SF Botanical Garden is an open secret in the city. It’s snuggled on the northern edge of Golden Gate Park near 9th Avenue at Lincoln Blvd. It’s easy to walk right by it in the rush to the more popular museums like the DeYoung or Academy of Sciences.

Walking the grounds is peaceful and inspiring. It’s one of the few places that is free for locals but the low admission fee is worth it if you’re visiting and interested in native wild and plant-life in San Francisco. The redwood grove is very nice. Docent tours are available to lead you through the gardens or on a guided bird tour.

This urban oasis is one of the most diverse and interesting gardens in the world. It’s a great place to get lost for a day and leave the hustle and bustle behind.

On the first and third Sundays you can find Story Time and Family Garden Walk starting at 10:30.