The first thing that comes to mind when thinking about San Francisco is the famous Golden Gate Bridge. It’s the most popular icon representing the city. No wonder San Francisco attracts numerous tourists from all over the world. But, as a loyal neighbor of this vibrant city, I believe there is more to this place than the conventional tourist attractions. Beyond the Golden Gate Bridge, crooked Lombard Street, and the Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco is known for its affection towards nature. Though recognized as a metropolitan financial hub, this city has miles of parks and trails to its credit. A halfday stay hotel from HotelsByDay helps visitors relax during one of the city’s most thrilling adventures: Golden Gate State Park.
Lace up those hiking shoes
Golden Gate State Park is spread out over 1,000 acres, and visiting the park demands an entire day. One can spend an exciting daycation exploring all this space has to offer. But, if you are worried about aching legs, you can thank me later for the following advice. Explore major attractive spots of this park through a guided Segway tour. Let Segway wheels do the work. Not just another typical park with lawn, trees, plants and play area, Golden Gate State Park has many activities for the entire family. From the museum to the gardens, art exhibits to picnic spots, cultural center to waterfalls and lakes, this park buzzes with activities year-round. Besides, this park is an epicenter for various events such as charity marathons and live shows.
Making the most of the adventure with a halfday stay hotel
In order to explore this huge park, plan a daycation with a halfday stay hotel. The day booking hotel platform of HotelsbyDay enables folks to book a hotel room for few hours to rest and relax. Golden Gate State Park is one of the largest parks in United States joining the league of Central Park, New York and Lincoln Park, Chicago. It is also one of the most frequently visited parks of the country. It attracts both local folks and tourists in great numbers.
As this park is spread over a huge area, you can easily spend an entire day from dawn to dusk. But, since this park has many locations that are worth exploring, it is important to plan your day according to your interests. As a regular of this historic park, let me help map out the perfect daycation. A halfday stay hotel helps make it the best outing ever.
The best of Golden Gate State Park
Stow Lake: A perfect spot to relax while enjoying calm waters, Stow Lake brings you close to nature. It offers amazing boating experiences with its wide options of pedal, electric, and rowing boats. After enjoying the water, you can hike on the trails that run along its borders. And finally when this adventure makes you hungry, you can either enjoy a packed lunch at the picnic tables or grab a bite at their on-site café.
California Academy of Sciences: After some fun, head over to this innovative and natural history museum for its display of planetary, historic, and aquatic specimens. You can see stars at the planetarium, attend lectures at the Naturist Center and visit rain forests of the world within an enclosed dome. The academy charges are $29.95 for adults and $19.95 for children under 12 years.
Golden Gate Park Playground- Koret Children’s Quarter: If you are traveling with kids, visit this unique playground. The play area houses swings, slides, merry-go rounds, a carousel, and many other attractive rides for kids. Grassy fields and open areas for ideal for group games.
Flowers, flowers, everywhere
Conservatory of Flowers: A historic landmark that houses some of the best varieties of flowers, it will fill your hearts with joy. Amazing architecture and landscape mark the highlights of this building that is full of exotic and colorful blooms all year round.
Japanese Tea Garden: Visit this garden for its relaxing and soothing ambiance with lanterns, waterfalls, and statues. The sweet smell of exotic flowers will accompany your walk through this picturesque garden. Sip tea at the Japanese Tea House, shop souvenirs at the gift shop and meditate in the relaxing ambiance to carry happy memories back home. Japanese Tea Garden charges $6 entry fees for adult residents and $8 for non-residents.
Golden Gate Park windmills and tulips: The Golden Gate Park has two historic windmills, the north Dutch Windmill and south Murphy Windmill. While their purpose was to pump water in the olden days, they stand as historic landmarks today. Close to the north mill is a tulip garden that looks beautiful in full bloom from February until March. After this visit, you can head over to nearby Beach Chalet to dine.
While these were some of the famous spots of Golden Gate State Park, there are several other attractions to look forward to. It’s always worth another daycation!
Book your halfday stay hotel in San Francisco and enjoy this tourist attraction right in the heart of the city.