If you’re looking for a day trip where nature, history, unique art, and seriously good food collide, the Presidio in San Francisco is calling your name. With over 1,400 acres of stunning scenery, 24 miles of hiking trails, and a lineup of unique experiences, it’s like a choose-your-own-adventure park for anyone looking for a fun SF itinerary.
Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or just here for the food (hey, no judgment), there are lots of great things to do in the Presidio—and this is exactly how I would spend one perfect day there.
1-Day Presidio Itinerary
1:00 PM
Lunch at Colibri Mexican Bistro
For a taste of Central Mexico right in the Presidio, Colibri Mexican Bistro delivers bold flavors and authentic dishes that feel like home. From smoky chile rellenos to fresh, citrusy ceviche, every bite is packed with tradition. And the carnitas? They’re served in the cutest ceramic pig, which hides enough tender pork to fill about five tacos—seriously, it’s like a delicious magic trick.
Pair it all with a fresh tortilla straight off the comal and a Colibri Margarita for the full experience. *Don’t forget to save room for a dessert, like the Flan al Cafe y Tequila—or just order another round of carnitas!
If you’re feeling something super casual for lunch, then check out the Presidio Pop-up food trucks that hang out near the Main Parade Lawn. They serve everything from Pakistani street food to bacon-centric dishes (yes, a whole truck dedicated to bacon!). Find a picnic table or plop down at the campfire circle for unbeatable Golden Gate Bridge and city skyline views.
Or If pizza is your love language, Il Parco is a spot that serves up focaccia-style slices that are perfect for sharing—or not. I was a fan of their funghi and the plain ol’ pepperoni!
2:30 PM
Explore the Presidio Tunnel Tops
The Presidio Tunnel Tops is a 14 acre beautifully landscaped area with amazing views of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco skyline, and the Palace of Fine Arts. There are plenty of spots to sit and soak it all in. Bring a blanket and a good book, or just people-watch—it’s prime picnic territory.
Built right above the Presidio Parkway tunnels, it’s like a gateway to all the fun the Presidio has to offer. From the Outpost playground to trails, public lawns, and cultural food vendors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
*Don’t leave the tunnel tops without taking a spin in the red Magis Spun Chairs (you’ll find them near Il Parco). They rotate you 360 degrees, like a top!
3:45 PM
Find Your Favorite Presidio View of the Golden Gate
The Presidio is home to some of the prettiest Golden Gate Bridge viewpoints. Whether you’re snapping photos or just soaking it in, here are some can’t-miss spots:
- Fort Point: Iconic views from beneath the bridge.
- Baker Beach: A sandy stretch with unbeatable vistas.
- Battery Godfrey: My personal favorite!
- Battery East: A classic spot for postcard-worthy shots.
- Crissy Marsh: Stroll along the waterfront and watch for birds.
Alternate Activities for Some More Adventure:
Feeling sporty? These two places are a great way to mix up the day with a little adrenaline (and maybe work off that lunch).
Check out House of Air, an indoor adrenaline park where you can bounce, flip, and dodge your way to a seriously fun time. They’ve got trampolines for open jump sessions, aerial training, dodgeball (yes, trampoline dodgeball!), and even slacklining. It’s basically a playground for grown-ups who refuse to grow up.
Not into trampolines? No problem! Head to Movement for some epic indoor rock climbing. Tucked in the heart of the Presidio near the Golden Gate Bridge, this spot has 25,000 square feet of climbing and bouldering terrain. Add in two yoga studios, a full fitness area, and views of Crissy Field, and you’ve got the ultimate place to climb, stretch, and sweat—while sneaking peeks at the bridge between all the action.
5:00 PM
Check-in + Wine & Cheese by the Fire Pit
Check into the Inn at the Presidio and kick off your stay with their evening wine and cheese by the fire pit. As the golden hour sets in, unwind with a glass of vino, a plate of cheese, and the cozy crackle of the fire. It’s was the perfect pause for us before heading out for dinner.
