On sunny days the hip and trendy residents of the Mission District make a beeline for Mission Dolores Park. Spreading across 16 acres (6.5 hectares) of undulating lawns, Mission Dolores Park is a perfect spot for relaxation and recreation in San Francisco. The park sits on the grounds of a former Jewish cemetery in one of the city’s most diverse neighborhoods. Join the locals for picnics, sports, live music and people watching.
Tall palm trees rise above the park’s emerald green lawns, which provide an ideal setting for picnics and sunbathing. Views reach toward the impressive downtown skyline from the top of the sloping grass verges. Observe as groups of friends play games of frisbee and balance on tight-ropes they attach between trees.
A 12-feet (3.7-meter) tall statue of Miguel Hidalgo, the Father of Mexican Independence, watches over the park. It’s one of several interesting statues and monuments, including a replica of Mexico’s Liberty Bell. Look for a kinetic sculpture that forms part of artist Lyman Whitaker’s Wind Sculptures series. The Golden Fire Hydrant saved the district when it burst into flames in the aftermath of an earthquake in 1906.
Visitors who want to get active can take part in a range of sports. Go to the park’s northern side to find a basketball court and six tennis courts. Dog walkers can let their furry friends run off-leash in two designated dog play areas. Non-stop children’s entertainment abounds at a contemporary playground with boats, climbing frames, sandpits, slides and swings.
Festivals, concerts and open-air movie screenings bring more entertainment to the park throughout the year. Join scavenger hunts and volunteer clean-up days. Try boot camps, yoga sessions and Zumba classes.
Find Mission Dolores Park located in the Mission Dolores area of the Mission District. It's served by the Right of Way / 18th Street light rail station. You can also take the subway from Embarcadero to the 16th St Mission stop and then walk for 15 minutes. Free and metered parking is available on the park’s surrounding streets.
