Garden of Shakespeare’s Flowers
Filled with 200+ flowers and plants mentioned in Shakespeare plays, this gated garden also features plaques with floral quotations from contributing cultural associations, a sundial, and an exclusive bust of the Bard himself in a bronze box set into a brick wall that you’ll only be able to see if you can convince an official to unlock it! This popular spot for reading and weddings alike can be found at Martin Luther King Jr. Drive and Middle Drive East.
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The Bison Paddock
Real-life American bison roam around an enclosed green field in the park, having first been welcomed to the park in 1890 when the species was in danger of extinction; a breeding program produced more than 100 calves, bringing the North American population up to 200,000 in the 1990s. You might not see these bison move much, but know that they can run up to 30 MPH! Say hi to them at the Western end of the park off John F. Kennedy Drive.
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Anglers Lodge & Casting Ponds
This rustic lodge and trio of pools serve as home base for the Golden Gate Angling & Casting Club, founded in 1933 and now boasting more than 1,200 members worldwide. The pools are free for anyone looking to hone their casting skills, with a clinic (rods provided, inventory permitting!) on the second Saturday of every month. Springtime offers the bonus of an adjacent rhododendron garden in full bloom. Find this oasis across John F. Kennedy Drive from the Bison.
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Lloyd Lake
The reservoir that pumps water up to adjacent Rainbow Falls, Lloyd Lake is equally beautiful if not as well known. It features the remains of historic 1101 California St—now simply a white marble be-columned archway nicknamed “Portals to the Past.” This Lake was frequented by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle in the 1920s (who explored rumours of the occult!), and was featured in Alfred Hitchcock’s 1958 film “Vertigo.” Get a glimpse into the past at John F. Kennedy Drive and 23rd Avenue.
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Academy Of Sciences Nightlife
You might already be familiar with the California Academy of Sciences, but did you know every Thursday from 6-10 p.m. it turns into a proper party with “music, creatures, and cocktails and a thought-provoking new theme?” General admission is just $15, and themes range from neuroscience and human health to “GOAT,” as in…both goats and the Greatest of All Time. Check out the nocturnal side of science every week at 55 Music Concourse Drive.
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