Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Shakespeare Garden

    4.5 (98 reviews)
    Closed 6:00 am - 6:00 pm

    Shakespeare Garden Photos

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - Shakespeare Garden

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Flowers
    Annabelle R.

    This is a cute garden with a charming entry gate, lined with colorful flowers and plenty of greenery. There are several benches along the border to enjoy your time here with loved ones while appreciating the view and peace and quiet. On one end of the garden, a lovely sculpture of William Shakespeare is accompanied by plaques displaying quotes from his various works including A Midsummer Night's Dream and Macbeth (though these plaques have noticeable wear, some a bit hard to read). The great writer and poet is portrayed as half man and half pillow... take a closer look at the bronze bust and you'll know what I mean. This garden is located between Cal Academy of Sciences and the SF Botanical Garden. Surrounded by and hidden among trees and shrubs, it's easy to miss. Also, apparently this is the most popular wedding site at Golden Gate Park, so don't be surprised if it's occupied and inaccessible without warning during your planned visit. If you're not lucky enough to find free street parking along one of the nearby roads, the Music Concourse Parking Garage is within walking distance, available for a fee. The Shakespeare Garden is a fairly small space that can be a bit underwhelming considering all that Golden Gate Park has to offer. But it's certainly worth checking out and nice for a quick visit if you're already in the area.

    Cheyenne G.

    Beautiful garden!!!! Overall, Golden Gate Park is gorgeous! Unlike any park I've ever been too, and Shakespeare garden is a total vibe! The music they play and the ambience is relaxation at its finest! Me and my group enjoyed stopping here and laying out on the grass. The flowers are gorgeous and the scenery is peaceful.

    Rachel D.

    On my recent trip last weekend to California for an event this was one of our stops in touring. The Shakespeare garden was an absolutely beautiful quaint and romantic place for an event ( especially weddings) round of golf or to just have a lovely picnic. Located on Martin Luther King Jr. drive it is also known as golden gate park. Right next to the san Francisco Academy of science center. I noticed that the place does give tribute to of course William Shakespeare with a cast iron sculpture forming off the brick wall. Water lilly ponds on the sides of the wall and little planted flowers among the sides of the garden. The garden is simple which makes it more beautiful with the overflow of green grass. There are porch benches around the park and Tall trees that overlap the benches for shade. Definitely a beautiful sight to see which indeed is free entry. Best way the park is to see academy of science center next door as well or take the bus tour hop on hop off. This way you can have close access to the Japanese Tea Garden which unique and zen. Very peaceful and beautiful. Oriental bonsais and cherry blossoms everywhere.

    This gate must remain unlocked at all times
    John G.

    To be, or not to be, that is the question: Hamlet's soliloquy posed a question whether it is better to live or not to live. During this pandemic, I think a lot of people went through roller coaster of emotions and probably contemplated that same question. Our mental fortitudes were pressed like never before, and some had sadly surrendered to the unknown in this so-called afterlife. We might still be fighting that same struggle as we continue in what seems to be a never-ending journey without a light at the end of the tunnel. I will be honest...I've never been tested like this before. I've hit rock bottom and I was emotionally drained. I even stopped Yelping for several months as the pressure continued to grow. Struggle might be an understatement to describe what I was going through. Yes, I was contemplating the other "S" word. I felt like I was trapped in a never-ending cycle and I was in a very dark place and I wanted to end it. Then I felt foolish and selfish since it would be cowardly of me to go through with what I thought was an easy way out. It's not fair to my wife, my kids, my family and friends. I feel judged and embarrassed that these thoughts even surfaced, and never felt so naked in my whole life. Just like Hamlet came to realize, it is better to live. There is a quote that I read that stated, "If you're going through hell, keep going." I found my way in this peaceful garden and found it a perfect metaphor for what I was going through. I've spent countless of days exploring every inch of Golden Gate Park and found solace whenever I stepped foot inside the gates with Jaime by my side. It is a lovely, peaceful garden surrounded by willowy trees, greeneries and all kinds of flowers. I hear the best times to enjoy the flowers is in April when they are in full bloom. From daisies, lilies, poppies, roses and violets with a cornucopia of vibrant colors, certainly they're not quiet. There is wonderful life beaming in this garden. Listen to the birds serenade you with a Shakespearean sonata, if you let your imagination run wild. Observe the butterflies and bumblebees floating and coexisting in harmonious flora and fauna. Sit on the bench or the grass under the shade of the trees and watch the people's expressions as they brighten up with delight at such a wonderful sight. Breathe the fresh air as it fills your lungs knowing your alive in this moment in time. For those of you who are going through hell, keep fighting and pushing forward until you bid it farewell. 'Tis better to live than to have your family and loved ones forgive.

