San Francisco’s suburbs of sorts, these are the city’s largest and most populous neighborhoods, consisting mainly of small (but expensive) homes, shops, and neighborhood restaurants. Although they border Golden Gate Park and Ocean Beach, few tourists venture into “The Avenues,” as these areas are referred to locally, unless they’re on their way to the Cliff House, zoo, or the Palace of the Legion of Honor.

A district unto itself, the 1,017-acre Golden Gate Park consists of dozens of gardens and attractions connected by wooded paths and paved roads. While many worthy sites are clearly visible, there are infinite hidden treasures, so pick up information at McLaren Lodge and Park Headquarters (at Stanyan and Fell sts.; 415/831-2700; open daily; park maps $3) if you want to find the more hidden spots. Of the dozens of special gardens in the park, most recognized are McLaren Memorial Rhododendron Dell, the Rose Garden, Strybing Arboretum, and, at the western edge of the park, a springtime array of thousands of tulips and daffodils around the Dutch windmill. For anyone who wants to hit the great outdoors in the heart of a bustling city, the park contains lots of recreational facilities: tennis courts; baseball, soccer, and polo fields; a golf course; riding stables; and fly-casting pools. The Strawberry Hill boathouse also handles boat rentals.