No trip to San Francisco is complete without a stroll through one of its many parks. Despite being the second densest city in the country, San Francisco’s open spaces are abundant, with loads of room to stretch out, hike and explore. So, I asked one of our friends in the hospitality business to be our guide to San Francisco’s parks.
Featured photo: Mission Dolores Park by Francisco Delgado, Golden Gate Park and skateboarder at United Nations Plaza courtesy of San Francisco Recreation and Parks.
Javier Caelles has been a concierge at the Hilton San Francisco since 2006. Born and raised in Barcelona, he moved to SF where he got his master’s degree in information systems. Javier worked as an IT consultant, but after the dot-com crash ventured into the hospitality industry where he found his passion, helping guests discover the best of this incredible city, and loving it.
Here’s what Javier has to say about San Francisco’s parks, voluntourism and the great outdoors.
Golden Gate Park is one of the most famous urban parks in the country, let alone San Francisco, but what are some other parks that stand out in the city?
San Francisco has many amazing parks besides Golden Gate Park. Dolores Park offers fantastic city views and community events, while the Presidio has lovely trails with views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Alamo Square Park features the seven most famous Victorian houses in the city, and Lands End is perfect for rugged coastal trails and stunning ocean vistas. These parks highlight the beauty and history of San Francisco, making them ideal for relaxation and exploration.
Best spots for kids to run around?
There are many great spots where kids can run around and play. Golden Gate Park is a great choice, with its wide meadows, playgrounds, and car-free paths perfect for running. The Presidio’s Tunnel Tops features open green spaces and a nature-inspired play area. Yerba Buena Gardens offers an interactive play area known as the Children’s Garden. Crissy Field has sand and open spaces, while Mission Bay Kids’ Park has a nature exploration zone with willow structures and log sculptures for imaginative play.
What about somewhere for a romantic stroll?
Lovers Lane in the Presidio is a lovely place for a romantic walk. The area offers a nice mix of nature and history. The trail, one of the oldest in the Presidio, is peaceful, short, and easy to walk, with tall eucalyptus trees lining the path. The name dates back to the late 1800s when U.S. soldiers used it to visit their lovers and family. Near Lovers’ Lane, it’s worth checking the Wood Line, an outdoor piece of art by Andy Goldsworthy.
Where to go for hikers/walkers who want to feel the burn or see great views?
San Francisco has great hikes with stunning views. The Lands End Trail, with steep stairs, coastal cliffs and Golden Gate panoramas, is a must. Twin Peaks offers a short but steep climb for a 360-degree city view. Mount Davison provides a good leg workout in a forest setting, as it’s the city’s highest point. And last, the Batteries to Bluffs Trail which takes visitors along historic gun batteries and cliffs bordering the Pacific Ocean.
Does SF have any “voluntourism” opportunities, or ways to get involved or educated about its environment?
San Francisco has many voluntourism opportunities, allowing you to give back while exploring the city. Surfrider Foundation organizes beach cleanups. The San Francisco Baykeeper focuses on protecting local water channels. For those interested in urban farming, Alemany Farm offers hands-on experiences with sustainable practices.
Additionally, the Exploratorium and the California Academy of Sciences provide educational programs on local environmental issues, making them ideal for learning and engagement during your visit. Voluntourism is a unique way to experience San Francisco beyond traditional tourist attractions.
And lastly, what are some “bucket list” sights or activities in Golden Gate Park?
Golden Gate Park is a wonderful urban oasis. Stroll through the Japanese Tea Garden, where you can enjoy a cup of matcha while relaxing by the koi ponds and charming pagodas. The California Academy of Sciences features an indoor rainforest and a famous albino alligator. Don’t miss the Bison Paddock, where you can see real bison. The de Young Museum offers excellent art collections and stunning city views. Nature enthusiasts will love exploring the Conservatory of Flowers and the Botanical Garden.
