Presidio of San Francisco Tours

Presidio of San Francisco which includes landscape views, a monument and a statue or sculpture
Presidio of San Francisco which includes a bridge, rocky coastline and general coastal views
Presidio of San Francisco showing a suspension bridge or treetop walkway, a beach and landscape views
Presidio of San Francisco featuring a park and landscape views
Presidio of San Francisco showing tropical scenes


Discover history, culture, open spaces, spectacular views and the Jedi Master Yoda at this former military base.

The Spanish set up camp here in 1776, and following a brief stint by the Mexicans, the Americans upheld the picture perfect outpost until 1994. This makes it the longest running military base in U.S. history. Today, it is designated a National Historical Landmark District.

This nearly 1,500-acre (590-hectare) expanse contains a championship golf course, a cemetery, hiking trails and the Letterman Digital Arts Center, one of the campuses of filmmaker George Lucas’ company. Wander among the evergreen pines and scramble over monolithic fortifications while the bright red towers of the Golden Gate Bridge seem to keep a watchful eye. For a seaside stroll and stunning views, head to the ruggedly beautiful Baker Beach to the west. The Presidio is home to over 25 miles (40 kilometers) of hiking trails that meander through pristine California coast, right on San Francisco's busting doorstep.

One of the most popular areas within Presidio is Crissy Field, a favored haunt of cyclists, joggers and rollerbladers. Sitting in the shadow of the Golden Gate Bridge, this sprawling sandy stretch of restored marshland is a great picnic spot and the only beach in San Francisco that’s on the shore of the bay.

For intellectual stimulation, try the Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary, the Walt Disney Family Museum, the Battery Chamberlain or the Crissy Fields Center. These sites all provide excellent informative panels and the hands-on activities are sure to be a hit with the kids.

Relics of the Presidio's military past are evident in the parade grounds at Moraga and the San Francisco National Cemetery, the final resting place of more than 30,000 American military veterans and their families. The park’s exceptional diversity is its biggest attraction. In the morning, hike through shaded forests of eucalyptus and cypress trees, and along coastal bluffs. Later in the day, paddle in the Pacific Ocean or stand in front of the Yoda Fountain at the Letterman Digital Arts Center.

On the far north of the San Francisco Peninsula, the Presidio is immediately adjacent to the south of the Golden Gate Bridge. The San Francisco Municipal (Muni) buses, Golden Gate Transit services, the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) and PresidiGo shuttles all service the park. There is now a Presidio Transit Center, which makes the park even more accessible. You can easily ride a bike there, which has the advantage of being a great way to get around the park. A free PresidiGo shuttle service inside the park will also get you around the major points, and there’s also paid parking available within the park.

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Best Lodging Options Near Presidio of San Francisco

Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf

Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf

4 out of 5
2500 Mason St, San Francisco, CA
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

3.5 out of 5
1500 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
My Rosegarden Guest Rooms

My Rosegarden Guest Rooms

2 out of 5
75 20th Ave, San Francisco, CA
My Rosegarden Guest Rooms
Inn at Golden Gate

Inn at Golden Gate

2 out of 5
2707 Lombard St, San Francisco, CA
Inn at Golden Gate
La Luna Inn, Ascend Hotel Collection

La Luna Inn, Ascend Hotel Collection

2.5 out of 5
2599 Lombard St, San Francisco, CA
La Luna Inn, Ascend Hotel Collection
Travelodge by Wyndham Presidio San Francisco

Travelodge by Wyndham Presidio San Francisco

2 out of 5
2755 Lombard St, San Francisco, CA
Travelodge by Wyndham Presidio San Francisco
Marina Motel

Marina Motel

2 out of 5
2576 Lombard Street, San Francisco, CA
Marina Motel
Alpha Inn & Suites

Alpha Inn & Suites

2 out of 5
2505 Lombard Steet, San Francisco, CA
Alpha Inn & Suites
Quiet Garden Apt., geographic center of The City

Quiet Garden Apt., geographic center of The City

San Francisco
Quiet Garden Apt., geographic center of The City
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Presidio of San Francisco

At the Presidio of San Francisco, visitors can enjoy stunning sunsets, vibrant theater performances, and unique shopping experiences. Don't miss out on guided tours that provide insights into the area's history, and explore the scenic presidio trails for breathtaking views. Whether you're planning your trip or looking for activities, the Presidio offers a perfect blend of nature and culture in this iconic destination.

