Purchased by the City in 1868, there are 1,017 acres (one half mile wide and 3 miles long) with meadows, playfields, gardens, lakes and waterfalls. Landscaped by Scotsman John McLaren, this park is a City treasure.

 

McLaren Lodge

(John McLaren's house)

Mr. McLaren garnered international attention for his work at the 1915 Pan Pacific International Exposition. Park Superintendent's Residence, Edward R. Swain, architect. Built in 1896, landmark No. 175. Mr. McLaren was the second Park Superintendent and resided here for 53 years while he held that position
deYoung Museum, 2001

Other treats include a great Victorian conservatory, the Japanese Tea Garden (developed for the 1894 California Midwinter International Exposition),M. H. de Young Memorial Museum, Strybing Arboretum, polo field, windmills and buffalo!

I recommend spending a few hours driving and walking around this unique Park. I particularly enjoy driving through and meandering through it in the late afternoon when the sun filters at an angle through the large tree canopies. The effect is magical.
The Music Concourse

Poeme de la Vigne

 

Stow Lake