2024-01-23 15:18:00
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES: WHAT TO DO WITH A FEW EXTRA HOURS With a free morning or a little time between meetings, attendees can stretch their legs, get a dose of fresh air and experience a bit of San Francisco’s great outdoors. Here are six ideas for off-the-clock, al fresco activities. GLIDE THROUGH GOLDEN GATE PARK With more than 1,000 green acres dotted by lakes and a bevy of cultural institutions, Golden Gate Park packs a lot of must-see attractions into one place. Attendees can make the most of their time by renting a Segway from the Electric Tour Company to explore. They offer guided tours (ranging from one-hour to three-hour excursions) for those who want to learn more about the history of the park and its hidden gems. MARVEL AT BEAUTIFUL BLOOMS Also located in Golden Gate Park (and worth a visit of its own) is the San Francisco Botanical Garden, which encompasses 55 acres that are home to nearly 9,000 different kinds of plants. Thanks to the Bay Area’s famous fog and mild weather, the Garden enjoys a range of climatic conditions that exist in few other botanical gardens in the world. Attendees can visit year-round to take in the seasonal highlights, including fall’s cloud forests and colorful foliage; winter’s magnificent magnolias; spring and summer’s eruptive bloom; and a century-old Redwood Grove, as well as other unique global collections. EXPLORE THE PRESIDIO Once an Army post, the Presidio is now a unique national park next to the Golden Gate Bridge offering spectacular vistas, nature and history. Its 1,500-acre footprint is a natural oasis bursting with native flora and fauna. Former defensive batteries now serve as breathtaking vantage points of the Pacific Ocean. Also not to be missed are world-renowned artist Andy Goldsworthy’s four incredible installations, all made with repurposed natural materials found within the park. ADMIRE THE PAINTED LADIES Attendees will find a full range of outdoor activities at Alamo Square, from walking trails to tennis courts, but the park is perhaps best known for its view of the iconic Victorian houses of “postcard row” at Hayes and Steiner streets. Known as the Painted Ladies, these beauties make for an irresistible photo op, particularly for fans of the popular ’80s sitcom “Full House” and its Netflix sequel. STROLL AROUND THE MISSION This Mission District is the perfect place to soak up some San Francisco ambience while walking, picnicking or people watching. At its heart is Mission Dolores Park, where the sloping hills provide an excellent view of downtown's skyscrapers rising above the park's green grass. The Mission District is also an outdoor gallery, as hundreds of walls and fences are adorned with colorful art with themes ranging from cultural heritage to political statements. Attendees can check out the vibrant murals of Balmy Alley and Clarion Alley for an up-close look. WALK AND TALK AT SALESFORCE PARK This urban oasis has become an anchor for downtown and is just a few blocks from The Moscone Center. Salesforce Park, located on the roof of the Salesforce Transit Center, is 5.4 acres of beautiful landscape, including 600 trees and 16,000 plants. People-watch in the Main Plaza or get some steps in on the half-mile Walking Trail that winds through 13 small gardens representing different regions around the world. Either way, Salesforce Park makes a great spot for coffee chats and getting to know fellow conference attendees while enjoying the city.
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