Located in the heart of Golden Gate Park, the San Francisco Botanical Garden is a lush 55-acre living museum showcasing over 8,500 species of plants from across the globe. Formerly known as the Strybing Arboretum, this remarkable oasis offers something for everyone—from cloud forest curiosities to serene redwood groves—set against the backdrop of San Francisco’s unique coastal climate.

Recommended For

Plant Enthusiasts: Explore cloud forest collections, magnolias, succulents, and rare international species.

Families: Enjoy hands-on learning at Bean Sprouts Family Days, story times, and summer camps.

Garden Wanderers: Stroll through peaceful themed gardens with fragrant blooms and unique landscapes.

What to Expect

  • Location: 1199 9th Ave, San Francisco, CA 94122
  • Size: 55 acres within Golden Gate Park
  • Entrances: Main Gate (9th Ave & Lincoln Way) and Friend/North Gate (MLK Jr. Dr.)
  • Admission: Free for members; general admission applies to non-members

Highlights

  • 8,500+ Plant Species: Including cloud forest flora from Southeast Asia and the Andes
  • Specialty Gardens: From a Redwood Grove and Ancient Plant Garden to a Moon-viewing Garden
  • Fragrance Garden: Created for visually impaired visitors—engage the senses through touch and smell
  • Historic Stones: Beds crafted from a 12th-century Spanish monastery

Plant Collections

  • Regional Gardens:
    • Mediterranean, Australian, Chilean, Cape Province, New Zealand, and California Native Gardens
  • Cloud Forests:
    • Mesoamerican and Southeast Asian forests
    • Andean Forests
  • Themed Collections:
    • Succulent Garden
    • Dwarf Conifer Garden
    • Exhibition and Montane Tropic Gardens

History & Conservation

  • 1880s: Planning begins under Park Supervisor John McClaren
  • 1937: Planting begins after decades of funding delays
  • 1940: Official public opening
  • 1955: San Francisco Botanical Garden Society is founded
  • Today: The Society oversees educational programs, library services, monthly plant sales, and fundraising

Educational Programs

  • Children’s Programs:
    • Bean Sprouts Family Days
    • Interactive exhibits in the Children’s Garden
    • Preschool and K–12 educational experiences
    • Summer camps and youth volunteer programs
  • Adult Learning:
    • Botanical art workshops
    • Birdwatching and garden tours
  • Family Events:
    • Story Times, Family Walks, and a Summer Reading Club

What Makes It Unique

  • Microclimate Magic: Mild temperatures, fog, and wet winters allow for high-elevation tropical species
  • Cloud Forest Collection: One of the most diverse in the world, featuring species from Central and South America and Southeast Asia
  • Signature Magnolias: The Garden’s Magnolia collection is globally recognized and stunning when in bloom

Contact & Website

San Francisco Botanical Garden
Address: 1199 9th Ave, San Francisco, CA 94122
Phone: 415-661-1316
Website: gggp.org/san-francisco-botanical-garden

Plan Your Trip