Golden Gate Bridge

San Francisco Hotel near Golden Gate Bridge California Golden Gate Bridge Vista Points San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge Facts

Nothing says San Francisco like the Golden Gate Bridge. This inimitable suspension bridge crosses the Golden Gate Strait, connecting San Francisco with Marin County. At the time of its completion in 1937, the Golden Gate Bridge was the world's largest suspension bridge.

The 1.7 mile-long bridge currently ranks as the second longest in the country. Number one is New York City's Verrazano-Narrows Bridge. Tourists from all walks of life love to photograph the bridge or take a leisurely stroll across it (most days through the famous fog). For more information, visit http://goldengatebridge.org/.

Golden Gate Bridge Vista Points -

There are two places where you can park your car and get excellent views of the Golden Gate Bridge. South Vista Point is the San Francisco side. You'll need to remember to bring lots of change with you as there is metered parking. Spectacular views make the trip totally worth it. Plus, there's a gift shop, café, and bridge exhibit.

North Vista Point is on the Marin County side. The parking lot is accessible only from Highway 101 going northbound. The bridge views are just as breathtaking. Best of all, parking is free for up to four hours. For more information, visit http://gocalifornia.about.com/cs/sanfrancisco/a/ggbridge.htm.

Golden Gate Bridge Facts -

If there's ever a trivia contest featuring questions about the Golden Gate Bridge, these fast facts will stand you in good stead. The bridge, which was opened to car traffic on May 28, 1937, took more than four years to build.

The total cost was $35 million. At 4,200 feet long, the main suspension span was a world record for 27 years. The bridge's two towers rise 746 feet, which is about 200 feet taller than the Washington Monument. For more information, visit www.inetours.com/Pages/SFNbrhds/Golden_Gate_Bridge.html.