The Conservatory of Flowers, located in Golden Gate Park, transports you from the city to a tropical rain forest, minus the exotic animals. The five galleries within the conservatory include the Lowland Tropics, Plotted Plants, Aquatic Plants, Highland Tropics and an ever changing special exhibit. The Conservatory of Flowers displays plants and flowers in its unique environment, offers guided school tours and is available to rent for corporate events and weddings. This gallery of flowers is a must see for any nature or horticulture lover.
Twin Peaks is the second highest point in San Francisco, comprising of two hills at a height of 922 feet. The Twin Boulevard is the only road that divides the peaks and goes to the summit. This hill has a number of tele-communication towers for radio and television transmission. The Sutro Tower is the most prominent tower amongst these and it is owned by the San Francisco Fire Department. The tower provides water to the local people and fire stations. This tower can be seen across the bay.
Constructed as a temporary attraction for the 1915 Pan-Pacific International Exhibition, Palace of Fine Arts continues to enchant the city. The original plaster, which made up the monument's exterior, has been gradually replaced, with funds raised by the Marina's residents who wanted to preserve a graceful part of their landscape. Swans in the adjoining lagoon glide by the soaring ocher-tinted colonnades and the imposing dome rigged with panels of centaurs and warriors. Stroll inside the dome and marvel at the uncanny acoustics, then enjoy a picnic lunch on one of the park benches to provide an unparalleled view of this gem.
Located within the Golden Gate Park is the enchanting Japanese Tea Garden. Its origins date back to 1894, when the garden was created as an exemplary exhibit of a Japanese Village for the California Midwinter International Exposition. Created by Japanese landscape architect Makoto Hagiwara, this sprawling tea garden proffers an unmissable opportunity to experience the ethereal beauty and tranquility of a true-blue Japanese-style verdant oasis. Several paths take you by an authentic pagoda, a monumental Buddha, and a miniature waterfall over an acutely arched bridge that no kid can resist. Overlooking the gardens, a koi-filled pond rests beside a Japanese-style teahouse, which covered with a cascade of wisteria in the month of springs. Followed by your stroll of the garden, do head to the gift shop to purchase souvenirs marking your visit to this paradisiacal spot.
Inside San Francisco's famous Golden Gate Park lies Stow Lake, a small recreation area complete with waterfall. Here you can rent paddle-boats, have a picnic, or just feed the ducks. Those who would rather remain on land can rent bikes and roller blades. Ride or skate through Golden Gate Park, then afterward stop by the concession stand for popcorn, hot dogs, and ice cream. Stow Lake is an ideal place to go to for a fun family day out of a romantic day date.
Located to the south of Golden Gate Point, this half-mile-long beach is one of the most popular attractions of the Presidio of San Francisco. There is much to do here, and the beach serves as an ideal destination for families and couples alike. Frolic on the golden sands which characterize the beach's expanse, go for a stroll along the waterfront or bask in the picturesque sights which abound here. Soak in the view of the Golden Gate Bridge in all its glory, or settle down for a picnic with loved ones. Those looking to explore the area can hike along the trails originating at the beach.
Stinson Beach makes for a fantastic day trip, located just about 20 miles (32.18 kilometers) from San Francisco proper. The small town, connecting Point Reyes National Seashore and Golden Gate National Recreation Area, features glorious sandy beaches and a big shiny, blue piece of the Pacific Ocean. Summers and other pleasant days find Stinson Beach busy with locals as well as tourists relaxing, picnicking and enjoying the beach in general - it is, in fact, one of the highest ranked swimming beaches in Northern California. Featuring panoramic views, hiking trails, fishing facilities, picnic areas, swimming facilities and lots more, Stinson Beach truly has a lot to offer.