Golden Gate Park in May is filled with flowers, birds, Mother’s Day celebrations, and plenty of opportunities to explore main attractions for free. This month, you’ll have to do a bit of careful planning so you don’t miss out on an exciting event. By the end of May 2012, you might feel like a yo-yo, which will certainly come in handy of you attend the unique competition held at Spreckels Temple of Music.

de Young Museum Free Admission Day – May 1

It’s that time of the month again…when you can browse the collections of American art from the 17th through the 20th centuries, and art of the native Americas, Africa, and the Pacific – for free. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore de Young Museum on its First Tuesdays Free Admission Day from 9:30 a.m. to 5:15 p.m.

Conservatory of Flowers Free Admission Day – May 1

Avoid the usual $7 charge at the Conservatory of Flowers on May 1, and enjoy a day with the flowers, trees and other plants for free on the first Tuesday of every month. The hours for this attraction are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with the last entry at 4 p.m.

California Academy of Sciences Neighborhood Free Days – May 4 to 6

The residents of certain neighborhoods can take advantage of free admission to the California Academy of Sciences from May 4 to May 6, 2012. This weekend, if you live in Parkside or Sunset (zip codes 94116 or 94122), it is free to enter the museum. Don’t forget to bring a valid photo ID with proof of residency, which may include a driver’s license or state ID card, Photo ID plus utility bill, or Photo ID with dated magazine label.

Walk MS 2012: San Francisco – May 6

Starting at 8 a.m., Walk MS will help raise money to help bring awareness and fund research treatments regarding multiple sclerosis. Registration and check-in for the event begins at 8 with the actual start time held at 9 a.m. The event starts and finishes at the Band Shell in Golden Gate Park, where participants can choose between a 1-mile and 5k route. For more information, you can call 1(800)-344-4867 or email dina.bartello@nmss.org.

Free Roses at Annual “Mother’s Day Rose Show 2012″ – May 13

The San Francisco Rose Society has a special day planned for rose lovers or someone looking for a sweet freebie for Mom. At the Hall of Flowers, you can view an array of lovely blooms on display in the exhibition hall – from 12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. The event is free, and at the end, you can pick up free roses after the show comes to a close at 4 p.m.

International Migratory Bird Day at the Academy – May 7 to 13

There’s a celebration taking flight at the California Academy of Sciences, as they offer a range of programs, educational activities, and events centered on the feathered creatures of the animal kingdom. A week-long extravaganza is planned for the 20th anniversary of International Migratory Bird Day (IMBD). The Academy will host an array of bird-related events, including:

• Chat with a Scientist (May 9) – 1 p.m. – A discussion with Allen Fish, director of the Golden Gate Raptor Observatory.

• How to Draw Birds Workshop (May 11) – 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. – Join artist John Muir Laws to learn tricks on how to draw heads, wings and feet of birds. Reservations are $25 per person. Space is limited.

• Bird Walks to Stow Lake (May 12) – 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. – Enjoy a variety of birds around us with Golden Gate Audubon. Each walk is limited to 25 people on a first-come, first-served basis. Don’t forget your binoculars.

• Birding on the Living Roof (May 12) – 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. – Join Golden Gate Audubon Society to observe birds that frequent the Living Roof of the Academy.

• Chat with a Scientist (May 12 ) – 2:30 p.m. – A discussion with Marie Strassburger, Migratory Bird Chief, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.

• Organizations Making a Difference (May 12) – 11:30 a.m.to 2:30 p.m. – A chance to meet local organizations related to bird conservation and research, such as the SF Planning Department.

Plantosaurus Rex at Conservatory of Flowers – May 10

The Conservatory of Flowers has an event that is sure to please local nature lovers and dinosaur enthusiasts. From 10 am – 4 pm, you will get a chance to experience the flora and fauna that made up the prehistoric and ancient days of the world. A timeline will illustrate the plant evolution of the Jurassic period, as well as offer a guest appearance by a T.Rex. All visitors will receive a free booklet guide with paid admission to help the exhibit. For more details, check out http://www.conservatoryofflowers.org

Beach Chalet Mother’s Day Brunch – May 13

When you’re looking for a way to treat Mom to a nice outing in the park, the Beach Chalet is offering a delicious brunch or dinner served with the calming views of Ocean Beach. A special menu is planned from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with items, such as grilled salmon, Maple Bacon Bars, and Smoked Crab Bisque. It’s important to jump quickly at making reservations– spaces fill quickly.

