For 200 years, this classic U.S. Army base facing the Pacific was headquarters for training and administration through America’s times of war and peace. From the first cavalry actions in the 1790s to the final deployment in 1990 for the Gulf War, the Presidio was one of America’s oldest fortresses.

The recent opening of the El Presidio de San Francisco Museum in the former officers’ Club welcomes visitors to view hundreds of historic military and archeological artifacts that date back two centuries and more. They include cannons, sabers, firearms, ammunition, uniforms and much more. www.presidio.gov

For those who plan to stay overnight, there’s a boutique hotel called the Inn at the Presidio, located at the former Pershing Hall Bachelor Officers Quarters. Room rates are from $250. The address: 42 Moraga Avenue, San Francisco, California 94129, www.inatthepresidio.com