Plan Your Trip to the Golden Gate Bridge

Hey there, traveler! Planning a trip to San Francisco and want to check out one of its most iconic landmarks, the Golden Gate Bridge? Well, you’re in luck because getting there is a breeze!

There are several ways to see the Golden Gate Bridge, including walking the bridge for free, visiting the Welcome Center, or taking a tour. The best time to see the bridge depends on your desired activity, but you can visit anytime from 5:30am-6pm or 8pm in the summer. The Welcome Center has two parking lots, public restrooms, and displays about the history of the bridge. There are also several options for getting to the bridge without a car, including taking a bus or purchasing a 2-day hop on hop off pass from Big Bus. If you want to explore more of the bridge, you can go on a guided bike tour, sunset sailing cruise, seaplane flight or helicopter tour.

Let’s start with the most classic mode of transportation: the MUNI bus. If you’re looking for an easy and affordable way to get to the south-end Welcome Center, grab one of these bus routes from downtown or Union Square: 101, 30, or 70. Or, if you’re starting from Civic Center, take bus routes 101, 30, 70, 92, or 93. A one-way trip will only cost you $2.25.

But wait, there’s more! If you want to make the most of your trip to the Golden Gate Bridge and check out other sights in the city, consider hopping on a hop on hop off double-decker sightseeing tour by Big Bus. These buses will take you on a tour of the city, stopping at the Welcome Center and Vista Point so you can walk the bridge. Just be sure to weigh the cost and make sure it’s worth it for you if you’re only planning to hit up the bridge and a few other spots.

If you’re driving, you’ll find a very small parking lot at the Welcome Center and a larger one at Battery East. There is also free parking lot at Vista Point on the north end. 

If you want a more convenient option, why not try an Uber or Lyft? It’ll cost you around $20 to $27 one way from downtown to the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center.

You can take a double-decker bus tour on Big Bus, which will take you over the bridge and give you a great view of the city. If you prefer a more personalized experience, consider taking a San Francisco Jeep tour. These tours take small groups on an off-road adventure through the city and over the bridge.

For a more active adventure, consider renting an electric scooter with GPS-enabled routes to the bridge. You’ll be able to see the sights and enjoy the breeze as you scoot your way to the bridge.

Here are a few additional ways to see the Golden Gate Bridge:

1. Boat Cruise: A boat tour is a great way to see the Golden Gate Bridge from a different perspective and get a taste of San Francisco Bay. You’ll be able to see the bridge up close and admire its stunning beauty from the water.  Sail under the bridge with either the Red and White Fleet or Blue and Gold Fleet. These scenic boat tours offer a unique perspective on the bridge and the city and are a great way to spend a beautiful day on San Francisco Bay.

2. Seaplane or Helicopter Tour: If you’re looking for a more adventurous way to see the bridge, why not take a seaplane or helicopter tour? These tours offer breathtaking views of the city, including the bridge, from above. You’ll get a bird’s eye view of the city and its surroundings and it’s definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience.  San Francisco Seaplane Tours or San Francisco Helicopter Tours offer a variety of daily flights. 

So, those are a few more ways to see the Golden Gate Bridge, besides walking or driving across it. Regardless of how you choose to explore the bridge, it’s sure to be a memorable experience.

Tips for Getting to the Golden Gate Bridge

• If you are driving, take Highway 1 north towards the bridge and look for signs for the Welcome Center or “last exit for the bridge”.
• Take the MUNI bus from downtown to the Welcome Center: (101, 30, 70) or (101, 30,70, 92, 93).
• Take the PresidiGo shuttle or the 30 bus to Crissy Field and Fort Point, and then walk up on the East Bluffs trail.
• Rent a GoRide Electric Scooter or Blazing Saddles bike to get to the bridge.
• Take a San Francisco Jeep tour with a private guide, max 6 guests. This tour takes you over the bridge in a unique and adventurous way.
• Uber or Lyft from downtown to the Bridge Welcome Center

The best way to experience the bridge is by walking across it. You can start at either the Welcome Center or Vista Point, and walk to the other side and back. The walk takes around 1-2 hours, depending on how many stops you make along the way. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes and prepare for windy conditions.

No matter how you choose to get there, the Golden Gate Bridge is a must-see destination for anyone visiting San Francisco. So put on your walking shoes, pack a camera, and get ready for an unforgettable experience!