Question 1

What is the difference between a public and private group tour? How many people can join them?

Accepted Answer

Public tours are offered a few times each month. They are open to all.Private group tours are scheduled throughout the week and on weekends. They are for your group only, and can be customized based on your interests.These are small group tours. Up to 12 people attend them. If you are interested in scheduling a private group tour and would like a larger number of participants, just let me know.

Question 2

How do I learn about upcoming public group tours?

Accepted Answer

Please contact us to learn about upcoming public tour dates.

Question 3

Are tickets / entrance fees to park attractions included in your tours?

Accepted Answer

No. Entrance fees to ticketed areas of the park are not included.

Tours are designed to give you an overview of highlights within the park. Most tours are scheduled in the morning so you can explore places of interest –  and these attractions – in the afternoon.

Question 4

What should I bring with me? How should I prepare?

Accepted Answer

The weather in the park can be very different from the rest of the city. You'll want to be prepared for fog, wind, and sun, so bring layers!

Good walking shoes and water are also good ideas.

Question 5

Are these tours strenuous? Is there seating along the way?

Accepted Answer

No. But you would need to be comfortable walking for 1.5-2.5 hours.

We walk at an easy pace and stop at many locations along the way. A few locations have seating available.

All tours are on pavements and sidewalks and are flat – with the exception of one location. The National AIDS Memorial Grove access is either down some stairs, or via an ADA-accessible ramp.

Please note: Participants walk at their own risk.

Question 6

How long are your tours?

Accepted Answer

There are currently three tours available. The Full Loop is approximately 2.5 hours. The other two (Parts 1 and 2) are half of this tour, approximately 1.5 hours each.

Times are approximate based on the number of people on the tour, questions and conversations, and the pace of our group.

Question 7

Are there any breaks along the way?

Accepted Answer

The Full Loop tour has a 15-minute stop halfway through at the DeYoung Museum. Participants can use the restroom there, enjoy views atop the Hamon Tower, or relax.

Question 8

Is the tour appropriate for children? Pets?

Accepted Answer

Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

It's important to note that these tours focus on history, art, and architecture. That being said, children will enjoy being in the park, and there are plenty of interesting things to see along our route.

Please make sure to let me know if you're bringing children when booking.

No pets, please.

Any questions? Please contact me.

Question 9

Where do your tours start and end? How early should I arrive?

Accepted Answer

Starting Points
The Full Loop and Part 1: Half Loop tours start at McLaren Lodge (501 Stanyan Street, at Oak St., on the northwest corner).

We will meet at the bench directly in front of the lodge and then move to the benches on the left side of the building.

The Part 2 : Half Loop tour starts at the benches in front of the DeYoung Museum (50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr.).

Ending Points
The Part 1: Half Loop tour ends in front of the DeYoung Museum (50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr.).

The Full Loop and Part 2: Half Loop tours end at Stanyan and Haight Streets, near the McLaren Lodge.

Our tours start promptly. Please arrive 15 minutes early. If you are late, please contact me, and we can find a location along the route for you to meet us.

Question 10

Do you accept tips?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Tips are greatly appreciated. You can add a tip at checkout. If you'd like to tip after our tour, I accept cash and will also have a QR code available to accept tips online.

Question 11

Do you have gift cards? How long are they good for?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I do! Gift cards can be purchased here, and are good for a year.

Frequently Asked Questions