Here are a few beautiful San Francisco parks you won’t want to miss.
If you are moving into a San Francisco apartment or planning to visit the city, you’ll want to take advantage of some of the area’s wonderful parks and green spaces. Here are a few beautiful San Francisco parks you won’t want to miss.
Golden Gate Park
Larger than Central Park in New York, this park has many features that will attract San Francisco residents and visitors alike. Golden Gate Park is home to the California Academy of Sciences, de Young Museum and the San Francisco Botanical Gardens, to name just a few of the park’s attractions.
There is plenty of room to roam the park: just ask the herd of bison that calls the park home. (Don’t worry; they stick to their paddock). There are also many different activities you can engage in, from enjoying one of the many freshwater lakes to playing a round of disc golf. No matter what your pleasure, you are bound to find a good time outdoors at Golden Gate Park.
The Presidio
A former military base, the Presidio can be found at the northern end of San Francisco. The park is not just a green space; it also surrounds many businesses and a residential area, as well, forming its own neighborhood. And the Presidio boasts a fantastic view of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Yerba Buena Gardens
Located in San Francisco’s artsy SoMa district, Yerba Buena Gardens is a green oasis in the middle of a bustling urban area. There are many pieces of public art to enjoy in this San Francisco park. One of the main features is the memorial to Martin Luther King, Jr., whose statue is seated behind a beautiful, 50-foot waterfall.
Alamo Square
Alamo Square, located in the Haight-Ashbury area, is one of the most recognizable spots in San Francisco. Its famous “Painted Ladies” Victorian houses have been seen in many postcards, movies — and in the opening credits of the sitcom “Full House.” Alamo Square offers a nice view of the city, including a good look at the Beaux Arts dome of City Hall.
Candlestick Park
Candlestick Park in the Bayview Heights area of San Francisco is not really a park. It is the outdoor stadium which is currently home to football’s San Francisco 49ers. The Stick’s position on the western side of San Francisco Bay makes windy weather for games and outdoor shows in the venue. The Beatles famously played their last public performance here in 1966.
Alcatraz
Alcatraz Island isn’t just a former prison; it’s a legitimate San Francisco park. You can come for the tour of the prison facilities and hear the history of the famous prisoners, but that is not all this park has to offer. There are gardens to visit and wildlife to encounter. In fact, the island has become a sanctuary to several species of birds, including the snowy egret.
Washington Square Park
San Francisco’s Washington Square Park is a wonderful spot to while away an afternoon people-watching and taking in the sights of the bustling city. The park is situated near a selection of authentic Italian food purveyors on nearby Grant Avenue. And you can’t miss the twin spires of beautiful Saints Peter and Paul Church towering above the trees.
Photo Credit: Shutterstock / JPL Designs
