A historic city park with panoramic views that make the perfect backdrop for all your park needs. Perched on a hill above Old Town, Presidio Park stretches across 4 acres and offers some of the most peaceful, scenic spots in the city. My go‑to area is around the Presidio building -- I love wandering through the Spanish‑style architecture and catching the many views of San Diego from the top. I suggest parking in the small lot right next to the building. Once you're done exploring that area, you can drive up to the top and park along the street if you want to continue your stroll through the grassy parts of the park. This park is perfect for photoshoots, picnics, hiking, casual hangs, and even special events (with proper city permitting). We love bringing our pup Enzo here for a relaxing walk. A quiet, scenic gem in the middle of the city. read more

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Tons of hiking trails, gorgeous views of the bay, and super chill vibe. Perfect spot for a picnic or a solo hike. Watch out for the hills, though - get some cardio. 4.5/5 stars, def coming back! read more

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I drive past the Junipero Serra Museum overlooking the I-8 freeway all the time when going between Old Town and Mission Valley. One day I decided to head into this 40-acre park up on Presidio Hill and walked through a suggested path as recommended by a popular hiking app. The trailhead was a small parking lot off Taylor St leading into Palm Canyon. Maybe six vehicles could fit into this area which was not very inviting. I started the circuit by going in a counterclockwise direction. Some zig-zagging slopes ultimately brought you to the base of the museum which is famous for its towering structure. The surrounding green area was decent but not well kept. That was the theme of my hike... lots of trash and weeds with frequent parts that lacked a clear path or sufficient signage. The western loop provided an overlook of Old Town Historic State Park at the bottom of the hill. Presidio Park was the location of the Royal Presidio of San Diego. This was the first European settlement on the US West Coast. It was settled in 1769 and was the base for Spain's colonization of California. The park is divided into four distinct areas... Inspiration Point, Palm Canyon, Padre Cross, and The Arbor. As a California Historical Landmark, there were several points of interest besides the museum. They included the Serra Cross, Witches Tower, and Fort Stockton. A spot near the peak was called Sunset Bench and for a good reason. On clear evenings, the westward facing view of the sunset was spectacular. There was a nice large area with picnic tables and open space which seemed to be popular with families. If the rest of Presidio Park was maintained as well as this portion, then I would have given a higher rating. By the time I finished the trek, I had walked approximately two miles in about 45 minutes. read more

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The general history of the Presidio Park has much a darker history than many people know to see the areas of the city park not marked with any signs when you see a place the location has no signs only on the San Diego property. The Presidio used to a be a Hells Angels and the toughest gangs that would terrorize the park and the people that went there to see the park rangers house closed and locked tells me one thing that the park and the history of the park doesn't show one thing about History. To know a place, you have to see the true story behind it its not one of flowers of sunshine. The park has had many years of biker gangs and particular groups that have used the park as a drug and gang activity to see the many places just looking from the recreation center the questions, I asked seemed to be to be side stepped from the many events that had happened in Presidio Park. To see the true story is to find the many historical events is that the past has caught up with what is happening the park has been only used the day with the safety and the Baseball Park that sit down below in the city after hours can be very dangerous. With the coming of the Mexican Armies there was the Mormon Battalion that marched from Council Bluffs Iowa making their way across the United States the true group that helped in the many areas of San Diego and the building of the many sawmills which built and the construction of the Old Town State Park. With the Mormon Battalion Soldier that stands above the overlook when they had reached the Pacific Ocean the Mormon Battalion never saw or to enter the war with Mexico. For the many that have searched and found the different sides you may see something that was prepared by the Mexican Government, yet the Spainards had come before many of the people that had arrived at the Calif Coast. From the many years that history has shown so much with other groups that try to claim and want things their own way to claim lands that were theirs, yet the past history has such a blackened past with the many battles that tore California apart. As a Yelp Elite Reviewer, I see much more of the past years of history of the past war that Mexico has had with the United States with the many people surging on the United States. There is much history of the Preside of what is the correct and true history for the issue of history can be one that can turn bad. read more

