Registration for summer programs is going on now! This summer, we have something for everyone, including tot classes, swimming lessons, dance and fitness classes for adults, and a wide array of programs for seniors. Click here for more information on how to register and to search for a class.
Great news! Travel + Leisure Magazine has just named Golden Gate Park as one of the world’s most beautiful city parks. Here’s to all of you who love your city parks, and here’s to all of the men and women who work every day to keep it sparkling. Get out … Continue reading
The City has announced plans to host the Street Soccer USA West Coast Cup, a tournament to raise awareness for homelessness and bridge the gap between our various communities, in June. The tournament will include homeless teams from cities across the nation, playing and competing with corporate teams. The San … Continue reading
Teen and young adult singers, dancers, acrobats, magicians… If you have talent, join us for our second Rec Idol talent competition this summer. Winners receive cash prizes and studio recording time. Register now through June 30
Mother’s Day Photo Contest! Win a pair of tickets for you and your mom to an upcoming San Francisco 49ers game or the 2013 Outside Lands concert, plus other neat prizes! Simply send in a photo of you and your mom enjoying one of our parks to rpdinfo@sfgov.org, by Sunday, … Continue reading
Great news! The California Coastal Commission voted unanimously today to uphold the permit for the Beach Chalet Athletic Field renovation project at the West End of Golden Gate Park, perhaps the most vetted public project in Rec and Park history. The Commission’s vote means the renovation project can move forward … Continue reading
Great news! The American Institute of Architects San Francisco Chapter (AIASF) has awarded its 2013 Citation Award to Hayes Valley Playground, which was renovated in partnership with the Trust for Public Land. Read more here Continue reading
On May 22, 2013 the City and County of San Francisco Board of Supervisors will consider approval of a San Francisco Recreation & Park Department (RPD) project to acquire a parking lot located at 3861 24th Street (between Vicksburg Street and Sanchez Street) with the intention of converting the property … Continue reading
http://glenparkassociation.org/2013/04/16/a-canyon-wedding/
Check out this Glen Park Association news feature on a recent wedding in our own Glen Canyon Park, where Natural Areas volunteers exchanged mustard sheaves for a bouquet of ornamental flowers and said “I do.” Continue reading
Outside Lands has announced its lineup for this year’s concert, August 9-11, in Golden Gate Park. Tickets go on sale on Thursday, April 18, at 12 noon PST. Log onto http://lineup.sfoutsidelands.com for more information. Paul McCartney Red Hot Chili Peppers Nine Inch Nails Phoenix Kaskade Vampire Weekend Pretty Lights Yeah … Continue reading
Car-free Saturdays along portions of JFK Drive in Golden Gate Park begin Saturday, April 6, 2013. Every Saturday through September, JFK Drive, from Tea Garden Drive (near 8th Avenue) to Transverse Drive, will be closed to vehicular traffic, allowing for bicyclists, walkers, joggers, skaters and others to enjoy a wide … Continue reading
In celebration of Golden Gate Park’s 143rd Birthday on April 4, rediscover what this 1,017-acre city jewel has in store for you. From gardens, special attractions, museums, sports fields and facilities and an array of recreation and dining options provided by our partners, Golden Gate Park is the perfect destination … Continue reading
Earth Day at Bernal Hill on April 20 Join the SF Recreation and Parks and REI for Earth Day this year at Bernal Hill to help restore habitat and trails. On April 20th from 9 a.m. to noon, come for a vigorous morning workout removing invasive radish from the hillside … Continue reading
Summer is just a couple of short months away. Have you made plans for your kids this summer? Discover what’s in store for your child this summer, including more than 70 different day camps— traditional camps like Silver Tree and Pine Lake, as well as new camps like Lacrosse and … Continue reading
The city’s Greenagers Program is looking for 9th and 10th grade students who either live in or attend high schools in the following neighborhoods: Bayview, Bernal Heights, Crocker Amazon, Excelsior, Hunters Point, Mission Terrace, Outer Mission, Portola, Silver Terrace, or Visitacion Valleyand are willing to: Meet three Saturdays a month … Continue reading
Here’s some good news for those on the go! Extended spring/summer park restroom hours are now in effect. All park restrooms will be open from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. every day during the spring/summer months.
