Photo courtesy of James R. Smith
Next Tuesday night, California historian James R. Smith will be at the Conservatory of Flowers to give a special lecture “San Francisco’s Playland at the Beach: The Early Years 1914-1945”.
Smith will share rare photos and stories from his book about the once bustling amusement park that sat across from Ocean Beach on the Great Highway.
You’ll start your evening with a private viewing of the Conservatory’s delightful garden railway exhibition, “Playland at the Conservatory.” While you’re there, try your hand at vintage arcade games and chat with former Playland carny Marvin Gold who will be on hand to answer questions and tell you about the memorabilia. Then sit back and enjoy the ride as Smith explores the phenomenon that was Playland at the Beach.
We’re giving away a pair of passes to the event. To enter, simply send us an email via our contact form by Friday, February 3 at 12noon. We’ll draw a winner randomly from the entries.
The lecture begins at 7pm, doors open at 6pm for viewing the Playland exhibition beforehand. And even if you don’t win the free pair of passes, tickets are only $5 per person.
Sarah B.
Playland, 1962. Courtesy SFPL.
Playland, 1949. Courtesy of SFPL
Seems like when Playland was demolished in 1972, it left a void that’s still here today. It was among the fun things to do, especially on weekends.
One wonders if things really got better or worse with progressing time.
One of my fondest memories as a child was being taken by my Mom and Dad from San Leandro to Playland at the Beach and playing in the fun house with is rotating tunnel and its “huuuuuge” slide. Thanks for the memory
I love the “No Loitering” sign. Makes you wonder why this was such an issue. :o)
WE CELEBRATED MY 10TH BIRTHDAY PARTY HERE THE YEAR IT CLOSED. I’LL NEVER FORGET THE FUN WE HAD ON THE BIG WOODEN SLIDE AND THAT WONDERFUL “TURNTABLE” THAT SPUN YOU ROUND AND AROUND UNTIL IT MANAGED TO FLING YOU OFF, LAUGHING. I HAVEN’T EVER SEEN RIDES AGAIN THE LIKES OF THOSE AT PLAYLAND. SO SAD IT WASN’T THERE FOR MY KIDS TO ENJOY.