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Presidio of San Francisco

 

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Presidio of San Francisco

For 218 years, the Presidio served as an army post for three nations. World and local events, from military campaigns to the rise of aviation, from World Fairs to earthquakes, left their mark. Come enjoy the history and beauty of the Presidio. Explore centuries of architecture. Reflect in a national cemetery. Walk through an historic airfield, forests, or to beaches, and admire spectacular vistas.



 The Basics


Hours:

The park is open year-round. Information on points of interest and Presidio history is available at the Visitor Center located in the Officers’‘ Club, Building 50, on Moraga Avenue near Arguello Boulevard. The Visitor Center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years day.

Address: Building 201
Fort Mason
San Francisco, CA 94123
Phone: 415-561-4323


 Map

Presidio of San Francisco, California Map


Click here for a full-sized map of Presidio of San Francisco

 Directions

The Presidio can be reached from the north by crossing the Golden Gate Bridge (Highways 1 and 101); from the east by way of Lombard Street (Highway 101); and from the south via Highway 1.


 Climate
 

The climate is Mediterranean, with wet winters and dry summers that tend to be windy and cool throughout much of the park. Summers are foggy, with the best weather in spring and fall. Dress in layers. Hiking boots are appropriate in some areas. Comfortable shoes are recommended in San Francisco, as there will be much walking on asphalt or on sidewalks.

Link to our San Francisco Weather coverage for more information.

Link to our San Francisco Weather coverage for more information.

 Fees
 

No Fees.


 Reservations
 

Reservations suggested for activities.


 Things To Do
 

Outdoor Activities

The Presidio contains 11 miles of hiking trails, including the Golden Gate Promenade, the Coastal Trail, an ecology trail, and portions of the Bay Area Ridge Trail, the Bay Trail, and the Anza National Historic Trail. Cyclists can explore the area on 14 miles of paved roads and along some unpaved parts of the Bay Area Ridge Trail. A world-class board-sailing area borders Crissy Field, while fishing and crabbing opportunities abound from the nearby rocks and pier. The park also contains numerous sports facilities, including a golf course, bowling alley, tennis courts and athletic fields. Of special notice is the opportunity for photography of scenic views of the Bay Area and the Presidio's historic architecture.


 Guided Tours
 

In addition to scheduled events, the National Park Service at the Presidio offers a variety of scheduled ranger and docent led programs, and group programs that can be arranged by appointment in advance.

Below is a list of group programs offered by reservation only. Reservations accepted up to two months in advance of requested date. Allow three weeks to process requests.

On –Or Off-Site Programs

Presented at the Presidio Visitor Center or your site.
Presidio Presentation - 1 hour - adult
What’s happening on the Presidio? A program about the general history and current plans for the National Park site.

Experience Your America - 1 hour - 9 years old to adult
Become familiar with the mission, diversity and opportunities within your National Parks during this hands-on presentation (max. 30 people).

Outdoor Park Programs

Presented within the Presidio's boundaries, minimum 10 & maximum 30 people.
Changing Cultures - 2 hours - 8 to 12 years old
Discover the human history of the Presidio through the changing cultures and inhabitants of this area.

Urban Nature Discovery - 2 hours - 4 to 10 years old
A forest in the city? Come explore the natural creatures and plants that call the urban forest their home.

Houses, Heroes, & History - 2 hours - Adult
Explore the heart of the Presidio, learning about this former Army Post’s past and plans for its future.

Crissy Field Then & Now - 1 1/2 hours - Adult
Experience the transformation of Crissy Field and learn how the restoration project connects the its past to its future.

The Last Gun - 1/2 hour - 7 years old to adult
How could a 50-ton gun disappear? Participate in a demonstration of this last operational 1905 gun of its kind at Battery Chamberlin.

Bus Tours

Transportation not included.
Tour the entire Presidio on your bus with a park guide. Visit sites of historical significance, natural beauty, and future projects.


 Nearby Attractions
 

National Park Service Areas

  • Fort Point National Historic Site, 0 miles
  • San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, 3 miles

Other Attractions

  • Exploratorium, 0 miles
  • Golden Gate Bridge, 0 miles

Link to our San Francisco Attractions coverage for more information.

Link to our San Francisco Attractions coverage for more information.


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