TOP 30 Best Urban wildlife in San Francisco, California

San Francisco Botanical Garden, located at 1199 9th Avenue in San Francisco, California, is a stunning institution that combines the beauty of a park with the educational experience of a museum. Visitors can explore 55 acres of landscaped gardens and open spaces showcasing over 8,000 different plant species from around the world. The Garden offers guided walks for families, downloadable maps for self-guided tours, and unique outdoor venues for events. One of the highlights of the Garden is the Conservatory of Flowers, the oldest public wood-and-glass conservatory in North America, housing a rare and exotic plant collection. The Japanese Garden, the oldest operating public Japanese Garden in North America, offers a tranquil and serene escape. The Andean Cloud Forest Collection, showcasing plants from the Andes Mountains, and the Australian collection with its unique species are must-see attractions.

The San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center is located at 2 Marshlands Road in Fremont, California. This institution serves as a travel agency, offering information and resources for visitors to explore the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge, established in 1972, is the nation's first urban national wildlife refuge and provides critical habitat for a variety of plant and animal species. The refuge features fifteen habitat types, including wetlands, grasslands, and tidal marshes, which support over 340 plant species and 280 species of birds. Visitors can spot wildlife such as the California clapper rail, California tiger salamander, and western snowy plover. The refuge also offers opportunities for wildlife-oriented recreation and nature study for the surrounding communities.

Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge is located at 2 Marshlands Road in Fremont, California, United States. This park and tourist attraction is part of the South San Francisco Bay Shoreline Project, currently undergoing construction until June 2025. The refuge, established in 1972, is the nation's first urban national wildlife refuge and serves as a wildlife oasis in an urban environment. With fifteen different habitat types, the refuge is home to over 340 plant species and 280 bird species, as well as various other wildlife such as fish, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Visitors to the refuge can enjoy opportunities for wildlife-oriented recreation and nature study, while also contributing to conservation efforts through volunteering and community partnerships. The refuge aims to preserve and enhance wildlife habitat, protect migratory birds and endangered species, and provide educational opportunities for the surrounding communities.

1 Hotel San Francisco is a sustainable sanctuary located in the heart of San Francisco, California. Inspired by the stunning landscape of Northern California, our urban oasis is central to the Embarcadero, offering a perfect home base to explore the area's culinary influence, harbor history, and vibrant culture. Our interiors and furnishings are designed using local and reclaimed materials, such as redwood lumber from the former San Francisco Bridge and reclaimed barn wood salvaged by The Hudson Company. Each floor is equipped with filtered water taps, recycled wine-into-water bottles in every room, and shower timers to promote water conservation.

Golden Gate Park is a sprawling urban oasis located in San Francisco, California. Covering over 1,000 acres, this iconic park is a must-visit tourist attraction for visitors to the city. With stunning gardens, serene lakes, and a variety of recreational activities, Golden Gate Park offers something for everyone. Take a leisurely stroll through the Japanese Tea Garden, visit the California Academy of Sciences, or simply relax and enjoy the natural beauty of this urban escape. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Golden Gate Park is sure to delight and inspire.

Corona Heights Park, located in San Francisco, California, offers some of the best views in the city. Visitors can enjoy a carpet of wildflowers in the spring, including checkerbloom, California poppy, and Douglas iris. The park is also home to the sensitive Johnny jump-up flower, which is the only host plant for the callippe silverspot butterfly. Keep an eye out for the anise swallowtail butterfly, known for frequenting the hilltops of San Francisco. The one-mile trail network at Corona Heights Park winds around the hill and leads to the summit, providing a 360° view of the San Francisco Bay Area. The trails consist of stable, sometimes steep, dirt paths with box step staircases. The trail leading down to the 15th Street tennis courts is the most challenging section with steep terrain and loose gravel.

