Golden Gate Park
1,017 acres holding what's thought to be the country's first public playground (now Koret), a carousel of 62 animals, and rowboats on Blue Heron Lake.
Kid essentials
How kid-friendly is it?
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Nearby places
Rowboats and pedal boats for a loop around the island in the lake, plus a café with burgers and fries for after.
A wide lawn beside a playground, first set aside in the 1800s as a safe haven from the horse racing in the park.
Sheltered sand play area, courts and picnic tables, and a clubhouse running tiny-tot classes, after-school programs and teen nights.
Sunset District Vietnamese with kids' portions and pho that soothes everyone.
A tucked away community garden beside an early education school, better for a quiet wander than a full playground outing.
More garden than playground, with community plots tucked beside an early education school.