Recently my cousin and I set out to spend the better part of the day at the California Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park.  Since it turned out we were done much more quickly than we thought, we set out to find something else to do in the park.  We had thought of visiting the Conservatory of Flowers, but decided to pass since it’s indoors and we were lucky enough to be there on a beautifully sunny day.  After paying the $25 admission to the Academy of Sciences we were feeling pretty poor.  That’s when we made a fabulous discovery!

In the heart of Golden Gate Park lies the wonderful San Francisco Botanical Garden at Strybing Arboretum.  Here you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and get back to nature.  As you enter the garden, a small pond with ducks greets you.  You can take time to smell the flowers in the Garden of Fragrance or wander through the Redwood Trail. 

An educational Primitive Plants section educates while it entertains.  At the entrance you walk over a geological timeline imprinted with plants from each era.  As you stroll along the boardwalk, you pass plaques which detail each time period.  They explain the botanical developments which occurred while you view the living reminders of  ancient times.

Another section of the Garden is dedicated to plants from different areas of the world.  Stroll from “Australia” to “Chile” along the paved paths and while you enjoy the natural setting, let the labels teach you about plant life around the world. 

There’s a area devoted to succulents, another to native California plants and one filled with rhododendrons.  In short, there’s something for every plant lover.

There are clean bathroom provided near the entrance and there’s a diaper changing table, too.  And the best part?  Admission is free!  Making this a great destination no matter how much time you may have to spend or your interest level.  Come for an hour or a day – you’re sure to enjoy your visit!