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Fort Baker: A Historic Gem Under the Golden Gate

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Discover history and breathtaking views at Fort Baker, a former army post nestled under the Golden Gate Bridge in Sausalito.

Nestled at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge in Sausalito, Fort Baker is a former U.S. Army post transformed into a stunning national park site. Offering iconic views, rich history, and outdoor activities, it's a must-visit destination.

A brief summary to Fort Baker

Local tips

  • Even when other areas are foggy, Fort Baker often enjoys sunshine.
  • Bring layers, as it can be windy and cool.
  • Explore the trails for stunning views and to spot the endangered Mission Blue butterfly.
  • Visit the Bay Area Discovery Museum for kid-friendly activities.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Sausalito, take the Golden Gate Transit Route 130 bus towards San Francisco/San Rafael. The bus departs from Bridgeway & Pine St and arrives at Alexander Ave & Bunker Rd hourly. From there, it's a 19-minute walk to Fort Baker. The bus fare is approximately $4 - $7. From San Francisco, take the Golden Gate Transit Route 130 bus from Van Ness Ave & Clay St to Hwy 101 & Alexander Ave. The bus runs hourly, and the journey takes about 17 minutes. From there, it's a 19-minute walk to Fort Baker. The bus fare is approximately $5 - $7.

  • Walking

    From Sausalito, it's approximately a 45-minute walk to Fort Baker. Enjoy the scenic views as you walk along the waterfront. From the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center, you can walk to Fort Baker via the Conzelman Road trail. Be prepared for a steep climb.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From Sausalito, a taxi or ride-share to Fort Baker takes about 6 minutes and costs approximately $12 - $16. From Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco, a taxi to Fort Baker will cost $30-$40 and take approximately 15 minutes.

  • Driving

    From Highway 101, take the Alexander Ave exit and turn right onto Bunker Road to reach Fort Baker. Parking at Fort Baker is free. There are approximately 175 parking spots available, shared with the Bay Area Discovery Museum.

Discover more about Fort Baker

Fort Baker, a 335-acre parkland in Sausalito, California, offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, and Alcatraz. Formerly a U.S. Army post, Fort Baker played a vital role in the defense of the San Francisco Bay for over a century. Established in 1866 as a military reservation, the area was initially known as the Lime Point Military Reservation. In 1897, it was renamed Fort Baker in honor of Edward Dickinson Baker, a former U.S. Senator from Oregon who died leading Union troops in the Civil War. The early 1900s saw the construction of permanent structures, including barracks, officer's homes, and coastal artillery batteries. Fort Baker was included in a historic district listing on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. Today, Fort Baker is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) and offers visitors a variety of activities. Explore the historic buildings, hike the trails, fish off the pier, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery. Key highlights include Battery Cavallo and Battery Yates, offering a glimpse into the fort's military past. The Bay Area Discovery Museum provides hands-on learning experiences for children. Cavallo Point Lodge offers dining and lodging options. With its blend of history, natural beauty, and stunning views, Fort Baker provides a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

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