San Francisco may be one of the busiest metropolitan cities in the country, but that doesn’t mean greenery is nowhere to be found. In fact, one of the jewels of San Francisco’s public park system is the Presidio. 

The Presidio has lived through quite an interesting history. The U.S. Army first seized it during the Mexican-American War, and the site became a military base for generations of U.S. soldiers who lived and worked in the Presidio. Then, in 1994, the army gave up the base to the National Park Service under the condition that the site could become financially self-sufficient by 2013. If the park did not achieve that goal, the land would be sold off to interested buyers. Thankfully, the Presidio met its goal and is now a prime spot for tourists, hikers, nature lovers, art enthusiasts, and more. If you have a day to spend at the Presidio, these are the best places to check out. 

Batteries to Bluffs Trail

Batteries to bluff trail, San Francisco

On this picturesque trail, hikers can traverse foliage-covered cliffs, making their way down to the Pacific Ocean over the course of a mile. As you get closer and closer to the water, you’ll pass former military bunkers. The views are spectacular and will make you feel like you’re standing on the edge of the world while also traveling back in time. 

Presidio Officers’ Club

Photo courtesy of Presidio Officers’ Club

Meeting friends for a bite or looking to socialize with fellow history buffs? This club is the social center of the Presidio. It features a Mexican restaurant called Arguello, a museum gallery with striking artwork for visitors to admire, and special weekend events such as music performances and family-friendly arts and crafts workshops.

The Commissary

Photo courtesy of The Commissary

Back in 1776, the Presidio was originally built as an outpost for colonial Spain before passing to Mexico and then the U.S. To pay homage to the park’s history, visitors can dine at The Commissary, a restaurant serving up Spanish dishes including chickpea galetta and jamon-wrapped trout. The building that houses the eatery was once a mess hall for U.S. soldiers, so you can eat where members of the military once did.

Walt Disney Family Museum

Photo courtesy of Walt Disney Family Museum

Walt Disney influenced the childhoods of millions of people who grew up watching Disney movies, dressing up as beloved characters, and dreaming of their own fairy-tale ending. Prepare to be nostalgic for your childhood when you visit the Walt Disney Family Museum. Check out the digital exhibits to see how Walt Disney shaped decades of American culture. 

Earth Wall

Photo courtesy of Andy Goldsworthy’s Earth Wall

Designed by world-renowned sculptor Andy Goldsworthy, the Presidio’s famous Earth Wall is a sphere of eucalyptus roots that appears half-excavated from a mud wall, representing the park’s archaeological fascinations. This wall marked the sculptor’s fourth installation in the national park.

Off the Grid

Photo courtesy of Off the Grid

Want to sample food from different kinds of food trucks? Put together your own perfect meal by picking something up from every food truck at Off the Grid, an event that transforms the park into a foodie heaven. Even if you’re not a history buff or a nature lover, you’ll relish in all of the different cuisines and flavor combinations you’ll get to immerse your taste buds in.