Presidio
This 1480-acre green space at the northwest edge of the peninsula was a military post for 200 years, under Spain, Mexico and the United States. Containing some 500 historic buildings, it was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1962, and became part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area in 1994. The area is an unusual blend of residential, recreational and commercial. Civilians live in houses and apartments once reserved for the military, and the former army hospital is now the Letterman Digital Arts Center, home to LucasArts and Industrial Light and Magic. Hikers and cyclists can enjoy miles of hilly roads and trails, offering panoramic ocean views, while new art installations harmonize with and celebrate the natural landscape.
Crissy Field, a long, grassy strip along the Bay, was initially built as an air base. For years it was covered with asphalt until a community-driven restoration in the late 1990s returned the tidal marshes and dunes to their natural state. A wide promenade trail, popular with cyclists and runners, was put in, leading from the Marina Green to Fort Point. The sandy, dog-friendly beach is a favorite place for picnics and windsurfing (experts only).
topSights and Museums
Presidio Visitor Center
Tel: (415) 561-4323
Open daily 9am-5pm
Temporarily located at 105 Montgomery Street at the bottom of the Main Post parade ground.
The center offers free maps and publications about points of interest within the park. Many ranger and docent-led tours also leave from here.
Main Post
The heart of the Presidio, the Main Post marks the site of the Spanish garrison established here in 1776. It later fell under Mexican control, and starting in 1848, was a U.S. Army post for 140 years. The oldest buildings in the Presidio can be found here, including the Officer’s Club, which was part of the original Spanish Presidio.
Refugee Cottages
After the devastating 1906 earthquake, thousands of refugees sheltered at the Presidio. As winter approached, the city built 5,300 “earthquake shacks,” two of which can still be seen behind the old post hospital at Lincoln and Funston Aves.
Lover’s Lane
The Presidio’s oldest foot trail, this scenic, 200-year-old path is so named because soldiers followed it to meet their sweethearts in the city.
Walt Disney Family Museum
104 Montgomery Street, The Presidio
Tel: (415) 345-6800
Open Wed-Mon 10am-6pm. Last ticket sale and entry 4:45pm. Closed Tue, Jan 1, Thanksgiving Day, and Dec 25
An interactive journey through the life and career of Walt Disney, including his early years, how he got started in animation and the entertainment industry, and the creation of Mickey Mouse. Although the multi-media displays are engrossing, it may be more interesting for older kids and adults than small children.
Fort Point
Open Fri-Sun 10am-5pm
Candlelight tours Sat evenings Nov-Feb; Reservations required.
Tel: (415) 556-1693
Constructed between 1853-1861 at what is now the southern base of the Golden Gate Bridge, this red-brick fortress was designed to protect the city from attack during the Civil War, though its guns were never fired. It became a National Historic Site in 1970. Today the fort offers self-guided and staff-guided tours, cannon-loading demonstrations and a fascinating bookstore. Civil War re-enactments take place periodically (next event is scheduled for Jan 29, 2011).
Baker Beach
Battery Chamberlin Road, Presidio
This mile-long beach on the western edge of the Presidio offers spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Marin Headlands. It’s popular with picnickers and sunbathers – there are picnic areas with tables and grills at the east end of the parking lot. Note: The northernmost end of the beach is frequented by nude sunbathers.
topArt Installations
“Spire”
Bay Area Ridge Trail near the Arguello Gate
Inspired by the history and character of the Presidio forest, artist Andy Goldsworthy created this sculpture using felled, mature trees (Oct 2008).
"Wood Line"
Between Lover’s Lane and Presidio Boulevard
Created in 2010, Andy Goldsworthy's sinuous line of eucalyptus branches (sourced from various Presidio projects) is designed to raise public awareness about the Presidio historic forest.
topRestaurants/Cafes
Warming Hut
Crissy Field
Tel: (415) 561-3040
Originally a U.S. Engineer Storehouse, this historic wooden structure is the perfect place to stop for a hot drink or a snack as you walk along Crissy Field to the bridge. The café serves a delicious selection of organic sandwiches, soups and chili – there’s also a bookstore with environmentally-focused books and gifts.
Presidio Social Club
563 Ruger Street, Presidio
Tel: (415) 885-1888
Housed in what was an enlisted men’s barracks, this casual but stylish restaurant serves classic American fare. Though the décor is modern, there’s a retro feel to the place, like you’re in the USO in the 40s.