On March 22, members of the Public Utilities Commission, Rec and Park, and Friends of Jefferson Square Park celebrated World Water Day and the recent completion of significant water conservation projects at three city parks–Jefferson Square, Alta Plaza and Balboa Park. These improvements will save the city 5 million gallons … Continue reading
The Weather Channel has just released its list of America’s Best Public Parks and our very own Golden Gate Park makes the list! “An oasis in the city, Golden Gate Park offers trails to walk or hike, playgrounds, picnic areas, lakes, dog-friendly areas, museums, a carousel, and even Segway tours … Continue reading
SAN FRANCISCO— Golden Gate Park, San Francisco’s 1,017-acre crown jewel, has been named one of America’s Best Public Parks by The Weather Channel, which cited the park’s abundance of walking and hiking trails, lakes, playgrounds, picnic areas, dog-friendly areas, museums and other park amenities. The Weather Channel is a national … Continue reading
SAN FRANCISCO – The San Francisco Recreation and Park Department (RPD) unveiled today a newly approved design for the restroom at Portsmouth Square, one of the most heavily-used and popular parks in the Chinatown neighborhood. On Monday, March 4th, the SF Arts Commission approved the conceptual design for the Portsmouth … Continue reading
SPRING REGISTRATION BEGINS SATURDAY, MARCH 2. Choose from hundreds of classes for the entire family, including Zumba and fitness classes for mom and dad, sports and arts for kids, and aquatics courses for the grandparents. This spring, get out and play with Rec and Park. Browse our Spring Activities Guide … Continue reading
Golfdom Magazine features Rec and Park’s very own Wayne Kappelman, superintendent of Sharp Park Golf Course in Pacifica, Calif., and the winner of the 2013 Herb Graffis Businessperson of the Year award. Read how Wayne and his crew work tirelessly to keep one of the Bay Area’s most beautiful recreational … Continue reading
Valentine’s Day Contest: Like us on Facebook and receive a chance to win a couple’s photo shoot at one of our top romantic park spots, to be scheduled at a later date. The winning couple will also receive a framed 16”x16” stretched canvas photo from the photo shoot. Three runners … Continue reading
The San Francisco City Golf Championship, the oldest consecutively- played golf tournament in the world, will begin with the Men’s Open at Lincoln Park Golf Course on Saturday, February 9, 2013. Pairings for February 9th and future days can be found on the San Francisco City Golf Championship website Continue reading
This February, come see Rec and Park’s Young People’s Teen Musical Theatre Company’s production of “Godspell“, the gospel of St. Matthew told through hippie characters living in New York City in the late-1960s and early-1970s. TICKETS: $15 general; $10 student/seniors can be purchased brownpapertickets.com. For more information, click here, or … Continue reading
Join us for two budget meetings to discuss preliminary plans for Fiscal Year 2013-14, Monday, January 28, at Sunset Recreation Center (28th Avenue & Lawton), and Wednesday, January 30, at Minnie & Lovie Ward Recreation Center (Capitol & Montana) budget meetings 2013, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Learn about our … Continue reading
The new Philosopher’s Way trail, dedicated Saturday in San Francisco, meanders through McLaren Park, weaving onto vistas of the city and the Bay Area and into groves of redwoods and cypress… The 2.7-mile trail loop holds expansive views of the region, including Mount Diablo, Mount Tamalpais, Angel Island and the … Continue reading
Even though the colder weather is upon us, the kids can still go outdoors to play. The San Francisco Recreation and Park Department has started a program designed to bring some extreme sports to local neighborhoods for youngsters to try out… On Saturday, Mobile Recreation will visit Crocker Amazon Park in … Continue reading
Mayor Ed Lee, Supervisor David Chiu and a group of city officials, including Port officials, Rec and Park Commission President Mark Buell, and Rec and Park GM Phil Ginsburg, cut the ribbon on the new Pier 43 promenade near Fisherman’s Wharf on December 17. The new promenade extends The Embarcadero … Continue reading
The Neighborhood Empowerment Network’s NEN Awards are returning for their fifth and biggest year on January 9. Produced in partnership with the CCSF Community Challenge Grant Program, The NEN Awards are dedicated to elevating and celebrating the tremendous work that residents and organizations do every day to make our city … Continue reading
