Coit Tower: San Francisco Icon

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

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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, a patron of the city's firefighters, the 210-foot Art Deco tower houses a collection of striking Depression-era murals. 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 admission to the ground floor and murals is free, a fee applies for the elevator to the top. Limited parking and occasional elevator maintenance can pose challenges, but the stunning views and historical significance make Coit Tower a must-see destination. Consider a scenic walk up the Filbert or Greenwich Street steps for a memorable approach, or take the #39 Muni bus from Fisherman's Wharf.

A brief summary to Coit Tower

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

Arrive early or visit during off-peak hours to avoid long lines for the elevator and limited parking.
Consider taking the scenic Filbert or Greenwich Street steps up Telegraph Hill for a unique and rewarding approach.
Check the Coit Tower website or call ahead to confirm the elevator is operational, as it is subject to occasional maintenance.
Join a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the tower's history, the murals, and the artists who created them.
Bring a jacket, as it can be windy at the top of the tower, especially during the winter months.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Fisherman's Wharf, take the Muni #39 Coit bus directly to Coit Tower. The bus ride offers scenic views and drops you off near the tower entrance. A single ride fare is around $3.00. Alternatively, from downtown, take the #30 or #45 bus to Washington Square and transfer to the #39 Coit Tower bus.
Walking

For a scenic and active approach, walk from North Beach via the Filbert or Greenwich Street steps. These stairways ascend Telegraph Hill, passing through charming gardens and offering stunning city views. Be prepared for a steep climb. From the intersection of Filbert Street and Grant Avenue in North Beach, follow Filbert Street up the steps towards Telegraph Hill.
Taxi/Ride-Share

A taxi or ride-share from Fisherman's Wharf or North Beach to Coit Tower will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around $15-$25. Be aware that traffic on Telegraph Hill can be congested, especially during peak hours.
Driving

Driving to Coit Tower is possible, but parking is extremely limited and often full. On weekdays, visitors are allowed to park in the lot for 30 minutes, but the waits to get into the lot can be lengthy. Parking is primarily for area residents on weekends. If driving, be prepared to park further away and walk uphill. Paid parking lots are available in North Beach, with hourly rates typically ranging from $4 to $8. Examples include the North Beach Parking lot at 535 Green St.

Discover more about Coit Tower

Coit Tower, a slender, white concrete column rising 210 feet above Telegraph Hill, has been a defining feature of San Francisco's skyline since its completion in 1933. More than just a visual landmark, the tower encapsulates the city's spirit of philanthropy, art, and resilience. The tower owes its existence to Lillie Hitchcock Coit, a wealthy and eccentric San Franciscan who passionately supported the city's volunteer firefighters. Upon her death in 1929, Coit bequeathed a significant portion of her estate to the city with the express purpose of "adding to its beauty." This bequest funded both the construction of Coit Tower and a monument to the city's firefighters in nearby Washington Square. The Art Deco tower, designed by Arthur Brown Jr. and Henry Temple Howard, offers a commanding presence. Contrary to popular myth, its design was not inspired by a fire hose nozzle; rather, its simple, fluted form was chosen for its aesthetic appeal and cost-effectiveness. The tower's observation deck, accessible by elevator (though be aware of occasional maintenance closures and the alternative of 13 flights of stairs), provides unparalleled 360-degree views of San Francisco and the surrounding bay. From this vantage point, visitors can take in iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, the Bay Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the winding curves of Lombard Street. Inside the tower's base, a remarkable collection of murals painted in 1934 by 26 different artists under the Public Works of Art Project (PWAP) depicts scenes of California life during the Great Depression. These murals, executed in the fresco style, offer a glimpse into the social and economic realities of the era, portraying themes of labor, industry, and urban life. The murals sparked controversy upon their completion, with some critics objecting to their perceived radical or communist undertones. Despite the initial uproar, the murals were preserved and remain a significant example of Depression-era public art. Visiting Coit Tower offers a multifaceted experience. The ground floor, including access to the murals, is free to the public. For a fee, visitors can take the elevator to the observation deck for the panoramic views. Guided tours, led by knowledgeable docents, provide insights into the tower's history, the artists behind the murals, and the social context in which they were created. These tours typically last 30-40 minutes and offer a deeper understanding of the tower's significance. Beyond the tower itself, Pioneer Park, which surrounds Coit Tower, provides a green space for relaxation and further exploration. The park, established in 1876, offers walking paths, gardens, and additional viewpoints. For a more active approach, consider climbing Telegraph Hill's eastern slope via the Filbert or Greenwich Street steps. These stairways, lined with charming homes and lush gardens, offer a unique and scenic route to the tower. While Coit Tower is a popular destination, potential visitors should be aware of certain practicalities. Parking at the tower is extremely limited, and during peak hours, the wait for a parking spot can be lengthy. Public transportation is recommended, with the #39 Muni bus providing direct access from Fisherman's Wharf. The elevator to the observation deck is subject to occasional maintenance closures, requiring visitors to climb 13 flights of stairs. Despite these potential inconveniences, the stunning views, historical significance, and artistic treasures of Coit Tower make it an essential stop for any visitor to San Francisco. Coit Tower's enduring appeal lies in its ability to connect visitors to San Francisco's past and present. It is a monument to civic pride, artistic expression, and the enduring spirit of a city that continues to captivate the world.