Golden Gate Bridge

Golden Gate Bridge which includes a bay or harbour, night scenes and a marina
Golden Gate Bridge showing landscape views, a bridge and general coastal views
Golden Gate Bridge
Golden Gate Bridge which includes landscape views, a suspension bridge or treetop walkway and a bridge
Golden Gate Bridge showing landscape views, boating and general coastal views


Don’t drive it, walk it. Walking this 2.7 kilometre iconic bridge is a real experience, best appreciated on two legs.

The Golden Gate Bridge stretches 2.7 kilometres across the opening of San Francisco Bay out to the Pacific Ocean, otherwise known as the “Golden Gate”. As one of the most photographed bridges in the world, it never fails to inspire both visitors and locals with its sheer size and beauty. Although often covered in mist, it’s worth waiting for a clear day for your own photo opportunity, although crossing it on foot shouldn’t be missed whatever the weather.

The Golden Gate Bridge was opened to the world in 1937 after four years of construction. Designed to withstand winds of more than 160 kilometres an hour, the single-span suspension bridge connects San Francisco with nearby Marin County. The Golden Gate Bridge was once the longest suspension bridge in the world, but has now lost that title several times over, but that hasn’t affected its popularity in any way.

You can’t beat the views from the bridge itself, with vistas of the city skyline and bay area and the Pacific Ocean and rolling Marin Headlands to the north. Pick a clear day, leave your car behind and walk or cycle across the bridge for the best views. Bear in mind that pedestrians can only cross the bridge during the day. Stay on the eastern sidewalk, which is separated from the road by a barrier. If you’re cycling, you can use both eastern and western sidewalks. It can get pretty windy up on the bridge, so bring extra layers of clothing to protect yourself from the cold!

For one of the best views of the bridge itself, head north to Vista Point, where the bridge meets Marin County. It’s fantastic at any time of day, but stunning in the early morning as the sun rises, or after sunset when the whole bridge is lit up.

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Popular places to visit


Top Golden Gate Bridge Hotel Deals

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

3.5 out of 5
1500 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf

Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf

4 out of 5
2500 Mason St, San Francisco, CA
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
My Rosegarden Guest Rooms

My Rosegarden Guest Rooms

2 out of 5
75 20th Ave, San Francisco, CA
My Rosegarden Guest Rooms
Inn at Golden Gate

Inn at Golden Gate

2 out of 5
2707 Lombard St, San Francisco, CA
Inn at Golden Gate
La Luna Inn, an Ascend Collection Hotel

La Luna Inn, an Ascend Collection Hotel

2.5 out of 5
2599 Lombard St, San Francisco, CA
La Luna Inn, an Ascend Collection Hotel
Marina Motel

Marina Motel

2 out of 5
2576 Lombard Street, San Francisco, CA
Marina Motel
Alpha Inn & Suites

Alpha Inn & Suites

2 out of 5
2505 Lombard Steet, San Francisco, CA
Alpha Inn & Suites
Cavallo Point

Cavallo Point

4.5 out of 5
601 Murray Circle, Fort Baker, Sausalito, CA
Cavallo Point
Signature Inn San Francisco Marina District

Signature Inn San Francisco Marina District

2 out of 5
2440 Lombard St, San Francisco, CA
Signature Inn San Francisco Marina District
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Golden Gate Bridge

As you visit the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, indulge in breathtaking sunsets and explore the vibrant local art scene. Don't miss the opportunity for San Francisco sightseeing, where you can discover the city's rich history and culture, including its renowned theatres. This enchanting area offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban charm, ensuring a memorable experience during your vacation.

Shopping

For shopping near the Golden Gate Bridge, visit Ghirardelli Square, just 4.8km away, offering a vibrant mix of entertainment and family-friendly shops. Union Street, also 4.8km away, has a similar atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, Main Street is 8.0km away, offering a charming shopping experience.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Oracle Park, where you can enjoy a thrilling sports event. For a dose of entertainment, head to Bill Graham Civic Auditorium for captivating concerts. Chase Center also offers exciting sporting events, ensuring a dynamic and energising experience close to the Golden Gate Bridge.

Adventure

The Coastal Trail, located 3.2km from the Golden Gate Bridge, offers stunning scenery and an exhilarating hiking experience. At Union Square Ice Rink, 6.4km away, enjoy ice skating amidst the vibrant city atmosphere. Perimeter Road, also 6.4km from the bridge, provides fantastic outdoor vibes for exploration.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Golden Gate Bridge by catching a show at SHN Curran Theatre, just 6.4km away, for a blend of culture and romance. Alternatively, enjoy a film at Sundance Kabuki Cinemas, 4.8km away, perfect for entertainment and intimate moments.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Golden Gate Bridge

When visiting the Golden Gate Bridge, tourists can explore a variety of attractions, including urban parks, streets, and beaches. The area offers a blend of cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, and outdoor adventures. Key points of interest include the iconic Golden Gate Bridge itself, Golden Gate Park, and nearby reviews that highlight the charm of the location. This diverse range of options ensures a memorable experience for all visitors.

  • Golden Gate Park: This expansive urban park offers a serene escape from the city buzz, featuring lush gardens, tranquil lakes, and cultural institutions. Perfect for families, it's ideal for leisurely strolls, picnics, and outdoor activities amidst stunning city views.
  • Pier 39: A bustling jetty filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment, Pier 39 provides a vibrant atmosphere with stunning views of the bay. Enjoy the lively sea lions basking nearby, and indulge in delicious seafood while soaking up the friendly local vibe.
  • Alcatraz Island: This historic island, once a notorious prison, offers fascinating tours that reveal its intriguing past. Explore the outdoor spaces and enjoy breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco skyline from this unique location.

Best time to go to Golden Gate Bridge

The best time to visit Golden Gate Bridge is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. September is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January51.4°F (10.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
February52.2°F (11.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March53.4°F (11.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April55.8°F (13.2°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May58.1°F (14.5°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June62.1°F (16.7°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
July63.1°F (17.3°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
August64.2°F (17.9°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly High
September64.9°F (18.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October62.6°F (17.0°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly High
November56.1°F (13.4°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
December51.3°F (10.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Golden Gate Bridge

To save money on your visit to the Golden Gate Bridge, consider travelling in February or from November to December when prices are lower. Fridays are the cheapest days to book accommodation, while Tuesdays tend to be the priciest. Use Expedia to compare hotel prices, filter for eco-friendly options, and explore package deals that bundle flights and activities for additional savings. Don't forget to take advantage of free activities in the area, and utilise public transport for affordable travel around San Francisco.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Golden Gate Bridge are February and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August to October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Golden Gate Bridge is Friday. The most expensive day to stay around Golden Gate Bridge is Tuesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can easily sort the results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking near the Golden Gate Bridge with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Book Flight + Lodging, save up to 100% of flight price - Savings based on flight + lodging package prices as compared to the price of the same components available for booking separately before all discounts and rewards applied. Your bundled savings cover up to 100% of your flight. Savings vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and travel suppliers. Savings not available on all flight + lodging package bookings.