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San Francisco, California / Landmarks

Dutch Windmill and Queen Wilhelmina Tulip Garden

A picturesque landmark at the west end of Golden Gate Park featuring a historic 1902 Dutch windmill and a vibrant tulip garden donated by Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands.

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Where is the Dutch Windmill and Queen Wilhelmina Tulip Garden located?

It is located at 47th Avenue and Great Highway at the west end of Golden Gate Park in San Francisco.

What is the Dutch Windmill known for?

Recognized as San Francisco Landmark #147, the windmill was built in 1902 to capture westerly winds from the Pacific Ocean to pump water for the park's irrigation system.

When is the best time to see the tulips in bloom?

The tulips in the garden are usually in full bloom in March.

Are there times when the garden is closed?

Yes, the Queen Wilhelmina Garden is closed every year during the entire months of May and October for annual re-planting.

What is the history of the Queen Wilhelmina Tulip Garden?

In 1902, Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands donated a colorful tulip garden, thousands of tulips, and a Dutch windmill to the City of San Francisco as a symbol of friendship and ties between the Netherlands and San Francisco.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Dutch Windmill and Queen Wilhelmina Tulip Garden stand as a symbol of friendship between the Netherlands and San Francisco. The windmill, recognized as San Francisco Landmark #147, was conceived by John McLaren and Adolph Spreckels and designed by Alpheus Bull Jr. It was constructed in 1902 at a cost of $25,000. Strategically positioned at 47th Avenue and Great Highway, the windmill was sited near the Pacific Ocean to capture westerly winds. This energy was used to pump water for the irrigation system of Golden Gate Park. In the same year of 1902, Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands donated thousands of tulips and the windmill to the city. Below the grand structure lies the Queen Wilhelmina Tulip Garden, which was cosmetically restored and landscaped in 1980. The garden continues to receive flower bulb donations from the Dutch Bulb Growers’ Association. These tulips typically reach full bloom in March, creating a colorful landscape of flower beds and green lawns. Visitors should be aware that the garden undergoes annual re-planting and is closed every year during the entire months of May and October. While the site is a popular public landmark, it also serves as an event venue with a maximum capacity of 200 people, or 100 people for receptions.

Visitor tips

  • Visit in March to see the tulips in full bloom.
  • Avoid visiting in May or October, as the garden is closed for annual re-planting.
  • Combine your visit with a stop at the nearby Arsicault Bakery for a treat.

Nearby context

Located at the westernmost edge of Golden Gate Park, this landmark sits near the intersection of 47th Avenue and the Great Highway. It is within walking distance of the highly-regarded Arsicault Bakery.

Sources

Evidence and links