7:00 PM
Dinner at Dalida
Dalida brings the vibrant spirit of the Eastern Mediterranean to life in the heart of the Presidio. Inspired by Istanbul’s rich tapestry of cultures—Turkish, Greek, Armenian, Jewish, Arabic, and Persian.
Start your meal with “breaking bread,” a pillowy pita served with a spread of olives, pickles, and dips that set the tone for dishes like Istanbul-style stuffed mussels, tender lamb chops, and layered baklava that’s as dreamy as it sounds.
Run by co-chefs Laura and Sayat Ozyilmaz, Dalida combines soulful cooking with a commitment to the environment and local artistry. Whether you’re savoring Cypriot lamb chops (delish!) or sipping a house-made blackberry cordial, the atmosphere feels like a buzzing dinner party with friends—perfectly trendy yet welcoming.
It’s best to make reservations in advance, this place is busy! It was full by 6:00 on the Sunday night when we went.
9:00 PM
Play a Few Games at Presidio Bowl
Wrap up your evening with some lighthearted fun at Presidio Bowl, a 12-lane bowling center with kid-friendly bumpers, and a grill menu that pairs perfectly with their impressive lineup of beers, ciders, seltzers, and wines, it’s the perfect spot for anything from a solo strike session to a large party.
The real highlight? Your face gets snapped at the start and pops up in hilarious animations after every frame. Peter and I bowled it out, each snagging a win, but we’ll save the tiebreaker for next time.
10:30 PM
Nightcap at the Inn at the Presidio
After a fun-filled day, return to the Inn at the Presidio for a relaxing nightcap in your cozy room. Reflect on the day’s adventures with a glass of wine before settling in your comfy bed for a well-deserved rest.
8:00 AM
Breakfast at the Inn at the Presidio
Start your day right with a European-style continental breakfast at the Inn at the Presidio. Think fresh fruit, buttery pastries, and all the cozy vibes you need to ease into your adventure. Whether you’re dining in the quaint breakfast area or savoring your coffee by the fire pit, it’s the perfect way to fuel up for the day ahead.
9:00 AM
See the Andy Goldsworthy Art
Andy Goldsworthy, the British artist known for blending nature and art, has left his mark all over the Presidio. If you have a car, you can easily hit three of his installations. PS: Make sure to download the map before you go.
Wood Line
This 1,200-foot winding sculpture of eucalyptus branches, is in a grove horizontal to Lover’s Lane. Created in 2011, it is made from reclaimed eucalyptus branches that seamlessly blends art and nature. The piece, designed to fade back into the earth over time, reflects the Presidio’s evolving landscape and its rich history of forest restoration. It’s playful, Instagram-worthy, and a little meditative if you’re in the mood.
Spire
Just a quick hop from the Presidio Golf Club, Spire is a towering 90-foot sculpture made from 37 Monterey cypress trunks. It’s a powerful symbol of renewal, surrounded by baby cypress trees that will one day envelop it. Standing there, you can’t help but reflect on change—both in nature and in life.
Earth Wall
Located near the Presidio Officers’ Club, this one’s a bit of a thinker. Goldsworthy crafted a giant sphere of eucalyptus branches and buried it within a rammed earth wall, only to partially excavate it. It’s like archaeology meets art.
Earth Wall can be easily accessed either through Colibri Restaurant or the Presidio Officers Club.
10:30 AM
Presidio Heritage Gallery
After soaking up all that outdoor art, head to the Presidio Officers’ Club to explore the Presidio Heritage Gallery. This free exhibit takes you on a journey through 10,000 years of history, from the Ohlone people to the park’s present-day transformation. With hands-on displays and captivating stories, it’s a must-see stop that makes history come alive.
11:30 AM
Dive Into Disney Magic
If you’re even a little curious about the man behind Mickey Mouse and Disneyland, the Walt Disney Family Museum is a must-visit. This massive space chronicles Walt Disney’s life from 1901 to 1966, with interactive galleries, rare sketches, and an impressive model of Disneyland (see if you can find the teacup ride!). Plus, there’s an entire section dedicated to his love for miniatures (did you know he once dabbled in making dioramas?).
*Allow yourself at least an hour or two to geek out over the magic behind the man.
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