    Shakespeare's Garden. Since 1928.
    Lisa X.

    My 200th review. Love this beautiful garden inside Golden Gate Park. It's such a romantic place to take engagement and or wedding photos. And that's exactly what we did a few years ago. We took our engagement photos here. Many of the flowers inside the garden are planted there because they were mentioned by Shakespeare in his various plays. For example: Roses, Daisies, Lilies, Violets, Poppy, and Mandragora. I feel very fondly about this garden every time I walk by, definitely a special place.

    Montage of images from Shakespeare Garden
    Ed U.

    ** The following review reflects my experience just prior to the shelter-in-place order currently in effect. ** In the shadow of the California Academy of Sciences is this quiet enclosure that's officially called The Garden of Shakespeare's Flowers. The name comes from the fact that all the flowers growing here are referenced in the Bard's works. Now I know Juliet said about her first-nighter with Romeo, "A rose by any other name would smell as sweet" - but frankly I had no idea what a floral obsession he had to produce the garden. I came here just before shelter-in-place took effect, but I'm guessing this is surviving intact, including the bust of the Bard which dates back to the 17th century when it was cast in his hometown, Stratford-Upon-Avon. I know there are Shakespeare Gardens around the world, but let's appreciate the one we got 'cause hell, we can't go anywhere anyway. RELATED - Looking for local greenery? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: https://bit.ly/2P5dHRe

    Rhea L.

    It's nice to sit down and talk. It's a very small park but nice and quiet near the Japanese garden.

    Shakespeare Garden
    Raquel A.

    Romantic picnic spot in Golden Gate Park, with many plants commonly mentioned in The Bard's works. Lovely garden just as I had imagined! Amazing for photos and photography. You will spot some very beautiful native and non native plants here. Thoroughly impressed by their cleanliness and maintenance of the whole property.

    Shakespeare Garden
    Fahim L.

    This is a beautiful garden with trees, flowers, grass, and benches. It is a great place to sit, relax, and have a peaceful time. I loved it!

    Dyanna Q.

    I love this spot for some quiet time or an intimate wedding. It's situated right behind the Academy of Sciences and often gets overlooked. It's gated and serene, and I've officiated many beautiful weddings here. There's a sun dial in the middle and a small plaque, statue and fountain towards the front with a stone bench that adds to the mystique.

    "I will not be sworn but love may transform me to an oyster" (Much Ado About Nothing - Act 2, Scene 3) *shakes chainmail*
    Eric R.

    "It is not in the stars to hold our destiny but in ourselves." - William Shakespeare I'm in love with being in love. A medieval romantic living deep into the 21st century. An old soul that believes in romance, chivalry... & hella yea, smashing the enemy in the face with 16th century war hammers! A vibrant Shakespeare in search for Viola de Lesseps played by Gwyneth Paltrow (Shakespeare in Love) & why I feel free at the... *Shakespeare Garden* "The course of true love never did run smooth." - A Midsummer Night's Dream | Act 1, Scene 1 I love this garden in the middle of massive Golden Gate Park. The garden itself might be larger than you might expect, however plants of the division magnoliophyta, also called angiosperms, aka "flowers" might be lessor than your heart might desire. Yet, with less blooms you'll see trees, grass blades, walkways, a fountain, statues, busts, stone benches and maybe even a slight grassy knoll. As in all Shakespeare Gardens it is dedicated to the flowers featured or referenced within the works of Sir William Shakespeare. Each of the 200 or so flowers are described within a play of Shakespeare, and several of the flora-related quotes are featured on copper plaques at the rear of the garden. The garden dates to 1928, the brainchild of Alice Eastwood, who served as the long-running director of botany for the Academy of Sciences. Inside the garden, a stone bench was placed in her honour. *Shakespeare Garden* "This above all: to thine ownself be true." - Hamlet | Act 1, Scene 3 Lastly, I shall return over and over again with knee highs and adidas. I'll leave my horse hair wig at my castle to rest, but bring my book of poetry & picnic basket to feast. The garden is located next to the Academy of Sciences, just off of the Music Concourse. It is somewhat hidden away by the sloping trees, but worry not, it's there for all poets, lovers, pigeons and the occasional vagabond... *Shakespeare Garden* "I will not be sworn but love may transform me to an oyster" - Much Ado About Nothing | Act 2, Scene 3