McLaren Park is a sprawling urban oasis located at 2075 Burrows Street in San Francisco, California. This beautiful park offers visitors a peaceful escape from the city with its lush green spaces, scenic walking trails, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. With amenities such as playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports facilities, McLaren Park is the perfect destination for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, play a game of soccer, or simply enjoy a quiet moment in nature, McLaren Park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Alamo Square, located on Hayes Street in San Francisco, California, is a historic park and tourist attraction known for its iconic "Painted Ladies" of Postcard Row. This picturesque hilltop has been featured in numerous TV shows and movies, including the sitcom "Full House." Aside from its fame, Alamo Square offers lush lawns, flowerbeds, and willow trees, making it a beloved play space for families and visitors. The park features a dual-level playground for children, an off-leash area for dogs, a full tennis court, walking trails, and a picnic area.

Dolores Park, located in San Francisco, California, is a popular tourist attraction encompassing nearly 16 acres. This vibrant park features lush green lawns, palm trees, sports facilities, playgrounds, and off-leash dog areas. It is a hub for festivals, performances, and cultural events, drawing crowds for picnics, leisurely walks, and stunning views of the city skyline. Originally a Jewish cemetery, the park became a refuge for earthquake survivors in 1906 before being transformed into a beloved community space. Visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out their trash. The park is easily accessible by public transportation and offers a unique blend of history, recreation, and natural beauty.

Located at 70 Elk Street in San Francisco, California, the Glen Park Recreation Center is a hidden gem at the foot of Glen Canyon. After a $22 million renovation in 2017, this facility now offers a wide range of activities for the whole family, including baseball, tennis, basketball, and even the city's first public climbing wall. The center hosts various programs such as Tot Playtime, Pilates, Yoga, Zumba, and more. Open gym hours are available for pickup basketball and other sports. With a diverse schedule of activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Glen Park Recreation Center.

Peacock Meadow is a stunning park located at 240 John F Kennedy Drive in San Francisco, California. This enchanting tourist attraction is known for its vibrant peacocks that roam freely throughout the lush greenery. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks, picnics, and bird watching in this picturesque setting. With its serene atmosphere and beautiful wildlife, Peacock Meadow is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in the heart of San Francisco.

Mount Sutro Open Space Reserve is a vibrant 61-acre park nestled amongst the trees in the heart of San Francisco, California. Owned by UCSF, this urban oasis offers over 5 miles of public multi-use trails for hikers, trail runners, cyclists, and dog walkers. Named after former San Francisco Mayor Adolph Sutro, the Reserve has a rich history and is home to a diverse array of rare and native plants, as well as various tree species. The Reserve is committed to sustainability and preservation, with ongoing maintenance efforts and a focus on habitat restoration. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of Rotary Meadow, a native plant garden, and explore the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area. The Sutro Stewards, in collaboration with UCSF, work to maintain and manage the trails and conservation sites within the Reserve. With a commitment to safety and sustainability, UCSF is implementing a Vegetation Management Plan to ensure the long-term health of the forest and ecosystem. Whether you're looking to explore nature, volunteer with the Sutro Stewards, or simply enjoy a peaceful escape in the city, Mount Sutro Open Space Reserve offers a unique and enriching experience for all who visit.

Glen Canyon Park is a beautiful natural oasis located in the heart of San Francisco, California. This park offers a variety of hiking trails, lush greenery, and stunning views of the surrounding cityscape. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, birdwatching, and exploring the park's diverse plant and animal life. With its peaceful atmosphere and convenient location, Glen Canyon Park is a popular destination for both locals and tourists looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Twin Peaks, located at 501 Twin Peaks Boulevard in San Francisco, California, is a renowned landmark and park that offers breathtaking views of the Bay Area. At 922 feet in elevation, it is the second-highest peak in the city and provides a glimpse of San Francisco's natural landscape before development. The park is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, including the endangered Mission Blue Butterfly. Visitors can explore the 64-acre park by hiking the trail network that ascends the two peaks, or by continuing on to Glen Canyon Park for a longer hike. Street parking is available off of Crestline Drive, and public transportation options are also nearby. Please note that Twin Peaks will be closed for a period in November 2023, and visitors should check for updates on traffic and access.

