Kezar Stadium

Kezar Stadium Visiting Hours, Tickets, and San Francisco Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Kezar Stadium is a storied landmark at the southeastern edge of Golden Gate Park, deeply woven into San Francisco’s sporting and cultural heritage. Since opening in 1925, it has evolved from a grand concrete bowl seating nearly 60,000 to a modern, community-focused venue accommodating 10,000 visitors. As the original home of the San Francisco 49ers and a hub for high school, collegiate, and community sports, Kezar’s legacy is felt citywide. Its dynamic history, ongoing renovations, and accessibility make it an essential stop for sports enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone exploring San Francisco’s historical sites.

This comprehensive guide details Kezar Stadium’s history, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, transportation, and nearby attractions, ensuring you have all the information you need for a rewarding visit.

(sfrecpark.org)
(en.wikipedia.org)
(sfexaminer.com)
(secretsanfrancisco.com)

Kezar Stadium east view during high school track and field event

New Kezar Arch at Golden Gate Park in San Francisco

New press box at Kezar Stadium in vibrant colors under a clear blue sky

New Kezar Stadium West End exterior view

Old Kezar Stadium East Scoreboard showing game information

Kezar Stadium aerial view with football field and surrounding seating

Kezar Stadium entrance with vintage marquee sign

Kezar Stadium: A San Francisco Historic Gem

Kezar Stadium is more than a sports venue; it’s a living piece of San Francisco’s history. Its location at the edge of Golden Gate Park places it close to cultural districts like Haight-Ashbury and Cole Valley, making it a gateway to both athletic and civic experiences.

Origins and Early Years

Born from a civic vision in the early 1920s, Kezar’s construction began in 1924 and concluded the following year. The stadium was financed by a blend of private philanthropy and city investment and was originally designed to hold nearly 60,000 spectators, making it one of the West Coast’s largest at the time. Its central location and accessibility via public transit established it as a hub for San Francisco’s burgeoning sports culture (Wikipedia).

From the outset, Kezar was a multipurpose venue, hosting track and field, soccer, rugby, boxing, and even cricket. Important local institutions—Santa Clara University, University of San Francisco, St. Mary’s College, and several prominent high schools—used Kezar as their home field. Notably, in 1928, the stadium set a Northern California high school attendance record with more than 50,000 spectators (Wikipedia).

The 49ers Era and Professional Sports

Kezar’s most enduring legacy is as the original home of the San Francisco 49ers, who played there from 1946 to 1970. The stadium’s unique atmosphere—intimate, raucous, and often shrouded in fog—became legendary among fans and players. Kezar also briefly hosted the Oakland Raiders during their inaugural AFL season (SF Examiner). Its role in launching San Francisco’s professional football legacy is commemorated by historic markers and ongoing community traditions.

Beyond the NFL, Kezar has been home to annual high school championships like the “Turkey Bowl,” prestigious track meets, and soccer matches that reflect the stadium’s versatility (SFMTA).

Community and Cultural Significance

Kezar has hosted more than just sports. It’s been the site of large-scale concerts (including legendary performances by Led Zeppelin, the Grateful Dead, and Bob Dylan), the first two Gay Games, political rallies, and civic gatherings (Concert Archives). Its accessibility and centrality have made it a crucial space for San Francisco’s diverse communities.

Modern Renovations and Community Focus

By the late 1980s, Kezar needed renewal. The city’s 1989 reconstruction reduced capacity to 10,000, added modern amenities, and preserved key architectural elements like the iconic archway and commemorative plaques (Wikipedia). Further renovations in the 2010s improved accessibility, installed new track surfaces, and added seats repurposed from Candlestick Park.

In 2025, Kezar is undergoing a $10 million upgrade ahead of the Golden City Football Club’s professional soccer debut. The project includes a new natural grass field, ADA improvements, new seating, upgraded sound and lighting systems, and enhanced concessions (California Construction News).

Visiting Kezar Stadium: Practical Information

Location

Address: 710 Ashbury St, San Francisco, CA 94117 (Frederick St & Stanyan St)
Main Entrances: Frederick Street & Stanyan Street
(The Tourist Checklist)

Public Transportation

Kezar is easily accessed via public transit:

Muni Metro: N-Judah line (Carl & Stanyan stop)
Muni Buses: Lines 7, 33, 37, and 43
(SF Rec & Park)

Parking

Parking is limited and subject to fees. Arrive early on event days, and consider using public transit or biking. Nearby neighborhoods may offer additional paid parking, but congestion is common (The Tourist Checklist).

Visiting Hours

Public Access: Typically open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Track & Field: Open for jogging and walking when not reserved for events
Events: Hours and access may vary; check the official event calendar for details

Tickets and Entry

Community Use: Free access to the track and field when not reserved
Professional / Special Events: Tickets required for matches (e.g., Golden City Football Club), available online or at the box office
Reservation Info: For field bookings, contact SF Rec & Park at 415-831-2700 (Girls Leading Goals)

Facilities and Amenities

Seating: 10,000 capacity; enhanced ADA-compliant seating and clear sightlines
Concessions: Available during major events; renovations will add new options
Restrooms: Upgraded and accessible
Accessibility: Wheelchair ramps, accessible restrooms, and designated seating (California Construction News)

Activities and Events

Sports: Home to high school football, collegiate track, soccer (Golden City Football Club, SF City FC), and more
Public Recreation: Track open for jogging/walking; open fields for fitness
Special Events: Concerts, rallies, festivals—see event calendar
Guided Tours: Occasional tours during special events; inquire on the official website

Visitor Tips

Best Times: Weekday mornings and early afternoons are quieter; event days are more lively
What to Bring: Dress in layers for foggy weather, bring sun protection, and a reusable bottle
Conduct: Follow stadium policies; outside alcohol and large bags may be restricted
Photography: The historic arch, field, and surrounding park offer great photo opportunities

Nearby Attractions

Golden Gate Park: Explore gardens, lakes, and museums like the California Academy of Sciences and de Young Museum
Haight-Ashbury: Shop, dine, and discover counterculture history
Cole Valley: Enjoy local cafes and unique boutiques
(The Tourist Checklist)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Kezar Stadium’s visiting hours?
A: Daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM; subject to change during events.

Q: Are tickets required?
A: Community use is free; tickets required for professional or special events.

Q: Is the stadium ADA accessible?
A: Yes, with accessible seating, ramps, and restrooms.

Q: What’s the best way to get there?
A: Public transit (Muni Metro and buses) is recommended due to limited parking.

Q: Can I reserve the field for a group or event?
A: Yes, through the SF Recreation and Park Department or by calling 415-831-2700.

Visuals and Resources

Image Suggestion: Kezar Stadium’s iconic concrete arch entrance (“Kezar Stadium entrance in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco”)

Explore More San Francisco Historical Sites

Contact and Further Information

San Francisco Recreation and Park Department – Kezar Stadium
Kezar Event Calendar
Girls Leading Goals – Kezar Stadium Field Info
The Tourist Checklist – Kezar Stadium
Phone: 415-831-2700 / Recreation Program Registration: 415-831-6800

Conclusion

Kezar Stadium embodies San Francisco’s enduring spirit—combining historic significance, athletic achievement, and community engagement. Whether you’re attending a major sporting event, jogging on the track, or exploring Golden Gate Park, Kezar invites you to experience the city’s past and present. For the latest on hours, tickets, events, and renovations, visit official resources and download the Audiala app for real-time updates. Make Kezar Stadium a highlight of your San Francisco journey!