THE GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE

(415) 921-5858

No matter what angle you look at it, the Golden Gate Bridge is an engineering wonder of deco design that has visitors from all over world standing in awe. Once considered unbuildable because of treacherous weather conditions with winds up to 60 mph and thick fog, not to mention the strong ocean currents below, it was completed after four years in 1937 at a cost of $35 million. It is believed 11 men lost their lives during construction.

The 1.2 mile structure, which is one of five bridges spanning the Bay, lays claim to the second longest single-suspension bridge in the world linking San Francisco with Marin County. It contains two cables with enough strands of steel wire - 80,000 miles - to go around the equator three times. The landmark bridge, which can often sway 27 feet, was built to withstand winds of up 100 mph. The concrete poured would pave a five-foot wide sidewalk from San Francisco to New York. Fittingly, the color of the bridge is called International Orange due its natural compliment to the surrounding scenery.  The bridge toll for vehicles is $3 which is collected when entering San Francisco, however, pedestrians and bicyclists are allowed across to enjoy sweeping vistas of San Francisco skyline, Alcatraz and the Marin Headlands. The walk takes about 50 minutes. Be sure to dress warmly! If driving, take time to stop at Vista Point on the Marin side to take in the views. Other vantage points include the Toll Plaza and Visitors Center before crossing the bridge., Fort Point (Civil War era) under the bridge and the Marin Headlands where you can take advantage of elevated panoramas.

Hours: daily
Pedestrians: 5am to 9pm