What are the nearest attractions to Presidio?

Attractions near Presidio: Walt Disney® Family Museum Palace of Fine Arts Crissy Field

What else should I know about attractions in San Francisco?

As well as visiting the Presidio, check out these trip ideas to make the most of your visit: How to Prepare for Whale Watching in the San Francisco Bay How to Get Off the Beaten Path in San Francisco Visiting San Francisco for the First Time? Here's What to See and Do

Presidio - What To Know BEFORE You Go

The Basics

The Presidio is part of Golden Gate National Recreation Area and is managed mostly by the Presidio Trust. Perched on the city’s northwest corner, it’s unique among national park sites: In addition to a variety of recreational activities, it’s also home to residential houses, businesses, and a school. Visit on a bike tour, GoCar tour, or a small-group tour by VW van or vintage fire truck, or see it from above on a helicopter ride.

To explore on your own, start at the Presidio Officers’ Club or the visitor center to get oriented and ask any questions you have. Attractions and experiences on offer include hiking, golfing, bowling, sailing, beaches, military buildings, the Walt Disney Family Museum, and four pieces of art around the park by artist Andy Goldsworthy.

Things to Know Before You Go

Unlike most national parks, the Presidio is free to visit.
Most of its parking lots and street parking require a fee, but there are some free spaces.
The Main Post is the heart of the park, where you’ll find the Presidio Visitor Center, Officers’ Club, the Inn at the Presidio, and the Presidio Trust offices.
The Presidio is large, so you may end up walking more than you planned; wear comfortable shoes and keep water with you.

Trip ideas

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When to Get There

Arrive in the late morning to plan your day from the visitor, while still leaving enough time to see everything you want. Events take place throughout the year, including outdoor family movies, live music, and cultural programs at the Officers’ Club. The Presidio Picnic runs on Sundays from March through October with a rotating selection of food trucks.

Palace of Fine Arts

The Palace of Fine Arts is not part of the Presidio but sits adjacent to the park’s northeastern edge, so it’s easy to visit at the same time. This European-looking monument was originally built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition; today, it’s a great spot for photos and relaxing by the duck pond.

Presidio