Sport and fitness

With some 24 million visitors each year, this is the third most visited park in the US. The crown jewel among the city’s 220 public green spaces, it was founded in 1871 by engineer William Hammond Hall and master gardener John McLaren. Beyond the regular trees, plants and streets of a park, the features here range from the California Academy of Science and Dutch windmills to an archery field and summer festivals. Tour the area by foot, bike or rollerblade.

Part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Fort Funston beach caters to just about everyone. Hikers and horseriders can choose from plentiful trails – including one to Battery Davis, a base for 16-inch guns during the Second World War – while the paved loop walks are suited to wheelchair access. It’s also one of the best places for exercising the dog sans lead. The chief drawcard for many, however, is the 60-metre-tall bluffs. Coupled with the brisk winds, they make this a hang-gliding hotspot. 

Studiomix is a far cry from your typical gym. As its name suggests, the philosophy here is to shake up standard gym routines with considered coaching and upbeat music. The independent fitness studio and full-service health club offers everything from rock climbing (there’s a three-storey indoor rock wall) and barre to spinning and martial arts. All of the above take place in 2,800 square metres of bright, roomy and modern studio space in Little Saigon.