Background

Cupid's Span: A Iconic San Francisco Landmark

Explore Cupid's Span, an iconic sculpture in San Francisco, symbolizing love and artistry against the stunning backdrop of the Bay.

★★★★★4.7 (472)

Cupid's Span is a stunning sculpture located at the Embarcadero & Folsom Street in San Francisco, capturing the essence of love and art. This giant bow and arrow, created by renowned artists Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen, stands as a playful yet profound symbol of romance. As tourists stroll along the picturesque waterfront, they can appreciate the artistry while enjoying breathtaking views of the Bay. The area is perfect for leisurely walks, photography, and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of San Francisco.

Plan your visit

A brief summary to Cupid's Span

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

📍
The Embarcadero & Folsom Street, San Francisco, Financial District, CA, 94117, US

Explore places near Cupid's Span

    See all →

    Unlock the Best of Cupid's Span

    Find tickets, tours with entry, and experiences available for this location.

    Buy tickets

    No tickets available

    Book tours with entry

    No tours with entry available

    Book tours without entry

    No tours without entry available

    Getting There

    Public Transit

    From Castro Valley, head to the Castro Valley BART station located at 3301 Castro Valley Blvd. Take the BART train towards San Francisco/Daly City. You will need to transfer at the 12th Street/Oakland City Center station. Switch to the train heading towards Embarcadero. Once you arrive at the Embarcadero station, exit the station and head towards the waterfront. Walk along the Embarcadero until you reach the intersection with Folsom Street. Cupid's Span will be right in front of you.

    Bus

    From Castro Valley, take AC Transit bus line 31 at the Castro Valley Transit Center. Ride the bus towards the Bay Fair BART station. Once you arrive at Bay Fair, transfer to the BART train towards San Francisco/Daly City. After reaching the Embarcadero station, exit and head towards the waterfront. Walk towards the intersection of Embarcadero & Folsom Street, and you will find Cupid's Span.

    Walking

    If you are in a central area of Castro Valley, consider walking to the Castro Valley BART station as mentioned before. From the station, follow the directions to take the BART train to Embarcadero. Once you arrive, walk towards the waterfront and head to the intersection of Embarcadero & Folsom Street.

    Local tips

    Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and better lighting for photographs.
    Combine your visit with a walk along the Embarcadero to enjoy other attractions nearby.
    Bring a picnic to enjoy on the nearby waterfront, soaking in the view of the Bay.
    Check local event calendars for any nearby festivals or events that might enhance your visit.

    Discover more about Cupid's Span

    Cupid's Span is a captivating sculpture located at the Embarcadero and Folsom Street in San Francisco, and it stands as a testament to the city's artistic spirit and romantic essence. Created by the acclaimed duo Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen, this striking installation features a giant bow and arrow that playfully pierces the ground, evoking themes of love and connection. The sculpture is not only a visual delight but also serves as a popular meeting point and photo backdrop for both locals and tourists alike. Surrounded by the bustling energy of the Financial District, Cupid's Span offers a tranquil escape where visitors can relax and enjoy views of the San Francisco Bay. The nearby waterfront promenade is perfect for leisurely strolls, with plenty of opportunities to capture stunning photos of the sculpture against the backdrop of the bay and the iconic Bay Bridge. The area is also home to various cafés and shops, creating a vibrant atmosphere that enhances the overall experience. Visiting Cupid's Span is best combined with a walk along the Embarcadero, where you can explore other attractions such as the Ferry Building Marketplace and the historic Pier 7. Whether you're seeking a romantic outing, a unique photo opportunity, or simply a moment to appreciate art in public spaces, Cupid's Span is a must-see destination that embodies the charm and creativity of San Francisco.

    A brief summary to Cupid's Span

    Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.

    Mobile App
    Get the app

    Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

    Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.

    Free picture: riverbank, spring time, landscape, river, nature, water,  grass, outdoors, summer, wood

    More about Castro Valley

    Explore Castro Valley: A serene suburban haven in California with scenic parks, rich culture, and easy access to the Bay Area's top attractions.

    Tell me more about Castro Valley

    Select Currency

    Choose the currency you want prices to display in.