    David T.

    A wonderfully laid out little gem hidden in the Golden Gate Park. Very relaxing place to sit and be with your thoughts or friends. Usually quiet and peaceful. Perfect gel for a pleasant conversation with a friend, or bring a bottle of wine and sit in the corner enjoying the shade and peace.

    Beauty and the Beast, Batman Robin
    Chris R.

    Me and my girlfriend were adventuring around Golden Gate park on Sunday never been to De Young Museum and so we went and saw a lot of old and new technology. Walked our way to Shakespeare Garden where I've never been either. But it was a really nice day out to explore the city!

    See all

    3 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1

    7 months ago

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 1
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Steve A.
    4748
    5539
    8461

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 8
    Thanks 0
    Love this 7
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of John G.
    514
    1115
    10380

    5 years ago

    Helpful 69
    Thanks 0
    Love this 62
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 17
    Thanks 0
    Love this 20
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 13
    Thanks 0
    Love this 13
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Rhea L.
    0
    45
    197

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of John S.
    891
    2946
    4161

    4 years ago

    Helpful 9
    Thanks 0
    Love this 8
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 33
    Thanks 0
    Love this 32
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    12 years ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Kitty O.
    85
    132
    18

    8 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 0
    Love this 9
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Mark B.
    204
    1177
    2819

    10 years ago

    Helpful 21
    Thanks 0
    Love this 21
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    Helpful 21
    Thanks 0
    Love this 17
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    Helpful 8
    Thanks 0
    Love this 9
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Me H.
    131
    925
    1017

    18 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 6
    Oh no 0

    11 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 5
    Oh no 0

    14 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Janel Y.
    290
    1410
    1628

    16 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    15 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Veg V.
    30
    423
    73

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Junia I.
    74
    24
    16

    16 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    14 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    18 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Dan E.
    102
    1037
    329

    9 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    16 years ago

    Helpful 27
    Thanks 0
    Love this 27
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    Helpful 12
    Thanks 0
    Love this 7
    Oh no 0

    16 years ago

    Helpful 5
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of C L.
    1
    59
    4

    9 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 3

    Ask the Community - Shakespeare Garden

    Review Highlights - Shakespeare Garden

    This cozy gated spot within golden gate park is so very romantic and can truly serve as a charming wedding venue !

    Mentioned in 38 reviews

    Read more highlights

    You might also consider

    Verify this business for free

    People searched for Parks 18,532 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

    Verify this business

    Mount Tamalpais State Park

    Mount Tamalpais State Park

    4.8(435 reviews)
    11.4 mi

    Just past SF this park has so many different trail options perfect for all hiking levels. The…read moredownside is this place gets PACKED! My sister and I arrived before 8am at the Watershed parking lot and barely found a space. We did the trail that took us to the West Point Inn for the pancake breakfast and round trip was close to 5 miles so it was a great workout. There's gorgeous views and well! On the way back to the 101 however it's a mess. The road on the way down is crowded with parked cars, which makes driving through challenging. That's the only thing about this park, other than that I'd love to come back in spring when everything is green and vibrant!

