Gyde
Open prototypeProto
Back to all San Francisco places

San Francisco, California / Parks and outdoors

Crissy Field

A stunning waterfront recreation area and former 1920s Army airfield, offering panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and scenic trails along the San Francisco Bay.

Open prototype Official site Get directions
Crissy Field
www.parksconservancy.org, og_image_www.parksconservancy.org

What is Crissy Field known for?

Crissy Field is a public recreation area and one of the most popular attractions in the Presidio of San Francisco. It is known for outdoor activities such as bicycling and jogging along the water's edge of San Francisco Bay.

What are the hours for Crissy Field?

Crissy Field is open 24/7.

Is there free parking available?

Yes, free parking is available at the Crissy Field Beach parking lot.

What is the history of Crissy Field?

Originally marshland inhabited by Native Americans, the site later became the military's first Air Coast Defense Station on the Pacific coast and a 1920s Army airfield. It was named in honor of Major Dana Crissy and is now part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

Are there food and drink options on site?

Yes, the Warming Hut at the west end of Crissy Field offers tea, hot chocolate, Equator Coffee, and packaged snacks from local and California producers.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Crissy Field is a sprawling public recreation area situated on the northern shore of the San Francisco Peninsula, located just east of the Golden Gate Bridge. Once a peaceful marshland inhabited by Native Americans, the site later transitioned through Spanish and Mexican control before becoming a United States Army airfield in the 1920s. It holds a significant place in military history as the first Air Coast Defense Station on the Pacific coast and was named in honor of Major Dana Crissy. In 1994, the National Park Service took control of the area, collaborating with the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy to restore the site. This effort culminated in 2001 with the opening of the Crissy Field Center, a hub designed to connect families, schools, and community groups to the natural environment. Today, the area is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and serves as one of the most popular attractions within the Presidio of San Francisco. Visitors today enjoy a flat landscape shared by joggers, bicyclists, and dogs cruising along the water's edge. The East Beach serves as a prime picnic spot near the Bay Trail, providing iconic views of San Francisco landmarks. For those needing a break, the Warming Hut Park Store at 983 Marine Drive offers Equator Coffee, hot chocolate, tea, and packaged snacks from California producers.

Visitor tips

  • Visit the Warming Hut at the west end for a hot drink or Equator Coffee to fuel your walk.
  • Utilize the free parking available at the Crissy Field Beach parking lot for easy access.
  • Take advantage of the accessible restrooms and changing areas located at Crissy Field East Beach.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes as the paths are flat and ideal for long strolls along the Bay.

Nearby context

Crissy Field is a centerpiece of the Presidio of San Francisco, a historic military post turned national park. It connects the urban edge of the city to the rugged beauty of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco Bay shoreline.

Sources

Evidence and links