We invite you to view our report to the community for Fiscal Year 2011-12, which provides an overview of the great work our department has been doing during the past year. Read about what’s happening in your parks, our recreation program highlights, and how we’re working to keep your parks … Continue reading
More than 500 people came out to McLaren Lodge in Golden Gate Park on December 6 to celebrate the Recreation and Park Department’s 83rd Annual Holiday Tree Lighting, an event begun by longtime park superintendent “Uncle” John McLaren, who would light a mile-long stretch of trees on Fell Street, ending … Continue reading
The 2013 season of the San Francisco Youth Baseball League is right around the corner in March 2013. Registration begins December 6, at 10 a.m. Fees are $80 per player, which includes coaching, uniforms, practice and games. Multiple divisions for both boys and girls, ages 5 through 14. Log onto … Continue reading
Entering its 54th year, the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department’s Workreation Program is a school-year and summer employment, mentorship and training program for all youth who live in, or attend school in, San Francisco. Workreation is open to youth, ages 14-17 (or 18, as long as the student is … Continue reading
See CBS-5′s report on Rec and Park’s 83rd Annual Holiday Tree Lighting, which was held on Thursday, December 6, 2012. More than 500 revelers came out to enjoy carnival rides, arts and crafts, live entertainment and a visit from Santa. See the entire report here.
District 4 Supervisor Carmen Chu and Hydra Mendoza from the Mayor’s Office, along with 750 of their closest friends from the Sunset District, helped cut the ribbon on the newly renovated Sunset Recreation Center on November 16. The event marked the completion of a $14 million project that transformed the … Continue reading
Originally opened in 1985, Boeddeker has certainly seen better days, but thanks to the Trust for Public Land, a variety of state grants, and the leadership of people like Betty Traynor, the cofounder of the Friends of Boeddeker Park, the park and its aging clubhouse are set for an $8.5 … Continue reading
Show your support for SF Rec and Park and do it in supreme style with this unique fashion tee from Jack’s on Chestnut. Every time one of these t-shirts is purchased, $10 goes directly back to supporting the Department’s Youth Scholarship Program, which ensures that youth and families have access … Continue reading
The Active 20-30 Club of San Francisco #4, in partnership with San Francisco Recreation and Parks and Gay-Straight Alliance Clubs of San Francisco, is happy to present a volunteer event for local youth to help other kids get the school supplies they need at “Youth Space,” Rec and Park’s special … Continue reading
Join us for a civic celebration to raise funds and friends for San Francisco’s parks, with San Francisco Parks Alliance and the San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department. Guests will enjoy fly-casting demonstrations, bourbon & branch, beer, wine and the sounds of bluegrass at the casting ponds beside picturesque Anglers … Continue reading
Join Supervisors Scott Wiener and David Campos, San Francisco Recreation and Park Department General Manager Phil Ginsburg, the City Fields Foundation, neighbors and park advocates for the grand reopening ceremony of Mission Playground. The event will include a ribbon cutting ceremony, music, food trucks, an outdoor picnic and fun games … Continue reading
Yahoo! Travel names Golden Gate Park as one of the nation’s prettiest parks. Congratulations and thanks to the staff and volunteers who work every day to keep our parks clean, safe and beautiful year round. Get out and play! http://travel.yahoo.com/ideas/america-s-prettiest-parks.html?page=2
After a $3.5 million renovation at one of San Francisco’s busiest parks, neighbors and park users are rejoicing. Balboa Park, one of three parks in the city that the Trust for Public Land is helping to overhaul, is a popular community hub for residents, soccer players, families, students and baseball … Continue reading
By John Cote Balboa Park, dedicated in 1910, was a destination spot on San Francisco’s southern side for generations of children. Thanks to a wave of efforts, including a recently completed $3.5 million renovation, it is once again. Over the years, the park had fallen into disrepair. Playground equipment wore out and … Continue reading
Best known for its world-class attractions – the de Young Museum, the California Academy of Sciences and the Conservatory of Flowers – the east end of Golden Gate Park is a great place to spend an afternoon even if you can’t afford any admission tickets. Rich in history and filled … Continue reading
SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS)— The city of San Francisco is inviting the public to a couple of Summer Olympics viewing parties at Civic Center Plaza next week. Three Olympians were on hand to help make Tuesday’s announcement from the steps of City Hall. The parties will be held next Tuesday and … Continue reading
Dolores Park Works and Helen Diller Playground are both nominees for SF Beautiful’s 41st Annual Beautification Awards, which will be announced tonight. Dolores Park Works is a nonprofit park advocacy and service organization that’s been tending the park since 2009; Helen Diller Playground opened to great fanfare in April after … Continue reading
When you took over the seemingly tranquil Recreation and Park Department, did you ever imagine it would end up being so high-profile and occasionally contentious? Well, I had already spent some time watching Amy Pohler in “Parks and Rec,” so I knew what I was in for. … It’s exactly … Continue reading
The Chinese Recreation Center, known for years as Chinatown’s unofficial backyard, will reopen Saturday with a new name and a sparkling $21 million building, but the same commitment to providing a spot for sport, play and relaxation in one of the nation’s most densely populated communities. The center “is at … Continue reading
The Trust for Public Land has just released a national study, ParkScore, concluding that San Francisco has the best urban park system in the country! It is the most comprehensive park rating system ever developed and was designed to help local communities identify where new parks are needed most and … Continue reading
In accordance with the newly adopted West Harbor Post Renovation Assignment Policy, Marina Management has posted an initial Seniority List for each berth size based on the records we have indicating seniority dates for a continuous Berthing License (Rental Agreement or Mooring License). This Seniority List will be updated if … Continue reading
On May 21, Mayor Edwin M. Lee participated in a ceremonial renaming of Middle Drive East in Golden Gate Park in honor of Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi to celebrate her 25 years of public service to our City and its residents. Leader Pelosi represents California’s 8th Congressional District in the … Continue reading
Music fans, what do Stevie Wonder, Metallica, Neil Young, Beck and the Foo Fighters all have in common? These legendary musicians are all part of this year’s Outside Land Music Festival in Golden Gate Park, August 10-12. Visit www.sfoutsidelands.com for more information or to purchase tickets today!
Sign up now for Rec and Park’s 6-on-6 women vs. women dodgeball tournament on June 15, at Eureka Valley Rec Center, 100 Collingwood Street. All teams are guaranteed two games. Register now by calling (415) 831-6810, or by emailing adela.dominguez@sfgov.org.
Wednesday, May 16, 2012 “Playgrounds pocked with toxic equipment would be replaced, rutted basketball courts would be resurfaced, and overgrown trails, worn swimming pools and funky public bathrooms would all be made functional under a plan city leaders unveiled Tuesday to improve San Francisco’s vast network of parks.” Read more: … Continue reading
Singers, comedians, dancers, bands… Got Talent? If you’re between the ages of 13 and 24 and want to share your talents with the rest of the world, register now for Rec Idol, Recreation and Parks’ first ever summer talent competition. Registration begins June 1, with auditions beginning June 21. Visit … Continue reading
The mission blue butterfly is making a comeback, thanks to our collective efforts on Twin Peaks, in partnership with San Mateo County Parks and Creekside Science Center for Earth Observation. See the video here: sanfrancisco.cbslocal.com…
What would make a marriage proposal in front of friends and family even more romantic and memorable? A marriage proposal in the heart of San Francisco’s Union Square! (Spoiler Alert: She said YES!) See the video here: www.romanceneverdies.com…
The Recreation and Park Commission has adopted new policies for the management and operation of the San Francisco Marina Small Craft Harbor. New Marina Rules & Regulations were adopted on April 19, 2012, which are now in effect. Also, the Commission adopted a Post-Renovation Berthing Assignment Policy for the repopulation … Continue reading
Thanks to everyone who came out to Sharon Meadow in Golden Gate Park this past Saturday to enjoy our third annual Spring Eggstravaganza family event. Photos are posted on our Facebook page here. Also, a huge round of applause and thank you to all of the men and women from … Continue reading
