San Francisco is an amazing city full of surprises both large and small. The Yerba Buena Gardens is one of those surprises and even captures the essence and spirit of this Californian city perfectly. Consisting of an area that covers two blocks, the Yerba Buena Gardens is a unique park. The first section opened in 1993 with the second following in 1998. Named for the Mexican territory that later became San Francisco, Yerba Buena Gardens is an extremely popular area for both residents and visitors.
Wide open patches of green and towering trees compete with the urban landscape of concrete and steel in the heart of San Francisco. Using modern and contemporary designs, the layout of the park and all of its features are truly unique and inspired. With creativity and a love for the arts and nature in mind, the Yerba Buena Gardens features several works of art and fauna and flora. Sculptures can be found all throughout the Gardens and small gardens such as the Cho-En Butterfly Garden can be discovered.
By far the most impressive part of the Yerba Buena Gardens is the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial. Located behind a 50 foot waterfall visitors are able to see twelve glass panels in granite. Quotes from the civil rights leader are inscribed in the glass and photos depict the struggle and triumph of the civil rights movement.
Whether it's during a lunch break, afternoon stroll, or picnic, the Yerba Buena Gardens is an amazing place with several attractions and activities. A restored carousel from 1905, bowling allies, breathtaking gardens and sculptures are available to visitors.
The following activities include admission to Yerba Buena Gardens:
Go San Francisco card is a multi-attraction pass that gives you the ability to experience over 45 great San Francisco attractions all for one combined price!
The San Francisco All Loops Double Decker Hop on / Hop Off Tour gives you two full days to enjoy the sights of San Francisco by double decker bus at your own pace.
We also offer a detail of most tour stops, drive bys and visits with our Tour Connections page.
The Annual San Francisco Theater Festival at Yerba Buena Gardens in San Francisco, CA has indoor and outdoor venues to hold all of the live theaters with a great variety of acts and music.