Love Your Parks Day – May 19

From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., every district will be filling with locals showing their love for parks – thanks to the San Francisco Parks Alliance and other partners. Events will be hosted throughout the city, including basketball tournaments and habitat restoration. Of course, Golden Gate Park is participating. For more details on events and to register, check out http://www.loveyourparksday.org/

Bay to Breakers 2012 – May 20

This year will mark more than 100 years of ‘Bay to Breakers’- an annual event that sees endless runners and party-goers take to the streets of San Francisco and the western end of Golden Gate Park. People come dressed in costume, which makes the event truly a sight to see. The entire course becomes lined with spectators, so to get a good view, you may want to situate yourself in front of the Conservatory of Flowers in Golden Gate Park.

Bay Area Classic YoYo Contest – May 26

Yo-yos aren’t just for kids, as you will see at the 15th Annual Bay Area Classic Yo-Yo Contest being held at Spreckels Temple of Music Bandshell in Golden Gate Park. Some of the best yo-yo artists in the West Coast will gather to show off their skills, learn new tricks, and compete for more than $2,000 in cash and prizes. Haven’t yo-yoed in a while? Free lessons will be offered.

Strawberry Waffle Dash 5K – May 26

Who can resist a chance to chow down on fresh waffles after crossing the finish line at the Strawberry Waffle Dash – held on Memorial Day Weekend? From 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., participants will be charging through the terrain of Strawberry Hill for a good cause. The Picnic Dash is partnering with Blondes versus Brunettes for this race to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Association. The event will take place at 14th Ave East Meadow in Golden Gate Park. Please note that JFK Dr. will be closed.

Golden Gate Park

Question: What are the Japanese Tea Garden’s Free Admission Hours??

Answer: Mon, Wed, Fri: for free admission if entered by 10:00 am

Open Daily During Seasonal Dates and Times Below:

Summer (3/1 through 10/31): 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
Winter (11/1 through 2/28): 9:00 am to 4:45 pm

Golden Gate Park

Spring is in the air and what better way to celebrate the season than by taking a bit of time beautifying and enjoying the beauty of Golden Gate Park. The month of April is packed with plenty of opportunities to give back to the environment and your favorite local natural gem. Below you will find activities and events that help you participate in Earth Day, National Park Week and National Volunteer Week, as well as highlight other exciting April 2012 events happening at Golden Gate Park.

Free Admission deYoung Museum – April 3

If you haven’t paid a visit to deYoung Museum lately, perhaps this Tuesday is a good time. This is when the museum opens its doors for Free Admission Day (from 9:30 a.m. to 5:15 p.m). Free entry is available on the first Tuesday of each month at deYoung.

California Academy of Sciences Nightlife – April 5

CAS Nightlife events cost $12 to enjoy and last from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. with drinks, music, and activities that center around a fun theme for the week or month. On April 5, you can “Spring into Spring” with a night filled with expert beekeepers from Urban Bee SF. They will be bringing along bees and honey for you to enjoy. Earl’s Organic Produce will provide tasty fresh-picked strawberries for the event, as well as highlight a few cocktails that you might want to make at home. This is a 21+ event.

Other Nightlife events at the California Academy of Sciences include:

• Space Oddities NightLife to celebrate the 51st anniversary of the first human in space – April 12
• “Dirty, Earthy NightLife that highlights recycling, reusing, and offers “dirt tasting” – April 26

Friday Night at deYoung – April 6

Friday Night at deYoung is in full swing and if you’re looking for a free event to enjoy, the variety does not fail to entertain. From 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., head to the museum on April 6 to enjoy an evening centered on “Beautiful Rebels”, which is hosted and curated by PEACHES CHRIST. The night will bring a fashion show and a collection of costumes and performances.

