San Francisco National Cemetery San Francisco
A serene and historic military cemetery in the Presidio, offering stunning bay views and honoring fallen heroes.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
San Francisco National Cemetery San Francisco
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene and historic military cemetery in the Presidio, offering stunning bay views and honoring fallen heroes.
"Stunning! For someone who enjoys visiting various cemeteries throughout the world, this is a must."
🚗 Park Smart
Parking is limited. Consider ride-sharing or public transport to avoid stress and potential theft .
🚶♀️ Walk the Grounds
Wander the peaceful paths and enjoy the views. Some visitors enjoy walking barefoot on the grass .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sea of Flags
Throughout the cemetery
Thousands of American flags adorn each grave, a poignant and moving sight, especially around Memorial Day .
Golden Gate Views
Overlooking the bay
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco Bay from this serene hillside location .
Historic Burial Plots
Various sections
Explore the resting places of veterans, including notable Buffalo Soldiers and Spanish-American War heroes .
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visit & Parking
Best Time for Serenity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Park Smart
Parking is limited. Consider ride-sharing or public transport to avoid stress and potential theft.
🚶♀️ Walk the Grounds
Wander the peaceful paths and enjoy the views. Some visitors enjoy walking barefoot on the grass.
🫡 Be Respectful
This is an active cemetery. Maintain a quiet and solemn demeanor during your visit.
📸 Capture the Moment
The cemetery offers stunning photo opportunities, especially with the flags and bay views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Park Smart
Parking is limited. Consider ride-sharing or public transport to avoid stress and potential theft.
🚶♀️ Walk the Grounds
Wander the peaceful paths and enjoy the views. Some visitors enjoy walking barefoot on the grass.
🫡 Be Respectful
This is an active cemetery. Maintain a quiet and solemn demeanor during your visit.
📸 Capture the Moment
The cemetery offers stunning photo opportunities, especially with the flags and bay views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the San Francisco National Cemetery for its stunning beauty, immaculate upkeep, and profound sense of peace amidst the city's bustle. The breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the poignant sight of flags at each grave, especially around Memorial Day, are frequently highlighted as deeply moving experiences.
"On Memorial Day - The San Francisco National Cemetery was dressed by the Boy & Girl Scouts with the American Flag for all to see over the next few days! Please take time to enjoy the photos. A Special Thanks to those who decorated the area in Memory of lost & loved ones!"
BB's Life
"Stunning! For someone who enjoys visiting various cemeteries throughout the world, this is a must. Small yet breathtaking. Extremely well maintained. Peace found in the midst of a bustling city. Distant sounds of the city, barely heard.
This most special part, if you go the right time, you can watch the fog slowly bisstle a top the monuments.
Definitely recommend ✌🏼"
Web3Prep
"A humbling place to come and reflect, or just to get a sense of history and understanding of the impact of war, and its outcomes. The fallen here have a beautiful resting place, with a fabulous view of the Golden Gate Bridge. Thought provoking and beautifully managed."
Alison Barnes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The cemetery is located within the Presidio of San Francisco. You can reach it by car, though parking can be difficult.
Public transportation options like Muni buses are also available, and ride-sharing services are a convenient choice given San Francisco's reputation for car break-ins.Limited parking is available, but it fills up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. It's advisable to arrive early or consider alternative transportation to avoid parking issues.
Yes, several Muni bus lines serve the Presidio area, providing access to the cemetery. Check the Muni website for the most current routes and schedules.
The cemetery grounds are generally accessible, with paved paths. However, due to its hilly terrain, some areas may be more challenging to navigate.
From downtown San Francisco, take Lombard Street west towards the Presidio. Follow signs for the National Cemetery within the park. GPS navigation is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the San Francisco National Cemetery is free. It is a national monument and is open to the public for respectful visitation.
The cemetery is typically open daily from dawn to dusk. It's always a good idea to check the official National Park Service website for the Presidio for any updated hours or closures.
No tickets are required for general visitation. The cemetery is an open public space for reflection and remembrance.
Yes, the cemetery is open on holidays. However, expect larger crowds, especially on Memorial Day, as many people come to honor fallen service members.
Visitors are expected to be respectful of the grounds and the individuals interred there. Please refrain from loud noises, littering, or disturbing the gravesites.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
You can see rows of headstones, grand monuments, and enjoy panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the bay. It's a place for quiet reflection and historical appreciation.
While some visitors find cemeteries inherently atmospheric, there are no widespread reports or legends of the San Francisco National Cemetery being haunted. It's primarily known for its historical significance and serene beauty.
It is a United States National Cemetery, serving as the final resting place for military veterans. It holds historical importance, including the burial of Buffalo Soldiers and those who served in various conflicts.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but always be mindful and respectful of the solemn nature of the site. Avoid intrusive photography, especially during ceremonies.
Take your time to walk the grounds, read the inscriptions, and absorb the peaceful atmosphere. Consider visiting during a weekday for a more tranquil experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The rows of headstones with the Golden Gate Bridge in the background are iconic. The sea of flags during Memorial Day is also incredibly photogenic.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in national cemeteries and national parks without specific permits. Always check regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views and rows of graves. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or capturing the distant Golden Gate Bridge.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows. The fog can also create dramatic and unique photographic opportunities.
Yes, always be respectful. Avoid disturbing gravesites, walking on them, or taking photos that could be seen as disrespectful. Be mindful of other visitors seeking quiet reflection.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more comfortable, plan for stroller-friendly routes where possible, though some areas are sloped. Pack water and snacks, as amenities are limited. Discuss the concept of remembrance beforehand to set expectations. The sheer scale of the headstones and flags can be impactful, providing a visual lesson in the number of lives dedicated to service.
🤔 History Buffs & Reflection Seekers
Take time to read the inscriptions on the headstones and monuments. Consider researching specific individuals or regiments beforehand to deepen your understanding. The panoramic views also offer a moment for reflection on the landscape that these service members defended. It’s a place that encourages thoughtful engagement with the past and present.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Place of Honor and History
One of the most striking aspects of the cemetery is the presence of Buffalo Soldiers, African American cavalry and infantry regiments who served in the post-Civil War era. Over 450 Buffalo Soldiers are buried here, including Pvt. William Thompkins, recognized for his bravery during the Spanish-American War. The cemetery also honors veterans from World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, each grave marked with a headstone, and often adorned with flags, particularly around Memorial Day.
Visiting the San Francisco National Cemetery offers a profound opportunity for reflection. The meticulously maintained grounds, the quiet dignity of the rows of graves, and the sweeping natural beauty create a unique atmosphere. It’s a place where history feels palpable, and the weight of service and sacrifice is deeply felt. Many visitors describe it as a humbling and peaceful experience, a stark contrast to the bustling city just beyond its borders.
Navigating the Presidio and Beyond
When planning your visit, it's crucial to be aware of the broader context of visiting San Francisco. Social media discussions frequently highlight concerns about car break-ins and theft in popular tourist areas, including near scenic spots. Therefore, it's highly recommended to avoid leaving any valuables in your car, or better yet, to utilize public transportation, ride-sharing services, or parking further away and walking to the cemetery. This proactive approach ensures a more relaxed and secure visit.
Beyond the cemetery, the Presidio offers numerous attractions, such as the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center, Crissy Field, and various hiking trails. The Columbarium is another significant historical site in San Francisco, though it's a different type of memorial focused on cremated remains, whereas the National Cemetery is for traditional burials. For those interested in the history of cemeteries in the city, the San Francisco National Cemetery stands out as a primary example of a well-maintained and historically rich military burial ground.
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