8 Things to DoNear the Golden Gate Bridge
There are a number of great, iconic attractions to experience on your way to San Francisco's most famous landmark.
Visiting the Golden Gate Bridge is a must for visitors to San Francisco; but did you know about all the fun and interesting attractions near the iconic marvel? Here are our favorite things to do that are close to the Golden Gate Bridge.
Presidio Tunnel Tops
The perfect outing for everyone, visit the newly-completed Presidio Tunnel Tops located just south of the Golden Gate Bridge and within the Presidio national park. This outdoor space features the OUTPOST, a jaw-dropping children's play area open year-round. Walk, run, or bike over one of the two tunnels leading to the Golden Gate Bridge while taking in bridge views plus Angel Island, Alcatraz Island, and southern Marin County. Bring a picnic or purchase food and drinks from food vendors in the park. Take in a First Sunday outdoor event with music and performances on the Community Stage, happening August to November from 1 to 4 p.m.
Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture
Whether you're walking or biking to the bridge, start here. You'll find Fort Mason less than three miles east of the Golden Gate Bridge, near the Marina Green. What was once a point of departure for U.S. Navy sailors is now a creative compound that houses galleries, restaurants, theater companies, and Off the Grid food trucks. Fort Mason is also the staging ground for many major San Francisco festivals, including Eat Drink SF.
The Palace of Fine Arts
This enormous classical structure is all that remains of the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exhibition, which brought visitors back to San Francisco after the devastation of the 1906 earthquake and fire. Stand beneath its soaring dome or stroll along its neighboring lagoon. Wherever you are, you're guaranteed to get a breathtaking photo that will surely boost your Instagram following.
Crissy Field
Decades ago, the Presidio's Crissy Field was a military airfield. Now, it's a much loved part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, and Mother Nature has been allowed to reclaim what she lost. This peaceful park shoreline leading to the Golden Gate Bridge by foot, bike, or car is once again alive with birds, fish and countless native plants. Set paths and a boardwalk make it an easy place to explore.
The Walt Disney Family Museum
Located within the Presidio and facing the Main Parade Lawn, The Walt Disney Family Museum delights both children and adults by celebrating beloved Disney classics and more. The surprises don’t stop there with new interactive exhibits about the famed animator, his revolutionary career, and the natural world all around us.
Buy TicketsAndy Goldsworthy's Art
In the mood for a little scavenger hunt? Artist Andy Goldsworthy has created four site-specific sculptural installations within the Presidio, all of them reflective of the natural beauty and inspiration this tremendous park provides to visitors. Can you find them all?
Fort Point
Who knew that one of the oldest buildings in San Francisco sits underneath the Golden Gate Bridge? Fort Point dates to the American Civil War. Visitors can explore its barracks, officers' quarters, and battlements. Take a guided ranger-led tour or explore the fort during a Candlelight Tour from November through February. Dress for cool, windy weather.
The Wave Organ
Installed in 1986, The Wave Organ is an acoustic, wave-activated sculpture built on the jetty that forms the small boat harbor in the Marina. Constructed of concrete and 25 PVC pipes, positioned at specific heights and depths, the organ creates natural, never-repeated melodies, powered solely by the rise and fall of the tides.