Saturday, April 7, 2012, 11am – 3pm Join us for an "Alice in Recreation Land" Spring Eggstravaganza on April 7, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Sharon Meadow in Golden Gate Park. This family event features Egg Hunts, Carnival Rides, Jumpy Houses, Arts & Crafts, Entertainment, and a Rib Cook-Off between … Continue reading
Tuesday, March 20, 2012 After years of wrangling, the various groups that call Dolores Park home have agreed on a plan to remake a city green space that has been a victim of its own popularity… "Is everyone happy? It's San Francisco and there are always a lot of different … Continue reading
Wednesday, March 14, 2012 The Sululagi M. Palega, Jr., Recreation Center is located in the Portola District in the southeastern quadrant of San Francisco. Funding in the amount of $21.2 million comes from the 2008 Clean and Safe Neighborhood Parks Bond. As a historic resource, the renovation of the Palega … Continue reading
By John Wildermuth After years of wrangling, the various groups that call Dolores Park home have agreed on a plan to remake a city green space that has been a victim of its own popularity. “Is everyone happy? It’s San Francisco and there are always a lot of different opinions,” … Continue reading
Five years after asking voters to approve a $185 million bond for parks, The City once again plans to court voters with a planned November bond measure to fix up parks, playgrounds, restrooms, athletic fields and the waterfront. With $1.6 billion in deferred maintenance needs, the Recreation and Park Department … Continue reading
Monday, April 2, 2012 Community feedback and outreach played a crucial part in the success of the 2008 Clean and Safe Neighborhood Parks Bond and we're building on that successful framework for this process. We'd like to hear from you and receive feedback about what is currently missing from your … Continue reading
Monday, April 2, 2012 Community feedback and outreach played a crucial part in the success of the 2008 Clean and Safe Neighborhood Parks Bond and we're building on that successful framework for this process. We'd like to hear from you and receive feedback about what is currently missing from your … Continue reading
By Tom Stienstra What you’ll see: Lake Merced is San Francisco’s backyard lake, park and fishing hole, yet it’s worth the trip from anywhere in the Bay Area. It is a great destination for jogging, easy bike rides with kids, picnics and golf. Lake Merced is near the San Francisco … Continue reading
Friday, March 9, 2012 Thousands of daily commuters, weekend visitors to the Academy of Science and de Young Museum, and explorers of Golden Gate Park will be enjoying 1.5 miles of separated bikeway on the eastern half of JFK Drive in Golden Gate Park in a matter of weeks! The … Continue reading
The Restroom Repair and Replacement program funds the construction, repair, and renovation of restroom facilities. Many of the city park’s restrooms are old, need repair and are poorly designed for maintenance and proper supervision. Following the passage of the 2008 Clean & Safe Neighborhood Park Bond, the Recreation & Parks … Continue reading
Thursday, February 23rd District 2 Meeting 6:00-7:30 pm Moscone Rec Center, 1800 Chestnut Street Monday, February 27th District 7 Meeting 6:30-8:00 pm Taraval Police Station, 2345 24th Avenue Tuesday, February 28th District 6 Meeting 6:00-7:30 pm San Francisco Public Library, 100 Larkin Street Wednesday, February 29th District 9 Meeting Location … Continue reading
After a full year of participatory community design in 2011, the proposed Dolores Park Rehabilitation Plan is ready for commission and environmental review and then implementation. The Dolores Park community worked intensely through the fall to complete the proposed Rehabilitation Plan. In the final community design workshops, participants resolved the … Continue reading
During December the project reached a milestone with the completion of the pile driving and installation of the Phase 1 docks, the installation of the north ADA gangway the completion of the sheet pile breakwater. The harbor office has closed for renovation and the harbor staff has be relocated temporarily … Continue reading
BERNAL HEIGHTS TRAIL RESTORATION COMMUNITY MEETINGS The Recreation and Park Department will be hosting a series of community meetings to discuss the future trail restoration improvements to Bernal Heights Trail. Your input is important to us and will help us improve the Bernal Heights Trail in a way that is … Continue reading
Click here for event flier Including Samuel – A film by Dan Habib Tuesday, January 10 – 6:00 to 9:00 pm The Bay Theater at the Aquarium of the Bay, Pier 39 Join us and enjoy these Program Highlights: • 6:30 film screening followed by Q&A with Dan Habib • … Continue reading
