Highlights
About This Deal
Highlights
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2-hour guided walking tour of Golden Gate Park, exploring historical landmarks and hidden gems
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See iconic sights, like the Japanese Tea Garden’s red pagoda, and the Shakespeare Garden’s literary plants
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Admire formal flower beds, palm trees, a floral clock, and sculptures outside a grand Victorian conservatory
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Reflect at the National AIDS Memorial Grove, a peaceful 10-acre tribute
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Take in panoramic views from the Hamon Observation Tower, including the Golden Gate Bridge on clear days
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Visit the California Academy of Sciences, featuring an aquarium, planetarium, and rainforest
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Optional VIP Upgrade: A 45-minute behind-the-scenes tour of the Academy’s Living Roof, gem vault, and more
What To Expect
Golden Gate Park is massive, and this guided walking tour ensures you don’t miss any of its most iconic spots. Your expert guide will lead you through the pedestrian-only JFK Promenade, known as the Golden Mile, showcasing landmarks like the Conservatory of Flowers, the Japanese Tea Garden, and the National AIDS Memorial Grove. You’ll explore the oldest Victorian-era wood-and-glass conservatory in North America, stroll through a Shakespeare-inspired garden, and pause at the poignant memorial honoring those lost to AIDS. Your guide will share fascinating stories, like the Japanese Tea Garden’s history dating back to the 1894 California Midwinter International Exposition, and point out the best spots for photos, like the iconic red pagoda.

Next, head up to the Hamon Observation Tower for sweeping 360-degree views of the park, with a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge on clear days. After the walk, your adventure continues with a visit to the California Academy of Sciences, where you’ll explore a world-class natural history museum, featuring 46 million specimens, an aquarium, planetarium, and a four-story rainforest. For a truly immersive experience, you can opt for the VIP upgrade, granting you exclusive access to the Living Roof, the gem vault, skip-the-line perks, and reserved seating in the planetarium, all while enjoying a 10% discount on dining.
Plan Your Visit
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Operating Hours Starts at 9 AM
Fri-Sun -
Duration 4 hours
2 hours self-guided -
Accessibility Wheelchair accessible
Stroller accessible -
Meeting Point Robert Emmet Statue, Music Concourse Drive, San Francisco
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End Point California Academy of Sciences, Music Concourse Drive, San Francisco
Itinerary
Conservatory of Flowers
Views of the blooms and sculptures outside a giant Victorian conservatory
National AIDS Memorial Grove
A 10-acre memorial in a peaceful green setting
Shakespeare Garden
Planted with trees, shrubs, flowers, and herbs from the Bard’s plays and poems
Japanese Tea Garden
Dating to the 1890s and featuring an iconic red pagoda
De Young Museum
Where you’ll climb the Hamon Observation Tower for 360-degree views of the park and beyond
California Academy of Sciences
Your ticket to explore one of the largest natural history museums in the world, housing over 46 million specimens and a four-story rainforest
Optional upgrade: VIP tour at the academy
For a guided visit behind the scenes, including off-limit areas atop the Living Roof, access to the private gem vault, and more
How It Works
1. Plan your visit
Select and reserve your preferred date
2. Grab the Deal
Proceed to checkout to buy & book your Groupon!
3. Redeem your Mobile Ticket
Scan your Groupon upon arrival
4. Enjoy the Experience!
FAQs
When should I arrive?
Guests should arrive 15 minutes early to ensure a timely start
How much walking is involved?
The tour covers less than 1.5 miles at a leisurely pace, perfect for everyone
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is fully accessible for wheelchairs and strollers
Do I need to tip the guide?
Gratuities are not included but are welcome for outstanding guides
What’s included in the California Academy ticket?
The ticket grants admission to all exhibits at the California Academy of Sciences. The VIP upgrade includes private access, skip-the-line perks, reserved planetarium seating, and a 10% discount on dining