Established as a military base in the mid-19th century, today the Presidio is more than two square miles of swaying eucalyptus groves and gorgeous views. While the Presidio hosts major landmarks such as the Walt Disney Family Museum, it also has endless nooks and crannies just made for stumbling upon. Like art? Check out the Presidio’s two outdoor Andy Goldsworthy creations—the Wood Line, which parallels Lover’s Lane, and the Spire, which towers over the Bay Area Ridge Trail. History buff? Visit what’s left of the 200-year-old adobe home of Juana Briones at El Polin Springs or admire the tombstones memorializing beloved dogs and cats at the Pet Cemetery near Crissy Field. And if you seek something a little more futuristic, Yoda holds court every day from atop the fountain in front of the Lucas Film building. March through December, hit the Main Post on Thursday nights and Sunday afternoons for an epic food-truck picnic with music, lawn games and a bar.
April 2019: Spring is here with a bounty of warm weather, blooming flowers and people watching – which means it’s time to start exploring the best San Francisco parks. Enjoy the sun with thousands of your most raucous neighbors at Dolores Park, spread a blanket at the Presidio’s Main Post for the city’s best family-friendly food truck event, or dance like no one’s watching at Golden Gate Park’s free Sunday afternoon Lindy Hop party.
There are a million reasons to love SF, but for locals and tourists, alike, the sheer number of San Francisco parks and open spaces top the list. You’ll find not only some of the city’s best museums and attractions located inside these massive green spaces, but spectacular hiking trails, vistas and free events too. Whether you’re seeking a place to picnic or an active day outdoors, the best San Francisco parks are where you need to be.
RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in San Francisco