JFK Promenade was closed to cars in 2020, making it a regular haven for bikers, runners, and people exploring Golden Gate Park. Since then, the car-free Promenade has been filled with cool activities, such as public pianos, unique art, and even a popular beer garden in the summer.
The car-free stretch of Golden Gate Park is celebrating four years with new activations, including a new iteration of the popular beer garden. The new watering hole is called the Whale’s Tail, featuring a new menu of brunch cocktails, beer, and wine. Live music, food trucks, and fun interactive games will also regularly pop up at the new space, which culminates near the Street Whale art in the middle of the Promenade.
The Whale’s Tail will open this weekend, May 25, starting at 12 pm. For the rest of the summer, you can enjoy the venue on Saturdays and Sundays from 12- 6 pm.
“For those looking to bask in the beauty of nature and the lively atmosphere of JFK Promenade, The Whale’s Tail is the perfect spot to drop anchor in Golden Gate Park,” said Rec and Park General Manager Phil Ginsburg. “It’s the perfect mix of music, food, art, and connection.”
In addition to the Whale‘s Tail, new installations are coming to the car-free road to kick off the summer. Installed several weeks ago, Nature’s Future is Our Future, includes historical markers in the future that emphasize the importance of climate solutions. Refurbished grand pianos will also make an appearance as part of the Golden Mile Project.
JFK Promenade was closed to cars in April 2020 and has since seen 12.6 million visits. Illuminate, an arts and culture nonprofit in SF, started the Golden Mile Project in 2022 to help transform the road into the vibrant space it now is. They installed murals, art, and grand pianos for the public to enjoy.
The car-free initiative came during the Pandemic, but legislation was introduced after two years to make it permanent. Now, it sees thousands of visitors every day to explore the art and new activations.