Surrounded by treasured open space and panoramic Golden Gate Bridge views, the Lodge at the Presidio provides its guests a different sort of San Francisco experience. Removed from the downtown crowds, traffic, and Union Square frenzy, this luxurious yet approachable hotel option is located within the Presidio, a former U.S. Army Post encompassing 1,500 acres of some of the most beautiful real estate in the nation.
Home to miles of hiking and biking trails, breathtaking views, playgrounds, a golf course, museums, and gourmet restaurants, yet close enough to the city action that San Francisco visitors crave, the Presidio and its gradual transformation over the years from military grounds to world-class visitor destination are revelatory. And the recent transformation of the former Montgomery Street Barracks (built between 1895-97 by the U.S. Army to accommodate six artillery companies, a Calvary troop, and two infantry companies) into the elegantly relaxed Lodge is cause for celebration.
The closest San Francisco hotel option to the Golden Gate Bridge, the Lodge takes full advantage of its proximity to the orange icon. Several of its 42 rooms directly overlook the span, and a fire-pit heated courtyard sits in its shadow. Combining historic elements with contemporary luxury, the Lodge gratifies a variety of guest interests. History buffs appreciate the authentic architecture and the location’s significant past; art aficionados enjoy the vast collection of museum quality watercolors, mixed-media pieces, and photographs; luxury seekers enjoy the beautiful furnishings and linens; gourmands relish the complimentary wine, appetizers, and European style breakfast buffet served in the dining room with its roaring fire. And environmentalists value the Lodge’s LEED certification (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design.)
In the high-ceilinged rooms, large, double-hung windows allow guests to enjoy the area’s eucalyptus-scented bay breezes. Furnishings and fabrics include canvas ottomans and headboards and posh wool throw blankets to ward-off the chill of coastal fog. Well-stocked mini bars include wine, beer, and deluxe sized spirits. Outside, a veranda runs the length of the building and features shaker style rockers that overlook the Main Parade Ground’s grass expanse. A short walk away is the Presidio Community YMCA where Lodge guests are granted access to its pool, gym, and assortment of classes.
Beyond the Lodge, The Presidio Trust has transformed the other Presidio buildings in its efforts to preserve the area as a natural, cultural, scenic, and recreational resource. Building 563, for instance, formerly a 1903 enlisted men’s barracks, is now home to the Presidio Social Club, a popular and convivial retro-chic restaurant known for hearty comfort-food. Where double-tiered soldier bunks used to stand, a room-length marble bar is now the focal point. Additional destination-level eateries include Arguello, serving Mexican cuisine in an indoor/outdoor setting, and The Commissary, featuring Spanish-influenced dishes and located in the former mess hall of the 1895-built Montgomery Street Barracks - both under the direction of award-winning chef Traci des Jardins. Beer lovers will want to check-out the more than 100 selections at Sessions at The Presidio, where the large outdoor, heated patio overlooks Letterman Digital Arts Center’s park-like setting.
Disneyphiles won’t want to miss the Walt Disney Family Museum, where Disney’s life is illuminated through innovative and interactive galleries. The stately Presidio Officers’ Club houses interpretive exhibits about the Presidio’s role in shaping California and serving the nation. A 12-lane Presidio Bowling Center invites you to throw down a few strikes, the Presidio Golf Course is perfect for practicing your putting, and miles of trails beg for exploration on foot or bike. The newly opened William Penn Mott, Jr. Presidio Visitor Center provides a great starting point with maps, videos, historical context, and the best selection of San Francisco-themed gifts found anywhere in the city. The friendly staff is happy to help you plan your day.
Whether enjoying the activities within the Presidio, or exploring further reaches of San Francisco, there’s no better spot to at which to start and end your day than the effortlessly chic Lodge at the Presidio.
