San Francisco’s Inn at the Presidio Debuts an Elegant Refresh

Even before its stunning new refresh, the Inn at the Presidio qualified as one of San Francisco’s best hospitality secrets. Tucked within the bucolic and pastoral national park site, with views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, the Inn has served as my R&R “go-to” for nearly a dozen years. It offers a serene escape surrounded by 1,500 acres of enchanting forests, miles of hiking and biking trails, stunning beaches, restaurants, and an 18-hole public golf course. Whenever I crave a San Francisco “fix,” the Inn at the Presidio and its environs serve as my north star, refueling and restoring my sense of well-being, and reminding me that I live in one of the most beautiful places on earth. 

Inn at the Presidio Living Room

And now, with its proudly revealed and lovely revitalization, the Inn has further enriched my experience. The refresh underscores the enduring style and historic charm that defines the Inn. It embraces a comfortable residential quality, harkening to the history of the Inn as an army officers’ residence. (The building was originally constructed as bachelor officer’s quarters by the U.S. Army in 1903.) The new design flawlessly integrates traditional and current design elements, exemplified by the detailed selection of comfy furnishings and of new art, curated to showcase local iconic landscapes and park wildlife. The warm color palette, stripes, military brass, and natural accents pay heartfelt homage to the Inn’s turn-of-the-century origins and its iconic national park surroundings.

“The refresh of Inn at the Presidio revitalizes a cherished historic landmark, preserving its enduring elegance,” says Terry Haney, Director of Presidio Lodging. “This project paves the way for the Inn to remain a top destination, seamlessly blending tradition and comfort for our guests.”

Inn at the Presidio Foyer

And comfortable it is. The living room features a lounge area centered around the fireplace with stylish leather seating and a Monarch butterfly-inspired area rug, so striking as to encourage comments when I posted a photo to Instagram. The upgraded dining room has a new breakfast buffet room inspired by a butler’s pantry, where a complimentary and bountiful European breakfast is served. (Lucky you if buttery, mini Kouign Amman are served, as on my visit.) An expansive front porch, lined with rocking chairs is an ideal spot to watch the world go by while playing Wordle, and the outdoor patio with its cozy fire pit is where guests gather in the evening for complimentary wine and cheese before heading to one of the Presidio’s several wonderful restaurants. 

Inn at the Presidio Breakfast Room

Inn at the Presidio Breakfast Room Lounge

The Inn’s 22 well-appointed guestrooms, including 17 suites with cozy fireplaces, feature décor reminiscent of a Ralph Lauren ad, custom-made mattresses, robes and slippers, EO bath amenities and minibars stocked with sweet and savory snacks and deluxe sized spirits and a variety of wines.

Those desiring a more intimate experience can book the Inn’s annex: the Funston House. The Funston house features four guestrooms, a living room, and a dining room, available for rent individually or in its entirety.  

Inn at the Presidio Suite Living Room

Inn at the Presidio Guest Room

The Inn at the Presidio, 42 Moraga Avenue, San Francisco

Photos by Paul Dyer, courtesy of The Inn at the Presidio