Crissy Field is a popular park and tourist attraction located at 1199 East Beach in San Francisco, California, United States. Your gift to Crissy Field helps preserve over 80,000 acres of parkland in the area. The Crissy Field Center serves as a dynamic hub of youth engagement for the Golden Gate National Parks and is a model program of the National Park Service, the Presidio Trust, and the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy. Established in 2001, the Crissy Field Center aims to connect children, youth, families, schools, and community groups to the park through a variety of opportunities. The Center has supported over 750,000 individuals since its inception, and with the completion of Presidio Tunnel Tops in 2022, the Center staff have moved back to their original home.

Angel Island State Park, located in Tiburon, California, is a popular tourist attraction offering stunning views of the San Francisco Bay. From hiking trails to recreational opportunities, this hidden gem is a must-visit in the urban Bay Area. The park has a rich history, from being a seasonal hunting ground for native tribes to serving as an immigration station and military base. Visitors can reserve campsites in advance and access the island via public ferry or private boat. With amenities such as food, shuttles, tram tours, and bike rentals, Angel Island State Park offers a unique experience for all. Don't miss the chance to explore this historic and scenic destination!

Starr King Open Space is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 1215 Carolina Street in San Francisco, California, United States. The park spans approximately 3.5 acres and offers stunning views of the hills to the west and the Golden Gate Bridge on clear days. The institution regularly hosts volunteer stewardship days where community members can come together to help maintain the park. The next volunteer day is scheduled for Saturday, April 13th from 9:30am to 12:30pm. Additionally, there will be an annual meeting and board election coming up soon.

Vargas Plateau Regional Park is a 1,249-acre park located in the Fremont Hills in California. The park offers stunning views overlooking Niles Canyon, Fremont, Union City, Newark, and the San Francisco Bay. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including golden eagles, hawks, deer, bobcats, frogs, snakes, and more. Visitors can enjoy over six miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, as well as birdwatching and raptor viewing opportunities. The park features diverse habitats such as grasslands, wetlands, oak woodlands, and more, providing a unique outdoor experience on the urban/wildland threshold.

John McLaren Park is a sprawling urban oasis located in the heart of San Francisco, California. Covering over 300 acres, this park offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy. From hiking and biking trails to playgrounds and sports fields, there is something for everyone at John McLaren Park. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife and plant species, making it a popular destination for nature lovers. With stunning views of the city skyline and the surrounding hills, John McLaren Park is a must-visit tourist attraction in San Francisco.

Sunset Reservoir Park is a beautiful urban oasis located in the Sunset District of San Francisco, California. Situated at 1900-1998 28th Avenue, this park offers stunning views of the city skyline and the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can enjoy picnicking on the grassy lawns, strolling along the walking paths, or simply relaxing and taking in the peaceful surroundings. The park also features a playground for children, making it a great spot for families to spend quality time together. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled day out, Sunset Reservoir Park has something for everyone to enjoy.

The Balboa Natural Area, located at the corner of Balboa Street and the Great Highway in San Francisco, California, is a small but beautiful 1.8-acre park that offers a unique experience for visitors. Situated in the southern corner of Sutro Heights Park and overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this natural area is home to a diverse foredune plant community and provides a habitat for dune-dependent animals. Accessible via an elevated boardwalk, the Balboa Natural Area offers stunning views of the ocean and is a great spot for recreational trail use. It is a rare gem in the city, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

Shorebird Park Emeryville is a picturesque waterfront park located in Emeryville, California, United States. This park is a popular destination for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts, offering stunning views of the San Francisco Bay and a variety of shorebirds that can be observed in their natural habitat. Visitors can enjoy walking along the shoreline, picnicking on the grassy areas, and taking in the sights and sounds of the bay. With its tranquil atmosphere and diverse wildlife, Shorebird Park Emeryville is the perfect place to relax and connect with nature.

