Nike Missile Site SF-88, Mill Valley

Nestled in the rolling hills of Marin County, California, lies a relic of the Cold War era, the Nike Missile Site SF-88. This historic site offers a unique window into the United States' military past, serving as a history museum that attracts tourists with an interest in military history and the Cold War.

The Nike Missile Site SF-88 is one of the few preserved installations of the once extensive Nike air defense system that was spread across the United States to protect the country from potential Soviet aerial attacks. Established in the 1950s, this site was part of a network designed to launch Nike missiles, which were some of the earliest types of guided surface-to-air missiles.

Today, visitors to SF-88 can step back in time to experience what life and operations at a missile defense site might have been like during the tense years of the Cold War. The site has been meticulously maintained, with the original radar vans, underground magazines, and missile assembly buildings all available for public viewing. Knowledgeable park rangers and docents, often veterans with first-hand experience of the Nike system, provide insightful tours that bring the history of the site to life.

One of the highlights for visitors is the demonstration of the missile elevator, which transports a restored Nike missile from the underground magazine to the surface for launch. Although the missiles are now deactivated, the demonstration offers a rare glimpse into the technology and procedures that were once a routine part of America's defense strategy.

The Nike Missile Site SF-88 is not only a museum but also a poignant reminder of the tensions that defined the mid-20th century. It serves as a testament to the technological advancements of the era and the efforts made to preserve peace during uncertain times.