Beloved for its tranquil outdoor exploration, countless things to do, and spectacular views of the bay, it’s no wonder why the Presidio of San Francisco attracts 7.5 million visitors a year. Newest to join the Presidio line-up is our very own Round House Cafe, where you can grab a cup of your favorite specialty coffee before setting out to explore the park in all its glory. Not sure where to begin? We put together this field guide to our perfect day in and around the Presidio. Trust us, you’ll want to bring your camera for this.
Lyon Street Steps
(Photo credit: @nessa_miranda)
A walk through the Presidio will give your daily step count a boost, but if you want to get in a few more — 332 to be exact — begin your day by scaling the Lyon Street Steps. The top of the steps gives way to an expansive view of the San Francisco Bay, including the Palace of Fine Arts and Alcatraz.
The Wood Line and Lovers’ Lane 
(Photo credit: Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy)
Snaking through the eucalyptus grove on the east side of the Presidio is one of the park’s must-sees: the Wood Line. The 1200 feet of branches winding through the eucalyptus grove are actually an art sculpture designed by renowned artist Andy Goldsworthy in 2010. If you’re a birdwatcher, bring your binoculars and keep an eye out for forest-dwelling birds.
For a more direct and paved route, follow the 0.6-mile Lovers’ Lane path that connects the Presidio Gate to the Main Post. Soldiers used to walk this route on their way to meet their sweethearts in town. Now, it’s a path for a peaceful stroll in the Presidio.
Spire
(Photo credit: Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy)
You can’t miss looping around to Spire, another breathtaking and photo-worthy outdoor sculpture crafted by Andy Goldsworthy. Constructed in 2008 from 37 fallen Monterey cypress trees and standing at 100 feet tall, Spire symbolizes the rejuvenation and regrowth of the Presidio forest.
Scenic Overlooks
(Photo credit: Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy)
As you make your way through the Presidio, make sure to stop at all the scenic viewpoints such as the overlook at the Cemetery, Inspiration Point, Crissy Field Overlook, and Golden Gate Overlook. Each viewpoint has a unique perspective of San Francisco Bay that you need to see to believe while in the Presidio.
Baker Beach
(Photo credit: Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy)
If you love the beach, there’s no better place in the Presidio than Baker Beach. This tiny sliver of coastline is a not-so-hidden city gem where you can listen to the waves crash and enjoy a view of the Golden Gate Bridge with the sand beneath your feet.
Hike the Batteries to Bluffs Trail 
(Photo credit: Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy)
Just above Baker Beach is the Batteries to Bluffs Trail. This 0.7-mile hike along the coastline takes you to the old artillery batteries that now serve as hot spots to take in Pacific Ocean views and snap some photos.
Stop for a Coffee at Round House Cafe
If your hike takes you near the Golden Gate Bridge, take a break and warm up with a coffee at the Equator Coffees Round House Cafe. The Round House has been a historic San Francisco institution since 1938, and we’re proud to call it our newest home in the Bay Area. Whether you’re walking or biking, the Equator Coffees Round House Cafe is the perfect pit stop to recharge ahead of traversing the Golden Gate Bridge.
Explore Historic Crissy Field 
(Photo credit: Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy)
Head to Crissy Field for a view of the bay that encompasses Alcatraz, Angel Island, and the Golden Gate Bridge. At any time of the day, you’ll find tourists and locals alike enjoying a walk or bike ride on the trails, playing games on Crissy Field, or hanging out at the beach. It’s hard to believe that Crissy Field was once an airfield, and we’re so glad it was transformed into a park. Crissy Field is where you want to be when the weather is nice in San Francisco. If the conditions are just right, keep an eye out for kite-surfers, windsurfers, and sailboats.
Grab a Souvenir from the Warming Hut Park Store
Walk along the water’s edge at Crissy Field to the West Bluff and Torpedo Wharf and you’ll find the Warming Hut Park Store. If you want to pick up a unique, locally-made souvenir, the Warming Hut Park Store is the best place to do it, with proceeds benefiting Bay Area national parks via the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy. Originally built in 1909, the Warming Hut is a landmark itself and worth the visit to see its design and step into a piece of history.
About our Partner, the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy
Since 1981, the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy has worked to connect people to national parks through volunteering, educational programs, and community outreach. A few of our favorite national park sites that the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy supports include the Presidio, Lands End, Crissy Field, the Marin Headlands, and Muir Woods.
You can join the dedicated Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy community by becoming a member, making a donation, or volunteering. Click here to learn more about the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy and how you can support this community and the Golden Gate National Parks that we all love.
