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Tucked into the western edge of Golden Gate Park, the Murphy Windmill is more than just a charming photo op—it’s a remarkable piece of San Francisco history. Once essential to keeping the park green and thriving, this restored windmill now stands tall as a tribute to innovation, community spirit, and sustainability.
If you’re joining a San Francisco private tour or cruising by on a small group sightseeing adventure, don’t miss this peaceful corner of the park where history meets beauty.
Back in 1907, the city faced a problem—Golden Gate Park’s rapidly expanding gardens needed water. Lots of it. The answer? A towering windmill designed to pump groundwater across the park’s grounds.
Funded by local banker Samuel G. Murphy, the windmill that bears his name was one of two giant water-pumping structures installed in the park (its northern counterpart is the Dutch Windmill). These impressive machines weren’t built for show—they worked hard, pumping up to 40,000 gallons of water per hour to transform arid sand dunes into the lush greenery San Franciscans know and love today.
Fun fact:
The Murphy Windmill was one of the largest windmills of its kind in the world at the time. Its 114-foot sail span was a marvel of engineering!
Like many early 20th-century structures, the Murphy Windmill eventually fell into disrepair. Its blades stopped turning. Time and weather took their toll. For decades, it stood as a weathered relic, forgotten by many park visitors.
But San Francisco doesn’t give up on its icons.
Thanks to years of advocacy, community fundraising, and help from the SF Recreation and Park Department, a major restoration effort began. After meticulous work involving international experts and traditional millwrights, the Murphy Windmill was fully restored in 2012.
Today, this once-crumbling structure stands proud again, its elegant sails turning gently in the breeze—a reminder of the city’s commitment to preserving its past while looking toward the future.
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Visiting the Murphy Windmill is like stepping back in time. Whether you’re a history buff or a casual explorer on a custom San Francisco tour, this spot offers a little something for everyone:
Admire the intricate woodwork, towering sails, and unique design elements that made this structure a technological feat more than a century ago.
Right next to the windmill is the recently restored Millwright’s Cottage, which once housed the windmill keeper. While not always open to the public, the exterior alone offers a charming glimpse into early park life.
This part of the park near Ocean Beach is perfect for a laid-back stroll, a picnic, or some Instagram-worthy photography. Look for bright tulip displays in spring—planted in homage to the windmill’s Dutch design roots.
Location:
Western edge of Golden Gate Park, near the intersection of Martin Luther King Jr. Drive and the Great Highway
If you’re booking a personalized SF city tour, let your Jeep tour guide know you’d like to see the Murphy Windmill up close. It’s a perfect addition to any Golden Gate Bridge sightseeing tour or coastal route itinerary.
The Murphy Windmill isn’t just a quirky attraction—it’s a symbol of San Francisco’s ingenuity and heart. Built with purpose, restored with love, and shared with locals and visitors alike, it’s a beautiful blend of history and natural beauty.
The Murphy Windmill is just one of many surprises waiting inside Golden Gate Park. On a San Francisco small-group tour, you’ll roll through scenic park roads, past lakes, gardens, and historic monuments—all in the comfort of an open-air Jeep.
Ready to explore San Francisco like never before?
Book your private small-group Jeep tour today and discover the city’s hidden gems—from historic windmills to sweeping coastal views!