December 10th Community Meeting Recap 12.13.2011 Thank you to all who attended Saturday’s community meeting! We had a great turn out, and we received a lot of helpful feedback, which will continue to inform us as we move forward with the Glen Canyon Park renovation. For those of you who … Continue reading
By Gerry Shih After listening to more than an hour of tributes and emotional testimony Thursday morning, the San Francisco Park and Recreation Commission voted unanimously to rename Speedway Meadow in Golden Gate Park in honor of Warren Hellman, the ailing financier who has long been one of the park’s … Continue reading
Thank you to all who attended Saturday’s community meeting! We had a good turnout, and we received a lot of helpful feedback, which will continue to inform us as we move forward with the Glen Canyon Park renovation. For those of you who were unable to join us on Saturday, … Continue reading
By Robin Wilkey Last week, famed skateboarder Tony Hawk kept skating in San Francisco alive with a $10,000 donation to the San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department to support the construction of the new SOMA West Skate Plaza at Mission Street and Duboce. The park is part of the SOMA … Continue reading
By Joe Rosato, Jr. Far longer than there’s been a Golden Gate Bridge, Treasure Island or Coit Tower, there were bison roaming Golden Gate Park. The first herd moved into a pen in the park’s Music Concourse in 1891, and to its current west-end digs in 1899. But following the … Continue reading
November in-water construction activity focused on the installation of the Phase 1 docks. A permit amendment was granted to extend the in-water work window into the first two weeks of December so that Dutra can wrap up pile driving. By December 15 we should see the Contractor’s barges leave … Continue reading
Progress that was made this week includes: The Contractor continues to make good strides this week on the concrete flat work. Crews formed and poured the bridge abutments, walls at the sand table, finished pads for the climbing wall, net anchors and slabs this week. Work on the irrigation lateral … Continue reading
Glen Canyon Park Community Meeting Learn about the proposed improvements! Come give us your input! Saturday, December 10, 2011 3 p.m. – 5 p.m. At Glen Canyon Park Recreation Center (located inside the park, near the intersection of Elk & Chenery Streets) Come to the latest community meeting we are … Continue reading
It’s been an exciting month for the Community Opportunity Fund! At the end of October the Recreation and Park Commission approved the award of ten Round 2 projects! From stairway beautification at Lincoln Park to an adult fitness area at Boeddeker Park, these projects are a diverse bunch! We’ve also … Continue reading
Join us for the annual lighting of the venerable Monterey cypress tree at McLaren Lodge in Golden Gate Park, a city tradition, Thursday, December 8, from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., featuring small rides for children, live entertainment, a cookie factory, arts and crafts, and a visit from Santa. Free. … Continue reading
It is with great pride and pleasure that the Recreation and Park Department announces that Steve Castile, our Golf and Turf Manager, has been selected to received the 2011-2012 MFAC Public Managerial Excellence Award! MFAC (The Municipal Fiscal Advisory Committee) is a partnership between the City and SPUR (San Francisco … Continue reading
The Recreation and Park Department is soliciting proposals from qualified respondents to lease and manage concession opportunities at Coit Tower in San Francisco. The Tower is an international landmark and offers magnificent views of San Francisco Bay, as well as the City, both from lower viewing areas and the observation … Continue reading
The San Francisco Chronicle came out with a great piece on the Nocturnes Night Photography group, who are having their 20th Anniversary celebration and exhibit at Harvey Milk Photography Center on November 9th… The piece features Stever Harper, who was the first night photographer to teach the craft. Harper’s work, … Continue reading
In San Francisco, our park gardeners are some of the hardest working city employees out there, helping to maintain our park spaces at an extremely high level. Volunteers are crucial to our success. Last year, we relied on 141,000 hours of volunteer time to improve our parks and programs. Here’s … Continue reading
The November 12th Community Meeting to discuss Glen Canyon Park’s renovation is just around the corner! We hope you can join us to check out the park’s new design and share your preferences for new playground equipment! Thanks to all for coming to the series of community meetings we had … Continue reading
