Cupid's Span
Cupid's Span: A Symbol of Love in San Francisco
Cupid's Span: A Whimsical Landmark
San Francisco's iconic Cupid's Span: A monumental sculpture symbolizing love and creativity on the Embarcadero waterfront.
Cupid's Span, a monumental sculpture by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen, graces San Francisco's Embarcadero. This iconic artwork, resembling a partially buried bow and arrow, adds a touch of romance and whimsy to the city's waterfront.
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
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Getting There
Walking
From the Embarcadero BART station, walk north along the Embarcadero waterfront for about 10 minutes. Cupid's Span will be located at the corner of The Embarcadero and Folsom Street. Look for the large sculpture with a bow and arrow.
Public Transport
Take BART to the Embarcadero station. Exit the station and head towards the Embarcadero waterfront. Walk north along the Embarcadero for about 10 minutes. Alternatively, take the Muni F line to the Folsom St stop, which is right next to the park. A single ride on Muni costs $3.00, or $2.50 with a Clipper card. A day pass costs $5.70.
Driving
From I-80 W, take the exit for Fremont Street toward The Embarcadero. Continue on Fremont Street until you reach The Embarcadero. Turn left onto The Embarcadero, and Cupid's Span will be on your right at the intersection with Folsom Street. Street parking is limited. Nearby parking garages include Hills Plaza Garage (25 Folsom St) and Rincon Center Garage (121 Spear St), with hourly rates typically ranging from $10 to $30.
Local tips
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Visit during sunset for stunning views of Cupid's Span with the Bay Bridge in the background.
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Pack a picnic to enjoy on the grassy area of Rincon Park near the sculpture.
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Walk along the Embarcadero to explore other nearby attractions and enjoy the waterfront scenery.
Discover more about Cupid's Span
Located in Rincon Park along the Embarcadero, Cupid's Span is a prominent sculpture created by the artistic duo Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen. Installed in 2002, the 64-foot tall structure depicts a bow and arrow partially submerged in the ground. The artists drew inspiration from San Francisco's reputation as the home of Eros, the Greek god of love, to create this unique piece.
The sculpture's inverted positioning has multiple interpretations. Some view it as a symbol of love and fertility, with Cupid's arrow striking the earth to bring new life. Others see the bow's curve as an echo of the Bay Bridge's suspension, creating a visual harmony between art and architecture. The work was commissioned by Donald and Doris Fisher, founders of Gap Inc., adding another layer to its cultural significance.
Visiting Cupid's Span offers a chance to appreciate public art against the backdrop of San Francisco Bay. The surrounding Rincon Park provides green space for relaxation and recreation, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. From this vantage point, one can enjoy views of the Bay Bridge and the bustling Embarcadero.
A brief summary to Cupid's Span
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