The Presidio of San Francisco, California has served as an army post for three nations over more than 200 years. In addition, the 1500-acre site is home to hundreds of years of architecture, has been host to World’s Fairs, an historic airfield, a national cemetery, and includes forests, open grassy fields and beaches. There are five Visitor Centers in the park, and three museums. Visitor Centers include the William Penn Mott Jr. Visitor Center, a refurbished historic guardhouse from the early 1900’s offering views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

  • What interactive exhibits can visitors explore at the Presidio?
    • The Presidio features a state-of-the-art large-scale model of the park surrounded by informative touch screen panels.
    • Video walls display daily events.
    • Shadow art displays accompany oral histories of community members explaining the Presidio’s importance to them.
  • What historic sites and museums are located at the Presidio?
    • Fort Point is a brick fort built in 1861 to defend San Francisco Bay.
    • The Presidio Officer’s Club houses exhibits on the history of the Presidio’s role in shaping the nation.
    • The Battery Chamberlin Museum displays coastal defense artillery dating back to the late 1800s.
    • The Walt Disney Family Museum tells the story of Disney’s life and achievements, including:
      • Early animations and drawings
      • Music and movies
      • Recorded oral histories, some narrated by Walt Disney himself
  • What recreational activities are available at the Presidio?
    • The park features 24 miles of hiking and biking trails.
    • Eight scenic overlooks offer views of:
      • The Golden Gate Bridge
      • The National Cemetery
      • Lobos Valley
      • The Pacific Ocean
    • Additional sports and recreational facilities include:
      • A golf course
      • Tennis courts
      • A bowling alley
      • Several athletic fields
    • Crissy Field, a former U.S. Army airfield, now offers:
      • Picnic areas
      • Beach access
      • A swimming pool
      • A climbing center
      • A trampoline house
  • What is the historical significance of the Presidio?
    • The area was originally inhabited by the Ohlone people.
    • In the 1700s, the Spanish established it as the northernmost point of their North American Empire.
    • It was under Mexican rule for 24 years before the U.S. Army seized control during the Mexican-American War of 1846.
    • The Presidio was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1962.
    • It was formally transferred to the National Park Service in 1994.
    • Since 1996, the Presidio Trust has managed the park, preserving its history and infrastructure.
  • What ongoing programs and educational activities are available?
    • The park hosts a variety of recreation and wellness events.
    • Cycling events include:
      • Family-friendly bike rides
      • Learn-to-ride days for young children
    • Nature programs include:
      • An annual Monarch Butterfly Walk
      • Guided Presidio Bird Walks
    • Guided Art Hikes visit the park’s outdoor art installations.
    • Ranger-led tours include:
      • Fort Point History Tours
      • Main Post: Past and Present
      • Other architectural walking tours

Presidio of San Francisco, California, 210 Lincoln Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94129, Phone: 415-561-4323

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