Other Friday Nights at deYoung Museum events planned for April include:

• Fashion Slave Night – April 13
• “Making Scenes” Nightclub Night – April 27

Annual Dahlia Society Plant and Tuber Sale – April 7

The dahlia is a beautiful flower that often makes a guest appearance at Golden Gate Park in annual shows and sales. The Hall of Flowers will host an event from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. that is sure to brighten your day with color and fragrance. It’s suggested to be the early bird to enjoy some of the best selections of flowers. Plants cost $5, while tubers are sold for $3. If you have any questions or would like an opinion about the best plant for you, there will be dahlia experts on hand.

Golden Gate Jubilee – April 7

If you’re looking for a family-friendly outing in April, you might want to head for the Golden Gate Park Concourse (located on Music Concourse Drive) to attend the SF Carnaval “Golden Gate Jubilee” event on April 7. From 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., you can celebrate the Golden Gate Bridge with a stage show, kids’ booth, drum circle, dance lessons, conga line, food, live music, beer gardens, and other fun activities. This event will take place at 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive.

“Alice in Recreation Land” Spring Eggstravaganza – April 7

From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sharon Meadow will host a springtime event that includes plenty to do with the family. The San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department has planned egg hunts, carnival rides, jump houses, arts and crafts, live entertainment, and food for sale. It costs $8 to receive an all-access pass to this event. You can get your hands on advance tickets sold at McLaren Lodge (501 Stanyan Street).

Bank of America Free Museum Weekend – April 7 & 8

If you are a holder of a Bank of America credit card or debit card, you can take advantage of free admission to the deYoung Museum on April 7 and 8. The museum is one of the seven attractions in the Bay Area that participates in this promotion.

Easter Brunch at Park Chalet – April 8 

This Easter, leave the responsibility of cooking a delightful meal to Park Chalet by reserving your space for the Easter Brunch event on Sunday ($25 per person; $16 for children). From 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., you can feast upon a special buffet spread that includes Chicken Apple Sausage, cheese and fruit platters, and house-made pastries. At 3 p.m., the restaurant will switch to a special a la carte lunch/dinner menu. The Park Chalet will also provide the tunes of a free concert with Charity and The JamBand, as well as the annual Easter Egg Hunt for the kiddies – starting at 3 p.m. The Easter Bunny will also make a special appearance at the event. In order to participate, you must make reservations.

Strawberry Hill Volunteer Work Day – April 14

When you take the time to volunteer with the San Francisco Parks Alliance and the Recreation and Park Department, you will help restore the Butterfly Habitat at Strawberry Hill. Interested parties will meet at Stow Lake Boat House at 10 a.m. for a work day filled with planting and weeding. The event ends at 2 p.m. Bay Area experts will be on hand to speak about various aspects of Strawberry Hill’s natural and cultural history. Tools and equipment will be provided. For more details and to reserve your space, contact Julia Brashares at (415) 621-3260 ext. 101.

Sunday Streets – April 15 

The 2012 Sunday Streets block party is coming to Golden Gate Park on April 15, where the streets are off limits to vehicles, so that pedestrians, roller skaters, bicyclists and other activities may have the run of the area. This afternoon treat takes place at Great Highway and John F. Kennedy Drive with a new route through the park. It costs nothing to enjoy freedom of the park from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Homeschool Day at the Academy – April 17

For homeschooling parents, you may want to consider arranging a day of science at the Academy by participating in Homeschool Day. From 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., special presentations, demonstrations, and hands-on programs will be available for homeschooling families at reduced admission prices. However, you will have to make a reservation – pre-registration is required for all family members planning on attending. More details can be found on the Registration Guide.

Big Bang: Party After Dark – April 19

How will you be spending your Thursday on the 19^th? From 8:30 p.m. to midnight, enjoy the electrifying ambiance of the California Academy of Sciences by partying the night away. This special event will benefit the Academy research and education programs. There will be live music by Fitz and The Tantrums, late-night eats, and an open bar.  Only adults aged 21 and over may attend this event. To reserve your tickets, you can call (415) 379-5411 or pay a visit here.

Run for Recess 5k and 1 Mile – April 21

If you’re looking for a way to exercise in the park, the Run for Recess 5k and 1 Mile could be your ticket to inhaling your fill of clean, fresh air. The 5k run is designed for people of all ages and abilities, while beginner runners usually opt for the shorter, one mile course to walk or run. This event will be held from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Registration opens at 8 a.m. The 5K starts at 9 a.m. The Fun Run is held at 10 a.m. The proceeds for this event go towards funding Playworks programming. To register online, check out http://www.playworks.org/make-recess-count/play/san-francisco/run4recess-2012 . The cost is between $15 and $60.

