A free garden of roses
The garden is laid out as a lawn ringed and crossed by beds of hybrid teas, floribundas, grandifloras and climbing roses on arches and pergolas. Many beds are labeled with variety names, which makes it a good place to choose roses for your own garden. Entry is free and there is no gate fee or ticket.
When the roses bloom
Roses here start in late April, peak from mid-May through June, and keep reblooming into early fall. Volunteers deadhead and prune regularly. Fog keeps the colors fresh into midday, while afternoons bring more visitors and more wind.
Find the Rose Garden
The Rose Garden is on the north side of JFK Drive near Park Presidio Drive, west of the Conservatory of Flowers. It is on the car-free JFK Promenade, so you can reach it on foot or by bike, and the free park shuttle passes nearby. The 5 Fulton stops along Fulton Street to the north.
Other free gardens nearby
Combine it with the Shakespeare Garden, the Dahlia Garden beside the Conservatory of Flowers, the Fuchsia Dell and the Queen Wilhelmina Tulip Garden in spring. All are free. See our list of free things to do for more.
Tips for visiting
Come in the morning for the freshest blooms and fewer people, and wear layers, since the garden is open to the wind. There are benches around the lawn but no café inside; the nearest food is at the Music Concourse museums or on Clement Street, north of the park. Dogs must be leashed, and picking flowers is not allowed.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to see the Rose Garden?
Mid-May through June, though roses bloom from late April into October.
Is the Golden Gate Park Rose Garden free?
Yes, there is no admission fee.
