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San Francisco, California / Landmarks

Golden Gate Bridge

An iconic suspension bridge spanning the Golden Gate strait, connecting San Francisco to Marin County and serving as a world-renowned symbol of California.

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Golden Gate Bridge
www.goldengate.org, website_hero_img_www.goldengate.org

What is the Golden Gate Bridge known for?

It is a suspension bridge that connects San Francisco to Marin County and is widely recognized as one of the most internationally recognized symbols of San Francisco and California, as well as one of the Wonders of the Modern World.

What are the hours for visiting?

The bridge is open 24/7 for vehicles and cyclists, while the sidewalk is open to visitors daily from sunrise to sunset. The Welcome Center is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., except on Thanksgiving and Christmas.

How much does it cost to cross?

There is a southbound toll on U.S. 101 crossing the bridge, which applies all days and all hours.

How long does it take to walk across the bridge?

Walking across the 1.7-mile bridge typically takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes.

When did the bridge open?

The bridge opened in May 1937.

What should I check before going?

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

What to know

The Golden Gate Bridge is a suspension bridge that spans the one-mile-wide Golden Gate strait, connecting the San Francisco Peninsula to Marin County. It carries U.S. Route 101 and California State Route 1, serving as a vital link between the San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Recognized by the American Society of Civil Engineers as one of the Wonders of the Modern World, the bridge is one of the most internationally recognized symbols of San Francisco and California. Construction began in 1933, and the bridge officially opened in May 1937. The San Francisco city government describes it as a breathtaking gateway to the Pacific Ocean. The structure is maintained by the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District, a special district of the State of California. For visitors, the bridge is 1.7 miles long. Walking across the span typically takes between 45 to 60 minutes. The bridge's sidewalks are open to pedestrians daily from sunrise to sunset, while vehicles and cyclists are open 24/7. Local culture often refers to the thick cloud layer that frequently obscures the bridge as 'Karl the Fog.' This advection fog forms when warm, moist air passes over colder water, creating tiny liquid droplets that are drawn through the Golden Gate strait. This weather phenomenon has become a local personality in its own right, with a dedicated social media presence.

Visitor tips

  • The sidewalk is open to visitors daily from sunrise to sunset.
  • Allow 45 to 60 minutes to walk across the 1.7-mile span.
  • Visit the Welcome Center, open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. except Thanksgiving and Christmas.
  • If driving southbound on US 101, be prepared for a toll.

Nearby context

The bridge connects the northern tip of the San Francisco Peninsula to Marin County, spanning the Golden Gate strait which connects the San Francisco Bay to the Pacific Ocean.

Sources

Evidence and links