Narrowing down where to stay in San Francisco can be tricky. There are lots of choices, in all price ranges. When we visit the Bay Area, location and amenities are our top priorities.
Where To Stay: The Lodge at The Presidio
One of our favorite areas to explore is the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. For our most recent stay, we selected the Lodge at the Presidio (105 Montgomery Street). It’s the closest hotel to the Golden Gate Bridge and it’s gorgeous. It had everything we wanted: luxury amenities and an ideal location. All that and our room had a fantastic view of the iconic bridge.
The 42-room lodge is housed in historic barracks built in the late 1800’s to house members of the U.S. army. The rooms have historical charm, but with all of the modern luxuries.
For our mother-daughter getaway, we booked a “View King” room. These rooms have excellent views of the bridge and recreation area. The property is family-friendly, with some rooms accommodating up to 5 guests. The family pet is welcome here, too.
The hotel offers a complimentary breakfast, as well as an evening happy hour with wine, cheese, and treats.
What To Do Near the Lodge at the Presidio
Golden Gate National Recreation Area
Just off the front steps is a huge lawn where families can picnic and play. On weekends, food trucks are often parked here serving all kinds of food. In addition to being a great picnic spot, you’ll also be treated to sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the bay.
Parks & Playgrounds at Golden Gate National Recreation Area
One of San Francisco’s newest parks, the Presidio Tunnel Tops is steps away. Tunnel Tops has a unique natural play area where kids can crawl, climb and splash.
Family-Friendly Beaches at Golden Gate National Recreation Area
There are trails and forests all around this area, and beaches, too! Located at the tip of the San Francisco Peninsula, the Presidio is bordered by the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay. Several beach areas are accessible from here. Two of the most popular ones for families are Crissy Field East Beach and Baker Beach.
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Besides the expansive Golden Gate National Recreation area, there are several other things within walking distance of the hotel.
Take a Walking History Tour
History is on display all over this area. The Main Post History Loop is a great way to see it. It’s a one mile walking tour that includes visits to the Presidio Visitor Center, Funston Avenue, Chapel of Our Lady, the Presidio Officers’ Club, Pershing Square, and more. It takes one to two hours.
Go Deep on Disney
The Walt Disney Family Museum shares the family history of Walt Disney. The interactive museum takes visitors through the animator’s fascinating life. The museum houses a model of the original Disneyland. The museum has rotating exhibits as well as a theater.
The museum’s typically open Thursday-Sunday so plan your visit accordingly. We really enjoyed the Walt Disney Family Museum. We only had a few hours to explore, but could have spent longer here.
Knock Down Some Pins
The Presidio Bowl is an old school bowling alley that’s been around since the Army days here. It has just 12 lanes and it’s really popular so reservations are recommended. There’s also a bar and grill here. On weekends nights, there’s “glow in the park” bowling starting at 10pm.
Fill Your Belly
We recommend dining at Colibri San Francisco. We tried some unique Mexican dishes and had delicious craft cocktails here. Colibri’s open for lunch and dinner, and for brunch on the weekends. This is one of several dining choices within a short walk, or shuttle ride from the hotel.
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How To Get Around at the Lodge at the Presidio
We don’t enjoy driving and parking when in San Francisco. A stay at the Lodge at the Presidio means you can park your car for the weekend and get around by foot, bike, or via the Presidio Go Shuttle. Hotel amenities include a free shuttle around the park, and into downtown San Francisco. Bikes are available for guest use.
Need more information during your visit? The Presidio Visitor Center is located just across from the lodge. It’s open daily from 10-5. Presidio Visitor Center offers interactive exhibits, maps, and gifts. Park rangers can help you plan your adventure.
The author received a discounted stay for the purposes of this review. All opinions are her own.
