With such a great landscape, San Francisco is able to offer a variety of outdoor areas for relaxing, recreation, hiking, and more. Spending time outside here offers you a lot of things to do and a lot of great views. You may be busy visiting the many amazing attractions while here, but don't miss some of these great places of interest:
Golden Gate National Recreation Area
- One of the world's largest urban national parks, The Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) offers over 75,000 acres of land and water and encompasses 59 miles of bay and ocean shoreline. The mission of GGNRA is to preserve area north and south of the Golden Gate Bridge and inspire and educate people about the surrounding areas.
- There are several historical attractions here, as well as archaeological sites, military forts, cultural exhibits, and natural resources.
- There are also 19 different ecosystems here, and over 80 rare and endangered species. At GGNRA you can hike, walk, jog, bike, camp, picnic, and tour some of the centers of activity. Within GGNRA is Muir Woods National Monument, which is described as the best tree-lover's monument in America. GGNRA is one of the most-visited national parks in America, most likely because of its wide offerings and many different activities. So plan to spend a few days exploring this great outdoor world!
San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park
- With an impressive fleet of national historic landmark sea vessels, this park offers a visitor center, museum, library/research facility, and other educational opportunities. Located at Fisherman's Wharf, you can board actual ships, learn about shipbuilding, and take tours. High-tech exhibits offer you a fun opportunity to learn about the diverse past of San Francisco's maritime heritage. People of all ages will love this place.
Other Parks in the San Francisco Area
- Take a ferry to Angel Island State Park, which sits in the middle of San Francisco Bay, and offers a unique view of the San Francisco skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge. Here you have the opportunity to hike, bike, beach comb, explore Mt. Livermore, or to take a tour of some of the historical sites. Maps are available when you arrive.
- Within urban San Francisco, there is a gorgeous park that offers picnicking, concerts, waterfalls, and play areas. Yerba Buena Gardens is an escape from the city, which you can have without actually leaving the city!
- Or visit Lands End, a collection of hiking trails that stretches from the Golden Gate Bridge to the Legion of Honor and offers amazing coastal views.
