San Francisco, California

I know The City a.k.a San Francisco is famous for many attractions but I don’t remember flowers being one of them. When I think about San Francisco, typically it’s the Warriors, fine dining, the 49’ers, Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Lombard Street and all the famous destinations I’m not listing. I’ve never heard of the Conservatory Of Flowers until this past weekend. From San Francisco, head north toward Marin County (where Tupac went to high school) and before you reach US Highway 101 at the Golden Gate Bridge, you’ll see a flower museum on the right hand side of John F. Kennedy Drive. This view caused us to release the gas pedal and apply the brakes:

It was raining on us and we weren’t prepared so we toured in a timely fashion. When the sun is out and the grounds are dry, all the attractions are unlocked and the museum offers guided tours, beer gardens, a mystery show and a how-to class on gardening. Here’s some images without the guided tour:

Crossed about 20 yards of soaking wet grass to get this shot. I was hoping for a plaque or something explaining the significance of the statue. Although we didn’t receive that, we were rewarded with a wet pair of socks to continue our drive north in.

Street view - up close.

A giant clock made of flowers. The entire arrangement is about 10 feet tall by 10 feet wide. From a distance it’s much easier to see all the numbers.

And just beyond the clock, continuing on the paved path up a little hill, you’re met on the other side by a huge garden of cacti:

You can see the roof of the museum in the background as the sun is forcing itself through the clouds.

This is the view looking back toward the road we parked the car on:

Down these steps and walk alongside another aisle of vibrant flowers to get back to the car.

If you find yourself in San Francisco, navigate over to Golden Gate Park. On the northern edge of the park is this Conservatory Of Flowers. Rain or shine, you won’t be disappointed.