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Coit Tower: San Francisco Icon

Iconic San Francisco landmark offering panoramic city views and housing historic Depression-era murals on Telegraph Hill.

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Coit Tower, a slender white concrete tower on Telegraph Hill, has been a San Francisco landmark since 1933. Built with funds bequeathed by Lillie Hitchcock Coit to beautify San Francisco, the tower offers panoramic views of the city and bay and houses Depression-era murals.

A brief summary to Coit Tower

  • 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 top of the tower.
  • Consider taking public transportation or walking to Coit Tower, as parking is very limited.
  • Take the time to explore the murals inside the tower and learn about their historical context.
  • Bring a jacket, as it can be windy and cool at the top of Telegraph Hill.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Fisherman's Wharf, take the Muni #39 Coit bus directly to Coit Tower. The bus also runs from Washington Square in North Beach. A single ride on Muni costs $3. Check the SFMTA website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and fare information.

  • Walking

    From North Beach or the Embarcadero, ascend Telegraph Hill via the Filbert Street Steps or the Greenwich Street Steps. These stairways offer a scenic, albeit strenuous, route to Coit Tower, passing through gardens and charming residential areas. There is no cost for walking.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services can take you directly to Coit Tower. Expect a fare of $15-18 from downtown San Francisco. Be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours, and there may be a line of cars waiting to access the parking area.

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Discover more about Coit Tower

Coit Tower, formally known as the Lillian Coit Memorial Tower, stands as an iconic symbol of San Francisco. Completed in 1933, the 210-foot Art Deco tower graces the summit of Telegraph Hill, offering visitors unparalleled 360-degree views of the city, the bay, and beyond. The tower's origins trace back to Lillie Hitchcock Coit, a wealthy socialite and eccentric figure known for her love of San Francisco and her fascination with the city's firefighters. Upon her death in 1929, Coit bequeathed a significant portion of her estate to the city with the express wish that it be used to beautify San Francisco. The Coit Tower was the result of this bequest. Inside the tower's base, a series of vibrant and historically significant murals adorn the walls. These murals, created in 1934 as part of the Public Works of Art Project, depict scenes of California life during the Great Depression. The murals showcase the work and lives of Californians, and offer a glimpse into the social and economic realities of the era. The artists, including well-known names like Bernard Zakheim and John Langley Howard, employed the fresco technique to create these lasting works of art. Visiting Coit Tower offers a multifaceted experience. Ascend to the observation deck for breathtaking views of landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the city skyline. Explore the murals and learn about their creation and the artists behind them. Take a stroll through Pioneer Park, the green space surrounding the tower, and enjoy the natural beauty of Telegraph Hill. Whether you're drawn to its architectural significance, its artistic treasures, or its stunning views, Coit Tower is a must-see destination for anyone exploring San Francisco.

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