San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge

Historic Hotel History and Gift Center National Park

One of the most breathtaking structures in the world and a marvel of modern engineering and physics, the Golden Gate Bridge offers magical views of the San Francisco Bay Area, connecting San Francisco and the Marin Headlands. The iconic orange towers of the 4,200-foot Golden Gate Bridge, the most cherished symbol of San Francisco, are visible from every high point in the city.

Throughout its timeline, the Golden Gate Bridge has served as a vital transportation link for U.S. Highway 101 San Francisco and Marin County to the north. Driving or biking across is a thrill, but the half-hour walk allows you to absorb amazing views of Downtown and the San Francisco Bay. Pedestrians are allowed on the EAST sidewalk, during daylight hours from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.  [Top]

Golden Gate Bridge History and Gift Center. The 4,200 foot long span of the Golden Gate Bridge was the longest span in the world from the time of its construction in 1937 until New York City's Verrazano Narrows Bridge opened in 1964. To learn about the history of the Golden Gate Bridge, visit the Gift Center located in the historic "Roundhouse" building on the southeast side of the Golden Gate Bridge Toll Plaza. Designed in 1938, the Roundhouse was originally a restaurant for passing motorists.  Today, the Gift Center offers a variety of information and souvenirs of the Golden Gate Bridge.  [Top]

Golden Gate National Park. Golden Gate Park is the largest and most beautiful of San Francisco’s parks - the ultimate haven away from urban chaos. Spreading more than three miles west from the Haight as far as the Pacific Ocean, Golden Gate Park attracts throngs of joggers, polo players, roller-skaters, cyclists, disc golfers and strollers to its beautifully-preserved parklands. The park also offers many peaceful spots with excellent ocean vistas.

The park is a testament to the will of the city to preserve a place to play, relax and grow culturally. Visit the de Young museum, the Conservatory of Flowers, the improved music concourse and the repaired Murphy Windmill.  [Top]