs. Check out our page on the De Young Museum and discover the fine art scene in the heart of the Bay Area.

Portals of the Past

Portals of the Past offers a unique experience through an impressive display of mansion ruins. Standing as a memorial of the 1906 San Francisco Earthquake, this site takes visitors through a glimpse of the city’s history.

The history of Portals of the Past has fascinated tourists for years. The preserved portico was relocated to the park in 1909, symbolizing the city's resilience and rebirth after the unforeseen disaster. Complete your San Francisco getaway by visiting this remarkable reminder of San Francisco's ability to overcome and rebuild in the face of adversity.

Explore San Francisco While Staying at The Grove Inn

Every corner of Golden Gate Park promises a unique experience. Looking for a place to unwind after a day at the park? Book your stay at The Grove Inn for a convenient home base as you explore San Francisco. 

Our stunning location in the heart of urban artistry and culture is an oasis for travelers searching for respite and relaxation. View our website for more information on nearby attractions and local favorites that may pique your interest. We look forward to welcoming you and hope your visit is memorable and comfortable.