    My first association of Mt Tam is from Cowgirl Creamery's best seller, Mt Tam Triple Cream with…read moreHeart cheese. Ever since then, I've wanted to hike this peak, today I have achieved my wish. Early June with mild coastal temp, 50s-60s. Started up Matt Davis Trail in the foggy forest, to Pantoll Campground, to West Point Inn where we can look down to the top of the fog layer, to the Fire Lookout building at the Peak. Then we came down reverse but split off to Steep Ravine and Dip Sea trail after the campground. I've also always wanted to climb that ladder. This hike provided views of the Pacific ocean on the West as well as views of Richmond-San Rafael Bridge on the East side. I thoroughly enjoyed the cool lush forest, but actually my favorite section was the single track along the slope of the open area after the Mt Tam State Park sign.

    Photos
    Mount Tamalpais State Park - Yummy time for critters

    Yummy time for critters

    Mount Tamalpais State Park
    Mount Tamalpais State Park

    See all

    Golden Gate Park - Shooters Shoot ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

    Golden Gate Park

    4.7(1.4k reviews)
    0.7 mi

    Imagine a huge rectangle. Make it a park with grass and hills, flowers, trees, some fountains... I…read moredunno, throw in a big lake, some world-class Art and Science museums, and a dome where concerts and shows perform in the Summer. Let's also close down the streets from cars one day a week in the Summer so people can ride their bikes, skate, rollerblade, play and dance in the streets! How about on some warm weekend days we put huge concerts there that fill the grass for as far as the eye can see so people can bring all their friends to enjoy food, drinks, and music together. And the lake... let's make it so people can rent boats, and if they don't or can't row, they can peddle so they, too, can enjoy the waterfall and life on the lake! Let's also have beautiful statues around the park, definitely a Shakespeare Garden, and let's throw in something for garden lovers, like a Botanical Garden (a big one) and a Conservatory of Flowers. For more culture, let's add a Japanese Tea Garden with more lakes and flowers, and even a bridge in the shape of a circle. Let's also make this accessible to everyone, so some days, the museums are free (ie, usually once a month). And some entrance fees are lower for locals. (Check the websites.) Aaaaaand this is Golden Gate Park, and this is my favorite park in California, if not the entire country.

    something for everyone…read more this park is big! don't try to walk it all, just go to wherever you're interested in. whether it's the museum, japan tea garden, botanical garden, boating at the lake, or choose any picnic spot. a sunny day here is really enjoyable, so much space to spread out from others and do your own thing great for taking a stroll and dog walking.

    Photos
    Golden Gate Park - Golden Gate Park

    Golden Gate Park

    Golden Gate Park - Golden Gate Park

    Golden Gate Park

    Golden Gate Park - Golden Gate Park

    See all

    Golden Gate Park

    Lafayette Park - Lots of monkey bars at Lafayette Park!

    Lafayette Park

    4.5(186 reviews)
    2.7 miPacific Heights

    We really enjoy coming to Lafayette Park Playground this morning for an early Easter egg hunting…read moreevent--it's quite unique compared to other playgrounds in the city. The layout is more challenging and perfect for little explorers who love to climb, balance, and stay active. My 3-year-old always finds something new to do, and it keeps them engaged for a long time. I also appreciate that babies aren't left out--there are designated areas where younger kids can safely play too. The restroom is conveniently located and clean, which is a big plus for families. That said, some of the rocky edges can be a bit risky for adventurous kids, so it's definitely a place where you'll want to keep a close eye on them at all times. The only downside is parking--it can be pretty tough to find a spot, especially during busy times. Overall, it's a fun and exciting playground that's great for kids of different ages, as long as you're prepared for a bit of supervision and a parking hunt!

    What you lose in challenging elevation changes, you gain in stunning views and greenery. Lafayette…read morepark is an iconic location in San Francisco and a place that serves regular park goers, those who want to play tennis, those with kids, as well as our four legged friends. The park is beautifully maintained, with clean walking paths, manicured gardens, and enough benches and seating spaces. You can easily find a little corner to make your own for a bit. There is a rather large and modern kids playground and even more large grassy areas, both for those who want to lounge and for the dogs that want to run around. Overall, Lafayette Park is yet another gem that makes San Francisco special.

    Photos
    Lafayette Park
    Lafayette Park
    Lafayette Park - Beautiful paths view of Sutro Tower, pretty area

    See all

    Beautiful paths view of Sutro Tower, pretty area

    Shakespeare Garden - parks - Updated May 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...