What comes to mind when you hear the invitation to sleep in a National Recreation Area? Bug spray, tents, and sleeping bags? Not if you decide to spend the night at the Inn at the Presidio, which is within the confines of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.Inn at the Presidio — Photo courtesy of Sherwood Design Engineers

Not to be confused with the Presidio Inn on Lombard Street, the Inn at the Presidio was constructed in 1903 as a home for unmarried officers living within the Presidio military district. The rooms in this Georgian-Rival building balance contemporary comfort with a healthy respect for the Presidio's rich past. [PHOTO_188012]

Although it will be hard to tear yourself away from the Inn's beautifully restored front porches with gorgeous views of the Bay, take advantage of your amazing location. Reasonable walks can get you to The Golden Gate Bridge, shopping or dining on Chestnut Street, or right to the Bay at Crissy Fields. For those looking for a longer, more strenuous walk, Chinatown and North Beach are just a few heart-pounding hill climbs away.