San Francisco, CA

Within its 1,000-plus acres, Golden Gate Park contains some of San Francisco most famous and most visited attractions; but there is still plenty to see that you might not know about yet. Read through our list of Golden Gate Park's hidden treasures and do some exploring for yourself.

1237 John F Kennedy Dr
San Francisco, CA

Why visit a home on the range when you can see real buffalo roam right here in Golden Gate Park? See these majestic creatures in an open, safe habitat along John F. Kennedy Blvd. The herd has grown recently; in 2020, five new baby bison were added to the group.

1691 John F Kennedy Dr
San Francisco, CA

Standing at 75 feet tall, the north windmill was originally constructed in 1902 to pump water. Today it’s known for the thousands of colorful tulips that surround the historic landmark in the northwest corner of the park. The windmill is worth a visit anytime, but tulip time (February and March) is the best. A second windmill, the Murphy Windmill, is located in the southwest corner of the park.

670 Kezar Dr
San Francisco, CA

From 1946 to 1970, the San Francisco 49ers called Kezar Stadium home. Today, Kezar remains a multi-purpose stadium that hosts collegiate football games, and other sporting events, like local lacrosse, soccer, and track and field teams. There's also an eight-lane track open for public use.

San Francisco, CA

Located at the center of the museum district of the park, the Music Concourse was originally built for the festivities of the 1894 Midwinter Fair. Check out free performances of the Golden Gate Park Band on Sundays from April to October, and keep an eye out for other major headliners. Don’t forget to say "hi" to Ludwig Van Beethoven, Ulysses S. Grant, and the other statues of historical figures that line the concourse.

San Francisco, CA

In the 1930s, colorful lights were installed to illuminate this beautiful waterfall, giving it its name. The falls greet visitors as they enter and exit the park near Crossover Drive. If you’re up for a hike, check out the Prayerbook Cross near the top of the waterfall. Dating back to 1894, the Celtic-style landmark is the tallest in the park.

San Francisco, CA

A pristine man-made lake located in the heart of the park where you can rent a boat from the Stow Lake Boathouse. The surrounding views and grounds are gorgeous. The boathouse café sells food, snacks and drinks to keep you going throughout your park adventure. It’s a lovely place to spend the afternoon.

San Francisco, CA

Situated in the middle of Stow Lake and measuring 430-feet-high, the island is the highest point in the park. Take the Rustic Bridge or the Roman Bridge on either side and hike to the top to see a stunning view of Mt. Tamalpais and the Golden Gate Bridge. Don’t forget to meditate at the Golden Gate Bridge Pavilion, a Chinese temple-like structure that was a gift from the city of Taipei to commemorate early Chinese settlers. Take the southern bridge to get there. You may never want to leave.

240 John F Kennedy Dr
San Francisco, CA

Watch Golden Gate Park's Peacock Meadow transform into an enchanted forest of otherworldly shapes and ever changing light. “Entwine,” by San Francisco artist Charles Gadeken, creates a whimsical wonderland where visitors can explore paths and sit under a grove of three entwined sculptural trees while practicing social distancing.

1 Bowl Dr
San Francisco, CA

The 150-foot, illuminated SkyStar Observation Wheel in Golden Gate Park is ready to ride. The wheel, which provides riders with sweeping views from the ocean to downtown San Francisco, celebrates Golden Gate Park’s 150th anniversary.