Cayuga Playground, located at 301 Naglee Avenue in San Francisco, California, is a hidden gem in the Outer Mission and Cayuga Terrace neighborhoods. This local favorite offers visitors a variety of attractions, including sculpture gardens, unique trails, and a bustling basketball court. One of the park's most notable features is the work of its retired gardener, Demetrio Braceros, who transformed the park's natural surroundings into works of art with themed gardens and whimsical woodcarvings. Visitors from all over the city come to admire his work. If you encounter any maintenance or vandalism issues at Cayuga Playground, you can report them by calling 311 or clicking the link provided. Visit Cayuga Playground to experience the beauty and charm that make it a beloved spot in the community.

Central Park is a sprawling oasis nestled in the heart of Millbrae, California. Located at 477 Lincoln Circle, this beloved tourist attraction offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can meander through lush greenery, enjoy a leisurely picnic by the pond, or simply soak up the serene ambiance. With its scenic walking paths, vibrant gardens, and iconic landmarks, Central Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and sightseers alike. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled day out with family and friends, Central Park has something for everyone.

Billy Goat Hill is a charming park located at 2442 Castro Street in San Francisco, California. This hilltop park offers breathtaking views of the city and bay, making it a popular tourist attraction. The park features a mix of urban forest and grassland plant communities, providing a unique habitat for wildlife such as American kestrels and other raptors. Visitors to Billy Goat Hill can enjoy a small trail network that leads to a viewpoint overlooking the city. The trail consists of steep switchbacks that climb up the hillside, offering a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience. The park is also adjacent to Walter Haas Park, providing additional recreational opportunities for visitors.

Rossi Park is a picturesque and popular tourist attraction located in San Francisco, California, United States. This charming park offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, with lush greenery, scenic views, and a tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls, picnics, and outdoor activities in this beautiful urban oasis. Rossi Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those looking to relax and unwind in the heart of San Francisco.

Boyle Park is a picturesque and serene park located at 11 East Drive in Mill Valley, California. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its lush greenery, scenic walking trails, and beautiful picnic spots, Boyle Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a family picnic, or simply soak up the natural beauty of the surroundings, Boyle Park has something for everyone. Come and experience the tranquility and charm of this hidden gem in the heart of Mill Valley.

The Letterman Digital Arts Center Recycled Water Pond at Lucas is a serene park located at 1101 Gorgas Avenue in San Francisco, California, United States. This beautiful pond is filled with recycled water, making it a sustainable and eco-friendly oasis in the city. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings, watch the wildlife that call the pond home, and learn about the importance of water conservation. It is a perfect spot to relax, unwind, and connect with nature in the heart of San Francisco.

Bayview Park, located at 1001 Le Conte Avenue in San Francisco, California, is a beautiful and diverse natural area that attracts tourists and locals alike. The park boasts a wide variety of plant and animal species, including stunning wildflower displays, coastal scrub, eucalyptus and oak groves, and the largest population of Islais cherry trees in the city. Visitors can expect to encounter western fence lizards, California alligator lizards, non-poisonous snakes, red-tailed hawks, great horned owls, and woodpeckers during their visit. The primary trail at Bayview Park is a paved road that loops through the park, offering stunning views and glimpses of the park's rich history. Remnants of stairs and retaining walls built by the Works Progress Administration during the Depression can still be seen along the roadway. The park's cultural history dates back to the early 1900s when it was almost lost to development, but was saved and officially declared a park.

Tunnel Top Park is a vibrant green space located at 1100 Pennsylvania Avenue in San Francisco, California. This park is a popular tourist attraction that offers a place for community connection, recreation, and appreciation of wildlife and plants. The park features various art installations funded by the San Francisco Community Grant, including a labyrinth, a dog park mural, and unique seating wall mosaics made by local artists. The park also includes a gated dog run surrounded by beautiful gardens, which is considered the collective responsibility of all dog owners and walkers. Visitors are asked to please clean up after their pets and dispose of waste in the designated trash can. Come visit Tunnel Top Park for a peaceful and artistic experience in the heart of San Francisco.