Field Station
Get hands on at this curiosity lab and use all your senses to discover the Presidio.
Park wonders await! The Field Station is located at Presidio Tunnel Tops next to the Outpost nature playground. It’s inspired by base camps where scientists do their research in remote parts of the world. It’s packed with nature specimens, historical artifacts, tools, and maps that connect visitors of ALL AGES with the Presidio’s nature and history. What’s more, if you’re looking for a free family activity near you, it offers a wide variety of adventures to explore the larger park.
Its content and experiences change weekly, monthly, and with the seasons, so there’s always a reason to come back.
The Field Station is free and open to all Wednesdays through Fridays, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Getting to the Field Station
603 Mason St, San Francisco, CA 94129
Parking
Hourly and daily paid parking is available at large lots near the Presidio Visitor Center. There is also a Crissy Field parking lot next to Sports Basement on Mason Street.
Why We Love the Field Station
The Field Station is a unique place to experience the Presidio through science and art. It’s like a park curiosity lab where you use your senses to investigate and explore an ever-changing variety of real things and experiences. And it’s for EVERYONE (not just for kids!). It’s one of the coolest things to do in San Francisco, especially if you’re looking for a fun indoor activity for the family.
Accessibility at Field Station
This facility is wheelchair accessible. There are all-gender wheelchair accessible restrooms nearby.
Insider Tip
The Field Station is a hub where you can pick up a fun self-guided adventure or borrow field gear for park adventures of your own, including binoculars, magnifying glasses, field guides, and a kid-friendly Presidio Explorer Backpack. There’s something for everyone!
Indoor Fun at Presidio Tunnel Tops
The Field Station is one of many activities that makes Presidio Tunnel Tops one of the best things to do in San Francisco. Experiences change weekly, monthly, and seasonally, so there’s always a reason to come back.
Adventure Guides & Park Guides
Adventure Guides and Park Guides are youth leaders based at the Field Station and Outpost playground. They help welcome, guide, and engage visitors of all ages with fun activities and experiences that connect you to the park.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Field Station is open to the public Wednesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It’s free and no tickets or reservations are needed.
Yes! We highly recommend you schedule your visit to the Field Station and Outpost playground so we can be prepared to support a great experience. For details, visit the Schools and Youth Group Visits to Presidio Tunnel Tops page.
No, the Field Station is not available to rent, though you can rent a nearby lawn or table at Picnic Place.
Experience the Presidio
The Presidio is San Francisco’s national park site, with endless trails, fun events, and unforgettable vistas of the Golden Gate Bridge.
