Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Don't Miss
Vista Points
San Franciscans have passionate perspectives on every subject, but especially their signa-
ture landmark. Fog aficionados prefer the north-end lookout at Marin's Vista Point to
watch clouds tumble like Olympic gymnasts over bridge cables. Crissy Field is a key spot
to appreciate the span in its entirety, with windsurfers and kite-fliers adding action to your
snapshots. From clothing-optional Baker Beach, you can appreciate the bridge in all its
naked glory.
Bridge Crossings
To see both sides of the Golden Gate, hike or bike the span. From the parking area and
bus stop, a pedestrian pathway leads past the toll plaza to the east sidewalk (pedestrian ac-
cess 5am to 6:30pm daily). Near the toll plaza is a cross-section of suspension cable, with
the tensile strength to support thousands of cars and buses daily. If you'd rather not walk
back, Golden Gate Transit buses head back to SF from Marin. Bikes have 24-hour bridge
access via either the west or east sidewalks, but must yield to pedestrians on the east side-
walk. Electric bikes must be powered down during bridge crossings.
Fort Point
Completed in 1861 with 126 cannons,
Fort Point
( 415-556-1693;
www.nps.gov/fopo
;
Marine Dr;
admission free; 10am-5pm Fri-Sun; ; 28)
stood guard against certain invasion by Confed-
erate soldiers during the Civil War…or not. Despite its guns, this fort saw no action - at
least until Alfred Hitchcock shot scenes from
Vertigo
here, with stunning views of the
Golden Gate Bridge from below. Stop by for panoramic viewing decks and Civil War dis-
plays.
Top Tips
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Southbound toll is $6, northbound is free, billed electronically to vehicle's license plate; for details, see
