Yerba Buena Center for the Arts (YBCA)

It’s always worth checking to see what exhibitions and dance performances are scheduled at this contemporary complex of galleries and performance spaces, which opened in 1993. The surrounding five acres of lovely gardens provide an inner-city oasis and are a favorite spot for a restful stroll. Samovar Tea Lounge, located on an elevated walkway above the garden’s waterfall and with a nice view, is a good place for an afternoon snack and cup of organic tea. The children’s garden, complete with a carousel, giant slide and planted labyrinth, is the closest San Francisco kids get to Paris’ great children-centric jardins.