Golden Gate Visitor Guide

Golden Gate Bridge Visitor Guide

The Golden Gate Bridge is 1.2 miles long. Able to withstand wind speeds as high as 100 miles per hour, it has been masterfully engineered to be flexible enough to sway as far as 27 feet without danger or damage.

Pedestrians and bicyclists have access to the pathways on either side of the Bridge. Generally, pedestrians use the pathway on the east side, and bicyclists use the pathway on the west side.

The bridge toll for vehicles is $8.00 equipped with a FasTrak device. It is collected electronically as cars pass through the toll plaza and enter San Francisco. The automatic electronic system is run by FasTrack. If you do not have FasTrak, an invoice will be sent to you on the basis of car identification (rentals included) charging $8.70. As there are no cash payments, do not stop at the toll booths.

On the south side of the Bridge, you will find the Bridge Pavilion, which features outdoor exhibits that are both interactive and informative, a wide selection of San Francisco souvenirs and collectibles for sale, the original 12-foot stainless steel Bridge "test tower" that was used in 1933 during the construction of the Bridge, and more.

On the north side of the Bridge, you will be treated to a breathtaking view of the Bay Area that ranks second to none. From there, the entire city skyline, including Alcatraz and Angel Island, can be seen, and, on a clear day, you can even see the hills of Oakland and Berkeley.

Walking the Golden Gate Bridge takes about an hour for a round trip. Have fun, and be sure to bring a jacket because the weather can be cold out there!