Coit Tower: San Francisco Icon

Ascend to San Francisco's iconic Coit Tower for panoramic city views and a glimpse into Depression-era art, a testament to Lillie Hitchcock Coit's vision.

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Perched atop Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower is an enduring symbol of San Francisco, offering panoramic city and bay views. Built in 1933 with a bequest from Lillie Hitchcock Coit, the 210-foot art deco tower showcases vibrant Depression-era murals inside its base, created as part of the Public Works of Art Project. Visitors can ascend to the observation deck for a 360-degree vista encompassing the Golden Gate and Bay Bridges, Alcatraz, and the city skyline. While access to the murals is free, a small fee applies to ride the elevator to the top. Limited parking and the tower's popularity often lead to queues, but the stunning views and historical significance make it a worthwhile destination. Consider a scenic walk up Filbert or Greenwich Street steps for a unique approach.

A brief summary to Coit Tower

1 Telegraph Hill Blvd, San Francisco, Telegraph Hill, California, 94133, US
+1415-831-2700
Visit website

Monday 10 am-4 pm
Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
Thursday 10 am-4 pm
Friday 10 am-4 pm
Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

Take the #39 bus from Fisherman's Wharf to avoid the hassle of limited parking and traffic congestion on Telegraph Hill.
Consider walking up the Filbert or Greenwich Street steps for a scenic and unique approach to Coit Tower, passing through charming gardens.
Check the elevator status before your visit, as it's subject to occasional mechanical issues, potentially requiring a climb up 13 flights of stairs.
Explore the ground floor murals for free, even if you don't plan to ascend to the observation deck.
Visit during off-peak hours (early morning or late afternoon) to avoid crowds and long queues for the elevator.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Fisherman's Wharf, take the Muni #39 Coit bus directly to Coit Tower. The bus drops you off near Greenwich Street, a short walk from the tower entrance. A single ride fare is around $3. Allow approximately 20-30 minutes for the journey, depending on traffic. Alternatively, from downtown, take either the #30 or #45 line to Washington Square, located at the corners of Union & Columbus and transfer to the #39 Coit Tower bus.
Walking

For a scenic and active approach, walk up Telegraph Hill via the Filbert or Greenwich Street steps. Start from the Embarcadero and follow Filbert Street, which turns into a stairway. The climb is steep but rewarding, passing through charming gardens and offering glimpses of the bay. From North Beach, walk towards Lombard Street and turn onto Filbert or Greenwich. Allow 30-45 minutes for the ascent, depending on your fitness level. Be aware that the climb involves numerous steps.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Request a taxi or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) to Coit Tower. The driver will navigate to 1 Telegraph Hill Blvd. Be aware that traffic congestion on Telegraph Hill can be significant, especially during peak hours, potentially increasing the fare. A ride from Fisherman's Wharf or North Beach typically costs $15-$25, depending on demand and traffic. Note that drop-off may be slightly away from the entrance due to traffic.
Driving

Driving to Coit Tower is possible, but parking is extremely limited. Follow signs uphill from Stockton Street in North Beach. There is a small parking lot near the tower, but it is often full, especially on weekends. Weekdays allow for 30-minute parking, but waits can be long. Parking at 417 Greenwich Street is an alternative. Consider parking in North Beach and walking up. If you find parking near Coit Tower, expect to pay around $30 for 2 hours. Be prepared for narrow, winding roads and potential traffic delays.

Discover more about Coit Tower

Coit Tower, a slender, white concrete column gracing the summit of Telegraph Hill, has been a defining feature of San Francisco's skyline since its completion in 1933. More than just a visual landmark, it represents a fascinating intersection of art, history, and civic pride, beckoning both residents and tourists alike. The tower owes its existence to Lillie Hitchcock Coit, a wealthy and eccentric socialite who bequeathed a significant portion of her estate to the city with the express purpose of "adding to its beauty." Coit, a fervent admirer of San Francisco's volunteer firefighters, left an indelible mark on the city's cultural landscape. While popular lore suggests the tower's design resembles a fire hose nozzle, this remains unconfirmed. Arthur Brown Jr., the architect behind City Hall, designed the art deco masterpiece. Inside the tower's base, a remarkable collection of fresco murals awaits. Painted in 1934 by 26 artists employed through the Public Works of Art Project (PWAP), a New Deal program, these murals offer a vivid glimpse into California life during the Great Depression. The artwork depicts scenes of industry, agriculture, and urban life, reflecting the social and political currents of the era. The murals sparked controversy upon their debut, with some panels deemed too radical. After some elements were painted over, the tower was briefly closed before reopening to the public. Today, they stand as a testament to the power of public art and a valuable historical record. Ascending to the observation deck at the top of Coit Tower is an essential San Francisco experience. From this vantage point, a breathtaking 360-degree panorama unfolds. The Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island dominate the view to the west, while the Bay Bridge stretches eastward towards Oakland. The city itself sprawls below, a tapestry of colorful buildings and bustling streets. On a clear day, the views are simply unparalleled, offering a unique perspective on San Francisco's iconic landmarks and natural beauty. Beyond the tower itself, Pioneer Park, which surrounds Coit Tower, provides additional opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Established in 1876 on the site of a former telegraph station, the park offers walking paths, gardens, and picnic areas, making it an ideal spot to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy the views. The park's history is intertwined with the city's maritime past, as the telegraph station once played a crucial role in communicating the arrival of ships to San Francisco Bay. Visiting Coit Tower requires a bit of planning. Parking is notoriously limited, and the narrow, winding roads leading to the tower can become congested, especially during peak hours. Public transportation is highly recommended, with the #39 bus providing direct access from Fisherman's Wharf. Alternatively, a scenic walk up Telegraph Hill's eastern slope via the Filbert or Greenwich Street steps offers a unique and rewarding experience, passing through charming gardens and residential areas. Once inside the tower, visitors can explore the ground floor murals free of charge. To access the observation deck, tickets must be purchased on-site. Be aware that the elevator, nearly 90 years old, is subject to occasional mechanical issues, requiring visitors to climb 13 flights of stairs. Despite these potential inconveniences, the stunning views and historical significance of Coit Tower make it a must-see destination for any visitor to San Francisco. The Coit Tower Cafe, located nearby, offers snacks and beverages, providing a convenient option for refreshments before or after your visit. Note that food and drinks are not allowed inside the tower itself. Coit Tower stands as a testament to San Francisco's rich history, artistic spirit, and enduring beauty. Whether you're drawn to its panoramic views, its Depression-era murals, or its connection to a colorful chapter in the city's past, a visit to Coit Tower is an unforgettable experience. The tower has also appeared in several movies, including *The House on Telegraph Hill* (1951), *Pal Joey* (1957), and *Homeward Bound II: Lost in San Francisco* (1996). In March and April of 2025, construction will be ongoing near Coit Tower to make the area more accessible to visitors. You may encounter some limitations in parking and in Muni service during this time.

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Coit Tower: San Francisco Icon

A brief summary to Coit Tower

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Walking

Taxi/Ride-Share

Driving

Unlock the Best of Coit Tower

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Coit Tower

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Lombard St & Kearny St

One Lombard Street

California Historical Landmark 1024: Briones Rancho Site

Washington Square

Pier 31 (1917)

Northeast Waterfront Historic District

Jazz Mural

0 Jack Kerouac Alley

Muir Woods Shuttles and Tours

Jackson Square Historic District

Jackson Square

Sentinel Building

Shortest Street in California

Chinatown Hero's Mural

Klamath (Historic Ship)

Unmissable attractions to see

Pioneer Park

Telegraph Hill

Filbert Steps

The Savoy Tivoli

Jack Early Park

Soft Park - Levi's Plaza

Saints Peter and Paul Church

National Shrine of St. Francis of Assisi

Essential places to dine

Sotto Mare

Portofino

Original Joe's

Red Window

The Stinking Rose

Cassava

Betty Lou's Seafood & Grill

Mona Lisa Restaurant

Tosca Cafe

Quince

House of Nanking

Bix

FUSION DUMPLING

Bund Shanghai Restaurant

New Lun Ting Cafe

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Vacation

Via Margutta Vintage

WORK

Happy House

Missing Audrey Vintage

SFOG North Beach

Good View Trading Co

Vigi Boutique

Up & Up Gift Shop

Souvenir Shop

Exploratorium Store

Only In San Francisco

Yat On Gift Shop

Under the Golden Gate

Peking Bazaar

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Gino & Carlo

Maggie McGarry's

Tony Nik's CAFE

The Showdown

The Saloon

15 Romolo

Bodega North Beach

Cold Drinks Bar

The Devil's Acre