This 1925 Spanish Revival-style originally intended to cater to swimmers from Ocean Beach, but was later taken over by the US Armed Forces during WWII. After the war it was used by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) as a social hall and lounge. Falling into disuse, the hall was refurbished and reopened in 1996 for use as the Golden Gate Park visitor center and the Park Chalet restaurant. The restaurant is upstairs, and has sweeping views of the ocean.

The chalet is also noted for its beautiful friezes, frescoes, mosaics and wood-carvings, features added in 1936-37. The frescoes depict San Francisco as it was during the Great Depression. Also check out three-dimensional Golden Gate Park model and the Tuesday and Friday live bands.

• Happy hours are 3pm-6pm

• Bus 18 stop Fulton St & Great Hwy
• Bus 5, 5R stop Fulton St & La Playa St

Love this? Explore the entire list of places to visit in San Francisco before you plan your trip.

Fancy a good night's sleep after a tiring day? Check out where to stay in San Francisco and book an accommodation of your choice.