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A beautiful, historic park above Old Town just past Mission Hills. Close trails for walking that are not difficult. Plenty of blanket picnic spots to enjoy in the daylight. Authentic historic buildings. Excellent picture locations too! Great for the whole family!! Lots of free parking. read more

Presidio Park is such an underrated, beautiful spot in San Diego! Tucked away in Mission Hills just behind Old Town, Presidio Park is located up a windy road on a slope. The park is most notably home to the Junipero Serra Museum, which is the beautiful terrace and look out that can be seen from the freeway. Unfortunately, the park can get a lot of trash, especially if you go into the walking path area. But, there are great spots to picnic. I've seen many people hosting birthday parties or get togethers out on the lawn. We held our wedding reception at the Junipero Serra Museum and the views were gorgeous. The way the terrace is set up is incredible and if you come at night, you can even catch the Sea World fireworks. read more

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Came here to visit the Serra Museum, but found some other cool things as well! The park seems small at first, but then looking around I realized it is decent sized. There are several areas separated by roads, parking lots or ridges, and which each offer their own amenities. Tables and grass for picnicking, hillside grassy areas for relaxing and viewing Old Town San Diego or the city to the west, and a few minor hiking trails on its east end to get your cardio going. Saw lots of couples, families and small groups this visit, all enjoying the park. I visited the Mormon Battalion memorial, the Fort Stockton site, and a ridge just above the museum itself which offered great views of the river valley below. Definitely a place to come to relax by yourself or with friends, and enjoy some great views and natural beauty. read more

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Stumbled upon this gem when i wanted to get some outdoor time. Clean park, nice trails, green grass and a lot if private space ti sit and relax read more

I love coming here! It's always been for a picnic- there are so many great local businesses nearby. I like grabbing something to go/curbside so I don't have to deal with parking and then. I come to enjoy it here. There is a little grove oasis area that is perfect to let kids run around or to play frisbee in. My favorite spots in the park are the ones with beautiful city views. That also makes it a favorite spot to take out of town visitors. I have only been on weekdays and it's never been crowded. read more

I've been coming here for over 40 years, first as a visitor to San Diego and as a "local" for the last two decades. It's one of my favorite places in San Diego to take family and friends who visit for the first time. Located at the northern edge of Mission Hills, Presidio Hill provides excellent views of Mission Valley and west to Point Loma. Its grassy spaces are excellent for picnics, especially near Padre Cross. This was the original location of Mission San Diego de Alcalá, which was founded in 1769. Mission San Diego was moved in 1774 to its present location further north in Mission Valley. The mission-style building today on Presidio Hill is the Junipero Serra Museum, built in the 1920s. It's worth a visit to see historic artifacts and learn about the founding of San Diego, its Mission and the Presidio (Spanish military base). There are parking lots in the park, as well as parking on local streets around the park. read more

Presidio Park is definitely a nice walk with so much important California history attached to it. Located in the old town San Diego area, you're guaranteed a great view and the best weather that California has to offer. Your park entrance is free btw. The presidio is kid friendly, wear comfortable shoes. read more

Yes, this is a great park, especially as you drive up the hill and find a super well shaded patch of green between the Junipero Serra Museum and Old Fort Stockon. Picnic tables are located underneath mature pine trees with trash cans nearby. There plenty of green for children to run around on. Also, if BBQ using charcoal, disposal containers are available. Parking can be tricky. Closes to the park, most of it is available around the access road that follows the perimeter of the park. You can also, park at the nearby museum down the street, but you have to trek up a hill to reach the park. However, from the museum, there are some safer paths that lead to the park, rather then walking along the side the road. read more

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Followed this step by step guide from this website to explore this park for the 1at time: http://www.san-diego-travels.com/presidio-park.php You've probably seen the Junipero Serra Museum (historic mission) off the 8 fwy on top of the hill. We parked in the residential area near Mason and Jackson, hiked up the short set of steep wooden steps. Note: if you want to follow the guide, it fails to tell you to turn right when you get to the top of the steps to get to the Arbor (there's a dirt trail going right and left). But it's fine if you go left as you'll come to the fort and Junipero Serra Museum first. We explored a series of trails from there including Palm Canyon. There's pretty cool views of different parts of San Diego. I would definitely come back for some hiking and views. Note: Old Town San Diego is walking distance from Mason. read more

Great place to take visitors . My friend from NC came out for Christmas , she loved it .

