Grant's
San Francisco
Travel Guide

The Neighborhoods of San Francisco - The Presidio

The Presidio is located on the northwest tip of the San Francisco peninsula. It served as a military post under the flags of Spain (1776-1822), Mexico (1822-48), and the United States (1848-1994). On October 1, 1994, the Presidio became part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

Today, visitors enjoy the history and beauty of the Presidio. Within its boundaries are more than 500 historic buildings, a collection of coastal defense fortifications, a national cemetery, an historic airfield, a saltwater marsh, forests, beaches, native plant habitats, coastal bluffs, miles of hiking and biking, and some of the most spectacular vistas in the world.

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.

Cost: There is no charge to visit any part of the Presidio.

Operating Hours: The Presidio is open year round, although some of the centers and attractions within the Presidio observe national holidays. Hours for most centers and attractions are 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Getting Around: 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. San Francisco (MUNI) buses serve the Presidio via the 28, 29, 43 and 82X lines.

The Presidio can be explored on foot, bicycle or by car.

The Presidio Trust provides free shuttle service within the Presidio and to nearby public transit stops. Click here for more information on PresidiGo.