How much does it cost to visit Coit Tower?

Admission to the ground floor and the murals is free of charge. However, elevator ride tickets to the observation deck are required and can be purchased on site; adult non-residents are charged $11, while adult SF residents are charged $8.

What are the hours for Coit Tower?

Coit Tower is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. from April to October, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from November to March. It is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.

Are there guided tours available?

Yes, guided docent-led tours are available. These 30-40 minute tours cover the tower's history, the Public Works of Art Project, and the 26 artists who created the murals.

Is there food and drink available nearby?

Yes, the Coit Tower Cafe is located just a few steps away and is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. The menu includes hot and cold drinks, pastries, paninis, pizza by the slice, and frozen yogurt.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

Coit Tower in San Francisco

What is Coit Tower known for?

Coit Tower is a 210-foot slender white concrete column located on Telegraph Hill that serves as an emblem of San Francisco's skyline. It is well-known for its observation deck offering 360-degree views of the city and bay, as well as murals created by 26 California artists depicting 1930s California life from a socialist perspective.

What to know

Coit Tower is a 210-foot slender white concrete column that has served as an emblem of the San Francisco skyline since its completion in 1933. The tower was built between 1932 and 1933 using a $125,000 bequest from Lillie Hitchcock Coit, who intended the funds to beautify the city she loved. Architect Henry Howard designed the tapering column, which is located in the city's Pioneer Park. Beyond its height, the tower is renowned for its interior murals. These artworks were created by 26 California artists and depict California life in the 1930s from a socialist perspective. These murals are part of the Public Works of Art Project and are accessible to the public on the ground floor. Visitors can ascend to an observation deck located 32 feet below the top of the tower via an elevator. From this height, guests can enjoy spectacular 360-degree views of the city and the bay, including clear sightlines to the Golden Gate and Bay bridges. The tower's significance is further cemented by its status as San Francisco Landmark 165 and its addition to the National Register of Historic Places in 2008. For those seeking a refreshment, the nearby Coit Tower Cafe serves a menu of paninis, pizza by the slice, and frozen yogurt, providing a a convenient stop for visitors exploring the summit of Telegraph Hill.

Visitor tips

Ground-floor access to the murals is free, while elevator rides to the observation deck require a paid ticket.
Purchase elevator tickets at the gift shop up to one hour before closing time.
Be aware that the tower is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.
Consider booking a guided docent-led tour to learn about the 26 artists and the Public Works of Art Project.

Nearby context

Perched atop Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower serves as a beacon for the city. It is located within Pioneer Park, providing a scenic route for walkers exploring the heights of the city's residential areas.

Quick facts