Nice park on a hill. Slopes and benches. There are some arches. Good place for a picnic. Rebel: 4 read more

Presidio Park - The Presidio Park - Parks Near Me - San Diego, California

This is occasionally one of my favorite places to go. And other times it's so filled with homeless people and riffraff that it's unsafe to explore and you never really know what kind of day it will be. It's worth chancing it to go and see where San Diego started, but don't come alone (or bring a big dog) and report what you see (you will encounter at least one camp) to the Get it done app. The fact that history is sort of taken for granted and abused makes me sad, but if we don't go see it, how is San Diego going to know it needs cleaning up. There was even someone camping/sleeping on top of the "witches tower"- Side note- place (and the back trails specifically) is haunted, which I just learned. My dog usually wigs out more than usually, which I just thought was him being aware of the birds, but knowing that- he might sense other things. So-if that's your thing- it's just another haunted part of Old Town- read more

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A local favorite location to let visitors overlook Old Town San Diego with marvelous views of the surrounding landscape, including the San Diego River Valley and the Pacific Ocean. The park spans approximately 40 acres and is known for its lush greenery, serene atmosphere, and rich historical significance. Presidio Park was the site of the first European settlement in present-day California. It was established by Spanish missionaries and soldiers in 1769 and served as the first permanent European outpost on the West Coast. The original Presidio, or military fort, was built here, and remnants of the original adobe walls can still be seen today. read more

Statues, trails of educational observatories situated inside the Old Town State Park in Mission Valley. I was on a ticking time bomb when I came to Presidio so my excursion was pretty abbreviated. I did however make the wonderful acquaintance of Padri, found several hidden stairs leading to open greenery, picturesque sceneries and additional landmarks inside the park. I noticed plenty of areas for sitting, fountains, restrooms and parking for your convenience. Allot yourself at least a couple hours to take in the Presidio/Old Town State Park views. ~Christy read more

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I love this park! It's not a hidden gem but I feel like it is because nobody really comes here... Or at least when I come there's like 3 other couples. We don't use their picnic area- which is where it's usually full. We use more of the slanted hill overlooking the freeways and view. It's very green, peaceful and quiet. It's beautiful and relaxing. You can take a nap without anybody disturbing you (like hobos). You can set up at a hidden spot near the trees. One thing is- I didn't see a bathroom. It's probably in the picnic area. I also noticed there's not that much parking. You have to either park downhill at the parking across from the museum, get lucky and find parking on the streets near the picnic area or park in residents streets. I'm sure they hate that. We parked down and walked up. I think we'll come here more to have picnics. It's better than Balboa park... More privacy. read more

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This is a nice park that most San Diegans don't know much about. It's pretty noisy being near the I-8 and I-5 intersections, but there are quiet places to hang out, and a ton of history associated with this hillside. I enjoy walking amongst the trees, and enjoying a "nature break" so close to our urban core. If you've not been here, you really should check out Presidio Park. It's a nice place to picnic with friends and family, and you can walk to Old Town State Historic Park located a short distance to the west. read more

