Coit Tower: A San Francisco Icon
Experience stunning views and rich history at Coit Tower, the iconic San Francisco landmark adorned with beautiful murals.
Coit Tower, an iconic landmark in San Francisco, is a must-see for every traveler exploring the city. Standing proudly atop Telegraph Hill, this art deco tower was built in 1933 and has become a symbol of the city’s rich history. As you ascend the tower, prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking views of the San Francisco skyline, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the Bay. The panoramic vistas are particularly stunning at sunset, when the city lights begin to twinkle against the darkening sky. Inside, Coit Tower is home to a remarkable collection of murals, painted during the Great Depression as part of a public works program. These stunning artworks depict scenes of California life and reflect the social and economic struggles of the era. The murals add a cultural depth to your visit, making it an educational experience as well as a scenic one. Be sure to take your time to appreciate the artistry and the stories behind each piece. Visiting Coit Tower is free, but there is a nominal fee for accessing the observation deck. The tower operates from 10 AM to 4 PM daily, which provides ample opportunity for visitors to plan their trip. Keep in mind that the path leading to the tower is steep, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply looking for a picturesque spot to take photos, Coit Tower should be on your San Francisco itinerary.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos.
- Don’t forget to explore the surrounding park area for a relaxing stroll amidst beautiful gardens.
- Check out the murals inside the tower; they provide fascinating insights into California's history.
- Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views from the top of the tower.
A brief summary to Coit Tower
- 1 Telegraph Hill Blvd, San Francisco, Telegraph Hill, California, 94133, US
- +1415-831-2700
Getting There
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Public Transit
If you are starting from Union Square, take the Muni bus line 30 or 45 from the Powell Street Station. Get off at the stop near the corner of Kearny and Washington Streets. From there, walk north on Kearny Street, which will turn into Grant Avenue. Continue walking until you reach the intersection with Filbert Street. Turn right on Filbert Street and ascend the hill towards Coit Tower, which is approximately a 15-minute walk from the bus stop.
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Walking
If you are near Fisherman's Wharf, head east on Jefferson Street and turn left onto Powell Street. Follow Powell Street until you reach the intersection with Lombard Street. Turn right on Lombard Street and continue until you reach the intersection with Telegraph Hill Blvd. Turn left onto Telegraph Hill Blvd, and Coit Tower will be on your right after a short walk uphill.
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Cable Car
From Powell and Market Streets, board the Powell-Hyde cable car line. Ride until you reach the end of the line at Hyde and Beach Streets. From there, walk east on Beach Street and then turn left onto North Point Street. Continue onto Bay Street and then turn right onto Kearny Street. Walk up Kearny Street until it intersects with Filbert Street. Turn right and walk up Filbert for about 15 minutes until you reach Coit Tower.
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Bike Rental
If you prefer biking, rent a bike from one of the many rental shops near Fisherman's Wharf. Take the bike east on Bay Street, then turn left onto Kearny Street. Follow Kearny as it leads you to Filbert Street. Bike up Filbert Street to reach Coit Tower, enjoying the scenic views along the way. Note that some areas may be steep.
Attractions Nearby to Coit Tower
Landmarks nearby to Coit Tower
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Northeast Waterfront Historic District
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Muir Woods Shuttles and Tours
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Sentinel Building
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Shortest Street in California
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Chinatown Hero's Mural
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California Historical Landmark 192: Site of the Jenny Lind Theatre and San Francisco City Hall
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Chinatown Flags Street
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California Historical Landmark 81: Landing Place of Captain J. B. Montgomery
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San Francisco Historical Society
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California Historical Landmark 87: Site of First United States Mint in California
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Chinese Historical Society of America Museum
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Pier 43 Ferry Arch
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Viewpoint
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Fisherman's Wharf
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Dr. Sun Yat Sen Statue