San Francisco SPCA Adoption Outreach Program – April 28 & 29

The California Academy of Sciences is known for its creepy, crawly and exotic creatures that live inside, but on April 28 and 29 – you will have a chance to fall in love with a handful of cuddly furballs when the San Francisco SPCA makes a stop at the museum with its Mobile Adoption Outreach program. From 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., you can learn about the SF SPCA and possibly take home one of their deserving adoptable animals.

Golden Gate Park

This is a basic map of Golden Gate Park, including the Panhandle, and can be easily printed out. Some of the major attractions are keyed here, but please refer back to the website for the location of additional attractions that can be found in the park (and mark it on your printout!). We hope you enjoy the park as much as we do.

Download Park Map
More Maps

Interactive Map of Golden Gate Park.

Golden Gate Park

Carousels have a reputation for providing a magical ride to a dreamland that individuals of all ages can appreciate. This kind of unique enchantment comes to life at the Koret Children’s Quarter (formally the Children’s Playground) in Golden Gate Park – with a collection of glossy characters that include a dragon, camel, giraffe, ostrich, tiger, and of course, horses. For a small fee, you can enjoy a ride on the carousel. Choosing your friendly guide is sometimes difficult, as there are plenty of colorfully-hued creatures that delight, such as frogs, dogs, roosters, and pigs. During your rounds, take time to look at the inside panels of the carousel and absorb the painted landscapes highlighting the Bay Area.

History of the Carousel at Golden Gate Park

It has been the tradition of one of the oldest children’s playgrounds in the United States to have a carousel as part of its environment. Since the playground opened in 1888, there have been three at Golden Gate Park. The current jewel that literally glistens in the park is a 1914 beauty built by the Herschell-Spillman Company.

At first, the carousel was powered by steam, but when PG&E offered to loan an electric motor to the park, officials gladly agreed to pay the remaining expenses. Leading a well-traveled life, the carousel appeared as one of the main sights at the 1939 World’s Fair on Treasure Island, and also entertained at amusement parks in Los Angeles and Portland.

The illustrious, original carousel showcased 62 animal figures, decorative benches, alluring picture panels, and even an organ. The Herschell-Spillman creation enjoyed a long, continuous run until 1977 when a mechanism failed to work. Dubbed mechanically deficient, as well as lacking its initial visual appeal, the original carousel was sent to a restoration team for repair.

Paint was removed and the surfaces received a facelift, as missing parts were carved anew. The animals received a proper paint job with a radiant palette of colors. A German band organ was also installed in the carousel, which fills the air with an audio kaleidoscope of pleasure. The reopening of the revamped carousel took place in 1984 and was well received by the public.

Today, many come from near and far just to experience a whirl on the historic Golden Gate Park carousel.

Contact Details

Address: The Golden Gate Park Carousel is found at 320 Bowling Green Drive, between John F. Kennedy Drive and Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. This is adjacent to the Koret Children’s Quarter (playground) by the Sharon Building.

Phone: (415) 831-2700

Carousel Hours: The carousel is open on a daily basis from Memorial Day to Labor Day, as well as Friday through Sunday from the day after Labor Day through the day before Memorial Day. Year-round hours for carousel rides are 10 am to 4:30 pm – with the last ride for the day starting at 4:15 pm.

If you wish to reserve the picnic area adjacent to the carousel and playground, contact (415) 831-5500.

Carousel Ride Cost: Adults, ($2), children ages 6 to 12 years ($1 per ride), and children 5 and under are free when accompanied by a paying adult. Please note that children under 40″ in height must ride with a paying adult.

Parking: When paying a visit to the carousel at Golden Gate Park, keep in mind that parking is located east of Bowling Green Drive, which is by the lawn bowling building. You will not be able to park by the carousel or the Sharon Building.

Interesting Fact:

Since the carousel is such a historic wonder, the playground has become a popular place for event planning, such as parties and weddings, where food concession and other perks are offered.

Golden Gate Park