Presidio Park - Up at the top - Parks Near Me - San Diego, California

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I'd forgotten how beautiful it is up here. We haven't driven up that hill in years, and I don't think I've ever really driven all the way around (I didn't even realize that there's a road that leads out the back way, once you hit the summit!) We're always looking for new places to take the mongrels, and since every single beach in San Diego is off-limits for canines, we're quickly running out of new places. This Saturday, we were hoping for something other than our old stand-by locations (Liberty Station and Balboa Park), when my husband suddenly suggested Presidio Park. Again, it's been years since we've been here, so his suggestion took me by surprise. We always see the buildings from the freeway, but it never crosses my mind as a place to go. I'm glad he suggested it, and I'm glad we went. It's lovely there. The day we were there, the top of the hill was busy. There had to have been at least four different large parties going on, so the street parking in that little loop was non-existent. We drove around, then came back out at the front and parked at the little lot near the bottom of the hill (close to the buildings and the museum - another thing I didn't realize was there!) We were able to take the beagles out to the open green area right next to the parking lot, and they loved it. They loved the grass and the trees and the fallen foliage and the birds and the...well, they're lovers of everything, after all. We took them on a nice long walk, letting them run and tire themselves out far away from people and the street. They had a grand time sniffing and rolling and barking and running, and we had a grand time laughing at their silly antics. It was quiet in that area - not many people were around - and it was very peaceful. There's a great view from the top of that little rise, and some nice trails leading out. I would have liked to have spread out a blanket to hang out for a bit, but the hubs was getting restless and the mongrels were running out of steam, so we headed back to the car. One day I want to go back without the dogs, just so that we can take a peek at the museum. I'm even eager to go back to take the road out of the Park, the one that I didn't know existed till this trip. It's a nice place to go and relax, to walk, and to look out over the freeway. Our engagement photos were taken here (so yeah - many years ago!), and we did an impromptu "photo shoot" with my parents here once also many years ago. So, it's definitely picturesque and worth visiting. Apparently it's also a good place for parties! read more

Presidio Park - View from the park - Parks Near Me - San Diego, California

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Maybe I happen upon the wrong side of the park, however, I was utterly disgusted and had to leave. I hadn't even walked around 5 min to discover trash and homeless people all around. The area looks run down. There was a kids baseball game going on though. So, if you're into family and sport kind of outings. This place is just... I don't even want to come back to this park. I mean, homeless people leaving trash all over the place, the smell of urine and who knows what, the graffiti. I don't know how San Diego has let homelessness run rampant in the city. This is supposed to be a tourist attraction. I don't know how to eliminate the homelessness problem, but there's got to be somewhere these people can go to, instead of desecrating these park grounds and ruining it for everyone else. Is this a controversial topic? read more

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This park is not far from my home and I didn't know about this beautiful place! Here you can find different spots for photo shoot: a big lawn, several pines (good for Christmas), a bush with red berries, yellow tree, trees with flowers - all of these things I saw in December. Old Mission with downstairs is good for photography as well. One disadvantage is a homeless people. Also it is a good spot for parking near the Mission and walk to Old Town on trail. read more

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We have all heard the phrase "I'm stiin' on top of the world" and when you come to visit the Presidio Park in San Diego you will be "Sittin' on top of San Diego." Man oh man, this place is such a great place to come and digest the numerous vistas in many different directions. It's like a small slice of heaven right above the hustle of the I-8 and I-5 freeways. My wife and I really enjoy walking and hiking the park grounds on a regular basis. We find it to be so peaceful towards the southeast end of the park where the beautiful homes line the back street. On your way out, take the south exit and follow the marked "scenic" drive signs. It's a great way to continue the adventure know to me as looking over Old San Diego. Enjoy... read more

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Presidio Park is an interesting area. It's not quite a big park but it has trails behind the park for bird watching (based on seeing some people with binoculars rising from the trails) and just plain hiking. I have been to the Museum area which has its own parking but this was the first time I have ever joined some people for a gathering. The park itself is open crowded with families with picnics, or parties for the little ones. Every body seemed to be prepared to be there for the day. The occassion was the Dubs baby welcome shower that Karyn threw for Warren and his family. Poor Karyn had to be at the spot by 9 am to save a prime park bench area (close to the washrooms) as people started to trickle in. There are some problems with having a party at the Presidio Park, first parking is not plentiful by the park area itself, once one side of the road fills up, you need to try to park a bit away from the park. Second, if you decide to have a party downhill from the park, you need to bring big arrows pointing where you are. Poor Ruggy and several others had to go around the block trying to locate the party. There is a trail I have mentioned and I have never taken it before so maybe next time I will. However, caution, do not bring your dog if its a mop white haired creature because you will need to brush, clean and pretty much send your dog back to the groomers. I credit this place as being spacious enough for a small gathering and of course, if you have the equipment like J.C. one of our party goers, you have your own canopy, chair, music. It is also ideal for a small gathering with benches spread around the park for small groups and even a small wedding can be held in the park if you are early enough to save a spot. Note: When I first ran into to the Presidio when I was new here, I thought it was the same Presidio in the movie (which is based in California but SF not SD). 5 years later, I happy to say its the kind of Presidio (park) that I would like to enjoy a small gathering at. read more

