Fort Point – Take A Free Tour of The Bay’s History

Many people know San Francisco for the Golden Gate Bridge. What you might not know is that located right at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge is Fort Point. You can see surfers riding the waves at the base of the bridge, sea lions sunbathing on the rocks, and massive tanker ships passing underneath. On the other side, you have the beautiful San Francisco skyline and the refreshing view of the San Francisco Bay.

San Francisco’s Fort Point was built in the mid-1800s to defend the San Francisco Bay during the Civil War. Fort Point is located on the point of land right underneath the Golden Gate Bridge. This geographical location is the basis for its name.

Fort Point never saw any active military action during its commission. The National Parks Service now manages this area as a public museum. Admission to Fort Point is therefore free.

Fort Point Parking

There are quite a few paved parking spots right outside Fort Point, underneath the Golden Gate Bridge. There is a steady stream of cars coming in and out and in the worst-case scenario, there are parking spaces all along the road leading up to Fort Point. Park Rangers will close the gates after sunset although the general area outside the building remains open.

Things To Do at Fort Point

Fort Point is open for you to roam freely, as a museum with exhibits and placards. The architecture itself is amazing and as you take the stairs up to the rooftop it almost feels like you could reach up and touch the bridge. You can visit the fort along with the visitors’ center most days of the week but, even if it is closed, you can still go there to see the bridge.  

Tours at the Fort Point

Different tour options are available at this site. You can have a Park Ranger guided tour or even an evening candlelight tour. The staged cannon firing demonstrations are a family favorite.

You may also opt for a self-guided tour by grabbing a pamphlet on your way into the Fort. Be sure to take your time and wander inside through the ammunitions chamber, the barracks, and up to the lighthouse on your self-guided tour.

Fort Point Candlelight Tour

Seasonally operated Candelight Tours are available. You will have to pre-register for the candlelight tour on the NPS website. The Park Rangers lead you through a night tour through the barracks, recreating the experience of being stationed at the fort in the 1800s.

Fort History Tour

If you opt for the free Ranger-led tours available throughout the day, you will learn about the history, usage, and soldiers’ lives as you walk through all three levels of the fort.

Learning About How The Golden Gate Was Built

The visitor center has a dedicated theater room, showcasing how the Golden Gate Bridge was built. There are also informational exhibits on the Golden Gate.

Nearby Attractions

Fort Point is easily accessible by car or by Uber. There are convenient pickup and drop off spots. People usually spend an hour or less here. You can take a walk along the Bay afterward but visitors typically go up to the Golden Gate Bridge.

Battery Spencer

Located on the Northside of the bridge, there are hikes and lookouts that provide a different view of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco Skyline.

Batteries to Bluffs Trail

With less than a five-minute drive away from Fort Point, you can find hiking trails overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge.