Coit Tower: A San Francisco Icon

Iconic San Francisco landmark offering panoramic views and Depression-era murals atop Telegraph Hill; a tribute to Lillie Hitchcock Coit.

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Coit Tower

Coit Tower, a slender white tower atop Telegraph Hill, is a San Francisco landmark offering panoramic city and bay views. Built in 1933 with a bequest from Lillie Hitchcock Coit, it features striking Depression-era murals and stands as a tribute to the city's volunteer firefighters.

A brief summary to Coit Tower

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

Arrive early, especially during peak season, to avoid long lines for the elevator to the observation deck.
Take the time to explore the murals on the ground floor; they offer a fascinating glimpse into California during the 1930s.
Consider taking public transportation or walking, as parking near Coit Tower is limited.
Check the operating hours before you go, as they vary depending on the season.
If the elevator is out of service, be prepared to climb 13 flights of stairs to reach the top.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Fisherman's Wharf, take the Muni #39 bus directly to Coit Tower. The bus will drop you off near the entrance on Greenwich Street. A single ride on Muni costs $3. Alternatively, from downtown, take either the #30 or #45 bus to Washington Square and transfer to the #39 Coit Tower bus. Check the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency website for the most up-to-date schedules.
Walking

For a scenic walk, start from North Beach and ascend Telegraph Hill via the Filbert Street or Greenwich Street steps. These steps pass through charming gardens and offer stunning city views. Be prepared for a steep climb, allow about 30 minutes at a moderate pace. There is no cost for walking.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services can take you directly to Coit Tower. From downtown San Francisco, a typical ride will cost approximately $15-18 and take about 6 minutes. Be aware that traffic on Telegraph Hill Boulevard can be heavy, especially during peak hours.

Discover more about Coit Tower

Coit Tower, rising 210 feet above Telegraph Hill, is an iconic symbol of San Francisco. Completed in 1933, the Art Deco tower was funded by a bequest from Lillie Hitchcock Coit, a wealthy socialite and avid supporter of the city's volunteer firefighters. Coit, known for her eccentric personality, left a portion of her estate to beautify San Francisco, resulting in the construction of the tower and a statue in Washington Square. The tower's design, by architects Arthur Brown Jr. and Henry Temple Howard, features unpainted reinforced concrete. While some believe it resembles a fire hose nozzle, this is disputed. Inside, vibrant fresco murals, created as part of the Public Works of Art Project, depict scenes of California life during the Great Depression. These murals, painted by 25 artists, showcase various aspects of society, including agriculture, industry, and social issues. Visitors can take an elevator to the observation deck for 360-degree views of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and more. The ground floor and mural viewing are free to the public. Guided tours are available for a fee, offering insights into the tower's history and the murals' significance. Coit Tower is a designated San Francisco Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It remains a beloved attraction, offering a glimpse into the city's past and stunning views of its present.