Travel Guide
Everything you need to know β hours, tickets, tips, and how to make the most of your visit.
Overview
The 1.7-mile Art Deco suspension bridge painted International Orange, opened in 1937 and linking San Francisco to Marin County. Walk or bike across its sidewalks for wind-whipped views of the bay, then see the classic postcard angles from Battery Spencer, Fort Point and Crissy Field.
Insider Knowledge
Fog often burns off by late morning, so check a bridge webcam before you head out for photos.
Nearby
san-franciscoThe former federal penitentiary on a rocky island in San Francisco Bay that held Al Capone and other notorious inmates from 1934 to 1963. Ferries leave from Pier 33, and the acclaimed cellhouse audio tour, narrated by former inmates and officers, brings the prison's history vividly to life.
san-franciscoThe 1.7-mile Art Deco suspension bridge painted International Orange, opened in 1937 and linking San Francisco to Marin County. Walk or bike across its sidewalks for wind-whipped views of the bay, then see the classic postcard angles from Battery Spencer, Fort Point and Crissy Field.
san-franciscoA protected grove of old-growth coast redwoods about 16 miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge, with trees over 250 feet tall and more than 1,000 years old. Flat boardwalk loops follow Redwood Creek, while longer trails climb toward Mount Tamalpais.
san-franciscoCalifornia's most famous wine region, about 1 to 1.5 hours north of San Francisco, with hundreds of wineries along Highway 29 and the Silverado Trail. Neighboring Sonoma is more laid-back and often cheaper. Expect Cabernet Sauvignon, vineyard views, farm-to-table lunches and towns like Yountville and St. Helena.
san-franciscoThe world's last manually operated cable car system and a moving National Historic Landmark. Three lines climb the city's hills: Powell-Hyde and Powell-Mason run from Union Square toward Fisherman's Wharf, while the California Street line crosses Nob Hill to the Financial District.
san-franciscoA hillside bayfront town just across the Golden Gate in Marin County, known for its houseboat community, galleries, seafood restaurants and views back to San Francisco. Many visitors bike over the bridge and return by ferry, one of the Bay Area's best half-day outings.
Wear layers and a windproof jacket, since it can feel much colder and very windy on the span.
Pedestrians and cyclists share the sidewalks, so stay to the right and follow signs about which side is open.
Battery Spencer on the Marin side gives the iconic view, but its small lot fills quickly.
Common Questions
About 30-40 minutes each way, plus time for photo stops.
Sidewalk hours change seasonally, so check the bridge district's website.
There are no cash toll booths; rental cars usually bill tolls plus a fee, so ask your rental company.
Lizza, our AI travel assistant, can build you a full San-francisco itinerary β free, in seconds.
Looking for more? Browse travel guides & tips β