I love this park so much !!!! But it has high way noise. I usually go there for picnic and photo shooting. I am so glad people kept this park for us. read more

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Another great park in San Diego. It's nice because not many people go here and it overlooks the interstate 5 and 8 interchange. Yes it seems loud, but it's actually quite nice. There are plenty of huge trees, mostly fig and eucalyptus, that provide blankets of shade for a hot sunny day. There's also a really nice breeze that constantly rustles the overhead leaves and provides quite the relaxing tone for one to rest their eyes and take a nice afternoon nap. *One of my favorite parks in San Diego! read more

What a gorgeous and romantic place!!...apparently thought the couple making out on the hills while I was there touring Presidio Park. Plenty of great photos to be taken, as I did. Plus there is a nice park to have a picnic (or perhaps another make-out session?). Plenty of parking in a small lot opposite the building, or there is also street parking a bit further around the open park area. Minus a star as it seems to be the current residence of at least one homeless person...as evidenced by a permeating urine smell. read more

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The last time I went to Presidio Park was years ago when I was in fourth grade for the week long elementary school field trip so I was more than excited when my husband wanted to take me here for a Sunday stroll. There is so much history at Presidio Park. It's really so interesting to think that this area marks where the first European settlements in the Western United States were founded but you can find out all this information if you visit the Junipero Serra Museum! The park isn't very big however, the views of Old Town, the San Diego River, and and the ocean are beautiful! We came here and watched the sunset from the Mormon Battalion monument and it was spectacular. You live in San Diego for years and you take these spots in San Diego for granted! There are a few trails around the park to stroll through and view the spanish style architecture of the museum as well as enjoy the nature of the area. I saw several groups taking family pictures and holiday photos along the trails. The park is such a nice area to just lounge around or throw a small gathering! Although it does not really cater to the handicapped there are a lot of hills and parking might be a bit difficult by the park. This place seems to be a very popular wedding and other special events venue. Presidio Park is really a hidden gem. i hope to spend more time here and definitely recommend others to spend a little time here too. read more

Presidio Park - Sunset from Presidio Park - Parks Near Me - San Diego, California

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I love the outdoors..and I am very happy that San Diego has plenty of outdoor activities!. This park is by far my favorite, kinda hesitant to review..because I want it all to myself. Lol. I do adore this place, the trees makes me feel like I'm in Northern Cali. There's plenty of magical spots and hidden areas of this park. It doesn't get too crowded even on the weekends, which is a plus. There's so much to do here, if u enjoy photography, this place can be the perfect location...I always see monarch butterflies and several bird species... this place is beyond words.... Common...stop reading this and get out there! read more

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This is a great place to do you Photoshoot if are a photographer and need a spot to do pictures this is a great spot not a lot of people around. The scenery is amazing lots of trees and lots of architecture to choose from. You can also take wedding photography pictures over here. I love this post Nd do attest 10 photos shoot a week at this spot. read more

I have come here for years, and it's still one of my favorite places for an afternoon picnic. Right at the corner of the 8 and 5 freeways, this park is a hidden gem. There is also a light hiking trail that takes you to other parts of the park. Great for a picnic in the grass and throwing the football around for a few hours. Just be advised that there isn't too much parking around; be prepared to walk! read more

