The Golden Gate Bridge is a suspension bridge that connects San Francisco with Marin County, crossing the strait that gives it its name. It opened in 1937 and has since become one of the most recognisable landmarks in California, and one of the most photographed bridges anywhere in the world. Locals often call it simply the GGB.
What a visit is like
Most people come to see the bridge itself, and it rewards the trip whether you arrive by car, on foot or by bicycle. Walking across gives you a close view of the towers, the cables and the traffic passing overhead, and the vantage points on either side offer some of the best views of the bay. Because the bridge is a working road, plan your visit with the wind and fog in mind: conditions can change quickly, so a light layer is worth bringing.
Around the bridge
- San Francisco itself, with its neighbourhoods, hills and waterfront, lies on the city side of the crossing.
- Marin County, on the northern side, offers a quieter contrast, with small towns and open landscape to explore.
- The surrounding bay area is worth a day of its own, whether you are looking at the water, the city skyline or the coast.
If you want to plan ahead, the bridge can be reached at its address in San Francisco, CA 94129, and its information line is +1-415-921-5858.