Shopping

Ghirardelli Square, located 3 miles away, offers a delightful mix of shops and entertainment, perfect for souvenirs. Winery Collective and Boudin Bakery, both also 3 miles away, provide unique gifts and iconic local treats, making them must-visit spots for your shopping experience in the Presidio.

Recreation

Oracle Park offers a vibrant atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, just 5 miles from the Presidio. Enjoy thrilling games and the energetic ambiance. Bill Graham Civic Auditorium, located 3 miles away, hosts captivating concerts, perfect for music lovers. For a refreshing outdoor experience, the Presidio Golf Course, only 0.7 miles away, provides a beautiful setting for golf enthusiasts.

Adventure

Explore the Coastal Trail for a scenic hike with stunning views and adventurous vibes, located 2 miles from the Presidio. Enjoy ice skating at the Union Square Ice Rink, a fun activity 3 miles away, or take a leisurely stroll along Perimeter Road, 5 miles away, surrounded by nature.

Nightlife

In the Presidio of San Francisco, you can catch a show at the nearby Orpheum Theatre, just 3 miles away, for a cultural experience. For a cozy movie night, head to the Presidio Theater, 2 miles away. Don't miss the Morrison Planetarium, also 2 miles out, for a stellar evening of entertainment.

Find the best attractions near Presidio of San Francisco

The Presidio of San Francisco offers a diverse range of attractions for all types of travelers, including urban parks, scenic streets, and beautiful beaches. Whether you're seeking cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, or a taste of city life, you'll find plenty to explore within and around the Presidio. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the unique charm of this historic area, which is rich in both natural beauty and cultural significance.

  • Golden Gate Bridge: This iconic symbol of San Francisco, located 0.8 miles from the Presidio, boasts stunning views and a rich history. Walking or biking across the bridge offers a unique perspective on its impressive architecture and the surrounding bay.
  • Golden Gate Park: A sprawling urban oasis 2 miles away, Golden Gate Park invites families and outdoor enthusiasts to explore its gardens, trails, and attractions like the de Young Museum and the California Academy of Sciences, all while enjoying a vibrant city atmosphere.
  • Lombard Street: Known as the "crookedest street in the world," Lombard Street is 3 miles from the Presidio and features eight steep, hairpin turns. A drive or walk down this charming street offers a delightful mix of stunning views and beautiful flower beds.

Best time to go to Presidio of San Francisco

Visitor numbers around Presidio of San Francisco is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Presidio of San Francisco can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Presidio of San Francisco falls in September, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Presidio of San Francisco falls in December, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January51.4°F (10.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
February52.2°F (11.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March53.4°F (11.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April55.8°F (13.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May58.1°F (14.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
June62.1°F (16.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
July63.1°F (17.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
August64.2°F (17.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
September64.9°F (18.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
October62.6°F (17.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowSlightly High
November56.1°F (13.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December51.3°F (10.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Presidio of San Francisco

Visiting the Presidio of San Francisco can be budget-friendly with a few savvy tips. Enjoy free entry to the Presidio and consider traveling during the cheaper months of February and November to December. Fridays are the least expensive days to stay, while Tuesdays are pricier. Use Expedia to find sustainable hotels by filtering for "Eco-certified" options and sort prices from low to high for the best deals. Consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings, and join Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and potential cash back on future stays.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Presidio of San Francisco are February and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August to October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Presidio of San Francisco is Friday. The most expensive day to stay around Presidio of San Francisco is Tuesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to customize your preferences based on your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you prefer. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will show you a list of sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Presidio of San Francisco with your flights and activities by booking an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.