Last Updated on December 2, 2022 by Usama
Golden Gate Park is one of the best parks in San Francisco, CA, and one of the most popular parks in the country. The 1,017-acre land attracts over 24 million visitors per year! Whether you plan to visit the California Academy of Sciences, de Young Museum, or Japanese Tea Garden, have a picnic, or go for a run, our guide will help you find a safe and free parking space! Discover all Golden Gate Park parking services, where to find complimentary spots, and what garages offer daily parking nearby. Use our tips to travel safely and have a hassle-free day!
Golden Gate Park Parking Options
Golden Gate Park is huge, and several streets within it offer limited on-street parking spots, including the following:
- John F. Kennedy Drive;
- 36th Avenue;
- 47th Avenue;
- Martin Luther King Jr Drive;
- Nancy Pelosi Drive;
- Kezar Drive.
Parking availability varies according to the time of your visit and time of the day—it’s hard to find a free parking space on weekends or during events. Finding convenient street parking in Golden Gate Park is much easier on weekdays, especially near the west end.
de Young Museum Parking Garage & Alternatives
The de Young Museum is located within Golden Gate Park, and there is a car parking structure right underneath the building: the Music Concourse Garage. It’s also suitable for those visiting the California Academy of Sciences, the Botanical Garden, or Stow Lake. The garage parking rates vary according to the time of the day and the duration of your stay—check out the de Young Museum Parking guide for more information. It also includes information about accessible parking stalls and nearby paid parking alternatives.
One of the alternatives is the UCSF Medical Center Garage, which charges $3 per hour and $24 per day. The Kezar Stadium Parking Lot in the southeast corner of the park is another option; it’s located near the Stanyan St. entrance and charges $3 to $4 per hour.
Free Parking Near Golden Gate Park
Ocean Beach Parking, also known as Great Highway Parking, is free of charge and accommodates both standard and oversized vehicles. The visitor parking lot also has a few ADA parking spaces. Shuttles run every 15 to 20 minutes between the free lot and several locations within the park. The service is available on weekends and holidays between 9 AM and 8 PM.
Extra Golden Gate Park Parking Tips & Map
Although there are many options in the area, not all of them will be available or close to your preferred location, so we want to give you a few extra tips.
- When it comes to free parking around Golden Gate Park, a limited number of spots are also available on Fulton Street, on the park’s north side.
- If you plan to arrive by 10 AM, you may find a non-metered parking spot in the Outer Richmond and Outer Sunset neighborhoods.
- Some schools in the area, such as Lafayette School, used to sell parking, so you can check those out if other locations are sold out.
- Street parking is vigorously enforced everywhere in San Francisco, so please pay attention to the signs and restrictions to avoid SF parking tickets or towing.
- Protect your vehicle from theft, and don’t leave anything valuable in your car.
Check out the map below to easily find the most convenient parking in Golden Gate Park or call the San Francisco Recreation & Parks Department at 415-831-2700.
Taking Public Transit to Golden Gate Park
Avoid the parking hassle and potential fees by taking the SFMTA lines that run to the park: #5, #6, #7, #18, #21, #28, #33, #37, #43, etc. If you’re not familiar with the routes and schedules, use the Trip Planner to find the most suitable route. The single-ride cash fare is $3, and it’s valid for 2 hours. If searching for an airport transfer to Golden Gate Park, find and book an affordable SFO Shuttle!
Find Parking in San Francisco Without Any Hassle!
Our team has covered numerous points of interest nationwide, including multiple San Francisco venues and locations. In addition to the Golden Gate Park parking information, you can use our help to learn more about the following, including the beach between the park and the Golden Gate Bridge.
If you’re planning a trip out of San Francisco International Airport, we have a perfect guide for you—SFO Parking includes all on-site and off-site parking services and rates!