Presidio Park is a gorgeous place to take pictures! There's so many options and nice green fields that make for great backdrops. Highly recommend getting family or even couples pictures done here! These were taken by me and you can see more at lexihopephoto.com read more

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What a sweet park! I came here for a BBQ fundraiser event for the San Diego Bulldog Rescue and I had an awesome experience. First of all, I LOVE that this park is pet friendly. I seem to come across so many that aren't and it really bums me out! First off, the drive up the hill is GORGEOUS. I really felt like I was nestled away in some small, picturesque town as I turned the corner and saw the amazingly beautiful homes lining the streets of the park. It's like you don't even know it exists until you go - and you should! The section we spent the afternoon in had a huge, open, grassy field; perfect for the egg toss and the hilarious bulldog agility test course. There were lots of other groups around yet there was still plenty of room for all of the pop-up tents, lawn chairs and activities that were set-up. Plus, there are tons of spots for great shade, which was ideal for all of our flat-faced, no-heat-tolerance bulldogs! I will most definitely be coming back here to hang with my pup. I am also excited to explore the many trails I saw as well! read more

7.25.10: This Park is huge and there are many trails to walk around. I really like it, there is plenty of spots to just chill and relax. My friend and I was walking around and as we were admire a squirrel we were then realized that we were surrounded by two rabbits and about 8 squirrels. I was so excited I had a chance to take a picture from my iphone. I have never seen them so close. Usually the squirrels should be scared off by now, but not these, they were just friendly about two feet away from me. There are not a lot of parking however if you keep driving up the hill there are resident parking which sucks for the people who lives there, but other then that, this is a great place to run around or just relax. Wow, so serene. read more

Came here with my fiance and our 2 dogs and really enjoyed our time here. We just came up here on a whim because we are always on the look out for dog friendly places, especially when we go on mini vacations. This picturesque place would be great for engagement or wedding photos (since I am still engaged, I am always looking at locations with that in mind). If you are here, you should take a few minutes to look through the Serra Museum. (clean men and women restrooms outside) There are some historical sites here, so nice to soak up some local history. There are also some picnic tables throughout and some very easy (shady) hiking trails. Honestly, a very family friendly (and dog friendly) place (although I did see 2 bums sleeping on benches though while we were there...but I still felt safe). There are plenty of open spaces to have a little get together, BBQ gathering, church picnic, etc. and the place is nice and well kept. Plenty of parking in multiple places around this big park. Highly recommend and would come back here again the next time we are in San Diego. read more

Presidio Park - Parks Near Me - San Diego, California

Quick review here as its been all said below. Great views, plenty of places to have your kids run around and explore. Old Town Tortilla ladys on the way home can't be beat either! read more

We kept seeing this park from the highway and for a long time I kept saying we have to check it out. I had never heard of it before, so it was quite a surprise when we finally went. Everything about it was a surprise. Sad as it sounds, I get excited whenever I see more than five pine trees grouped together. There just isn't much of that in SD, unless you go to Mt. Laguna, et al. The musuem hours are a little confusing, because one site says they no longer open at all. The other gives their hours. I'm not sure if you have to pay to take pictures there, but there were photographers there for hours and when we DARED to check out the building, one of them was pretty rude about lettings us know they were taking pictures. Even if I was paying money, I'd have been more polite about it than that. read more

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Nice well maintained grassy park near the Presidio in Old Town. What makes this park unique is that it is on a hill, and due to the historic nature of this area, there is a bit of an old feel to the place. Kids can roll down the hill and have fun. The actual mission style building at the top of the hill is a museum that is open by appointment only. read more

This is San Diego's historical splendor at it's best! All u need to know about SDago and how it came to be wrapped up here with it's amazing scenery to gowith it. Did I also mention that this particular park is militarily historic as well?!! Yes its attached to both Navy and the marines so u come here n u just keep on getting amazed and constantly entertained. They have delicious eating nearby with awesome local breweries close to it as well. So grab them and go enjoy a beautiful day in America's Finest City at a beautiful site within that city...San Diego CA. @ Presidio Park!! read more