Nike Missile Site Open House & Storytelling | Marin Headlands

Spencer E. Holtaway

Get an upclose look at a restored Cold War anti-aircraft missile site and hear intriguing stories from Nike veterans, park rangers, and volunteers from 12:30-3:30 pm, every first Saturday of the month.

This valuable historical resource is the only restored Nike missile site in the entire country. It’s a great chance for you to see the tools of the Cold War up close.

Rain cancels, so if the weather is looking iffy, call the Missile Site at (415) 331-1453 to check if they’re open.

Why It’s Cool/Important: During the tense years from 1953 to 1979, the United States Army built and operated a total of 280 Nike missile firing batteries in the United States. These missile sites were emplaced as the last line of defense against Soviet bombers.

Directions: Go North on 101, cross the GG Bridge, take Alexander Avenue exit and turn right. Go approx. 100 yards, through a cut in the mountain, and take the first left. Continue through the tunnel. Stay west on Bunker Road for approx 2.5 miles. Turn left on Field Road. About 150 yards after, you will see the Marin Headlands Visitor Center on your right. Site SF-88L will be the first right past the Visitor Center parking lot. It’s about a 1/4 mile up the hill to the gate.

Don’t get lost and while you’re there go see the Point Bonita Lighthouse; it’s awesome.

Updated 6/1/19 – Event info last checked via website