San Francisco Gems: Crissy Field
Crissy Field
37.8040° N, 122.4650° W
One of our favorite family pastimes, is bike riding in and around San Francisco’s Crissy Field and Marina District. The trails are nicely marked and there’s very little car traffic to navigate through. But, the view is really the draw —— this area has an amazing stretch of iconic San Francisco views and on a clear day, you’ll be able to see across the bay into neighboring Marin, Richmond, Berkeley and Oakland. We haven’t invested in a bike rack for our bikes (and to be honest, there is always a bike or two in our garage with a flat tire) so we usually check in with our friends at the Sports Basement —- they offer a large assortment of bikes for rent and are conveniently located in Crissy Field. Once the quarantine is over you can reserve your bikes online or just walk in and choose your bikes for the day. You’ll find their bikes clean and well maintained — equipped with a helmet, lock and pouch in the front for maps, keys, cell phones or other small items. And as a bonus, parking in their lot is free while you ride! Side Note: If you’re looking for Bay Area inspired gifts/ souvenirs, Sports Basement has a great selection of San Francisco knick knacks!
Crissy Field is a perfect starting point if you’re interested in exploring this part of San Francisco. This area is rich in must see sights — The Golden Gate Bridge, Fort Point, The Marina Green Park, Fort Mason, Palace of Fine Arts, the grounds of Lucas Films and of course The Presidio. Some choose to make a day of it and journey 1.7 miles over the Golden Gate Bridge into Sausalito. Also, a fun option…. the weather can be a little sunnier and you won’t encounter too many hills if you stay along the shoreline. You’ll find lots of boutiques and galleries for shopping and plenty of options for lunch. If you choose to go into Sausalito, you can ride back or take the Ferry back to The City. Just be sure to check the schedule so, you don’t miss the last boat back!
On this day, we chose to stay in San Francisco and explore the stretch from Fort Point to Fort Mason — a short but scenic strip. Now, I’m embarassed to admit, I’ve lived in the Bay Area all of my life yet, I’ve never visited Fort Point! Do you have places like that where you live? I’ve been making a list of local spots I have never seen and making a point to go and visit them.
Fort Point, part of the National Parks Service, was built between 1853 and 1861 —- and, is often referred to as “the pride of the Pacific”. The most interesting part I discovered was the role that Buffalo Soldiers played at this site. The African Americans of the 9th Calvary were stationed at the Presidio in the early 1900's, in the years after the Spanish American war. These same soldiers were later sent to both Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks, acting as rangers —- patrolling the parks and protecting early visitors.
With its spectacular vantage point overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge you’ll find dramatic views and greater Bay. As I looked through the brick archways and rustic wire torn peepholes, I imagined the days when this fort served as protection from Confederate attack of San Francisco Harbor during the Civil War. Take time to visit each level as each floor invites a unique view of this beautiful city!
Take time to linger and take in views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the distant views. If it’s not too foggy, perhaps you will spy Alcatraz or The Palace of Fine Arts with its recognizable dome roof. Or perhaps, your gaze is focused on the Golden Gate Bridge and the waves that rhythmically crash underneath.
After we spent time at Fort Point, we headed towards the Marina Green. Here you’ll find boats in the harbor and homes with million dollar views. We’ve enjoyed coming here since the kids were much younger — its a great area for kite flying, walking dogs or putting out a picnic blanket and people watching.
We continued on a little further to Fort Mason Center for Arts + Culture. Fort Mason is located along the northern waterfront between Aquatic Park and the Marina Green. Check their calendar for a list of upcoming events - exhibitions and performances. This is also a great spot to stop off for lunch — there’s a Farmer’s Market here on Sundays (9:30am - 1:30pm) and usually a nice selection of food trucks. I alway enjoy getting a champiñones empanada from El Porteño — flaky hand-pies stuffed with seasonal mushrooms, shallots and a mix of creamy parmesan and creme fraiche…. they’re delicious! Or try the Indian Street Fare being offered by the Curry Up Now food truck!
If you’d like to explore more of this corner of San Francisco, consider adding these sights to your list — which can be reached on bike within 20 minutes:
Golden Gate Bridge - stop in at the visitor center and make the pilgrimage across the span!
The Wave Organ (located in the small boat harbor at the marina) - 25 PVC pipes have been constructed here to create “music” as the waves roll in and out….. A fun sight for kids - best to visit at High Tide.
The Presidio - the grounds of The Presidio are beautiful and a great spot to familiarize yourself with the history of San Francisco.
The Walt Disney Family Museum - Conveniently located in The Presidio of San Francisco, you’ll learn all about the history of the Disney empire.
Lucas Films Headquarters - Also located in The Presidio…. technically a working office so, you can’t go in but, you can stop by the fun Yoda fountain at the entrance!
The Palace of Fine Arts - a beautiful piece of San Francisco architecture. Perfect family photo-op location!
Pier 39 and its Sea Lions
There’s so much to see and do in this corner of San Francisco! One last note: It’s best to keep jackets in the trunk of your car….. San Francisco’s “Karl The Fog” never fails to make a visit (no matter the season). Enjoy!
Happy Travels!
