The Constantly Evolving San Francisco Presidio

The Golden Gate Bridge looms large in San Francisco. Visitors come to see this magnificent bridge that is often shrouded in the Pacific Ocean fog. However, many people miss the expansive 1500 plus acre San Francisco Presidio adjacent, whose grounds serve as the anchor for the western end of this internationally recognizable bridge.

Steps away from the city, the Presidio unfolds as one enters the expansive space. If you have not visited, there is something for you to learn or experience around every corner.

History of the San Francisco Presidio

Home to the indigenous Ramaytush Ohlone people for nearly 10,000 years, the Spaniards claimed this area as their northern post in 1776 and built the fort which they controlled until 1821 when Mexico declared its independence from Spain. News traveled slowly, so it took a year for Mexico to make it to the Presidio. Even then, there were no changes. In 1935 a Mexican General assigned a caretaker to the Presidio.

In 1847, the Mexican American War resulted in the Presidio being turned over to the U.S. Army and it became the most significant military base on the West Coast. There were five commanders of the Presidio, each with a district, and interestingly those areas still carry the name of those commanders today.

In 1994, the Army turned the magnificent location over to the U.S. National Park Service and the Presidio Trust, founded in 1996, so that all could see and appreciate this historically and environmentally rich 1500 acres.

Pristine Beaches

The beach proved to be one of the biggest surprises to me at the San Francisco Presidio. Visitors often miss this beautiful sandy beach south of the bridge that beckons you to come and spend some time.

It provides the perfect place to take off your shoes and walk along the shore while enjoying the views of Alcatraz and Angel Island. Pack a picnic lunch. Relax and enjoy the cool breeze as you soak in some afternoon sun.

Explore the Wetlands

With environmental concerns in place, guardians of the area worked to have this transitional area from the beach to other parts of the Presidio brought back to its natural habitat, complete with native plants. A lovely walkway protects the plants and the wildlife that is calling this area their home.

Archeology Digs

With approximately 30 sites to oversee, an archaeology team supervises the excavation of anything that occurs within the confines of the 1500 acres. Items found are documented and remain archived for research and educational purposes.

Parade Ground Welcomes You

The military once conducted their parades on this vast open space. Now, this wide-open area provides a gathering place for family and friends to share a picnic or let children frolic.

The repurposed buildings standing proudly around it include the Presidio Visitor Center, the Presidio Lodge, the Walt Disney Family Museum, and an authentic munitions shed.

National Cemetery

The National Cemetery on the Presidio covers 28 acres. The oldest national cemetery on the West Coast serves as the final resting place for 30,000 Americans. Buffalo soldiers and Medal of Honor recipients rest here. Chester W. Nimitz, WWII Commander of the Pacific Fleet, requested to be laid to rest here with many of his men lost in battle.

At the very top of the cemetery, an incredible ocean view stretches as far as the eye can see.

Stop for Lunch

All the walking and sightseeing can work up quite the appetite. The perfect place to satisfy your hunger urge is Sessions, located in the Lettermen section of the Presidio. With the help of George Lucas, this area has been repurposed and his Digital Design Center is located here.

Sessions offers an expansive outdoor patio. Even more impressive,  the interior boasts various niches suitable for meetings or family reunions. Plentiful restaurant windows help to showcase the beautiful wood accents throughout.

A conversation with the manager revealed that most of the organic food at the restaurant comes from George Lucas’s Skywalker Ranch about 20 miles north of the Presidio. Wagyu beef on the menu comes from the ranch, and the tasty vegetables are seasoned with the ranch’s herbs.

One cannot talk about this restaurant without mentioning George Lucas’s chardonnay served with our delicious lunch. The wine is not sold in stores and served at only five restaurants, though you can buy a bottle at the restaurant.

Historic Hotel

Once the bachelor quarters of the Army’s officers, this magnificent building is the perfect place to stay when exploring the Presidio. The minute you approach the building, you sense it will be a place to relax. The porch is lined with wooden rocking chairs and small tables that beckon you to come out with your coffee or glass of wine at the end of the day.

The friendly and knowledgeable staff is quick to welcome you and make check-in a pleasure. There was not one question they were not able to answer.  More importantly, they gave me enough information to start exploring with ease—an example, sharing information about the complimentary transportation that takes you to all corners of the Presidio.

My suite, decorated with appropriate period furniture, had fascinating historic photos and prints. Indeed, it felt like I had stepped back in time when quality and elegance were the norm. The comfortable bed and luxurious linens will likely have you staying in bed a little longer than you planned.

In Conclusion

If you are planning a trip to the West Coast, the San Francisco Presidio should be on your must-do list. Rich with history, majestic views, pristine beaches, and miles of hiking trails, this 1500-acre national park provides visitors with an array of activities. Your adventure here will be one you will remember for a long time.