Fort Point felt like the Golden Gate Bridge's bodyguard. Everybody pulls up to see the bridge, but this brick fortress sitting directly under it looks like it's been standing on business since before steel was invented. Built in the Civil War era, this place was literally guarding the entrance to the bay. Basically if ships wanted to pull up to San Francisco back in the day, they had to check in with the cannons first. Standing there you realize they weren't playing, the walls thick, windows lined up perfectly for artillery, and the ocean right in front like a front door camera. Now obviously nobody firing anything anymore, it's preserved as a historic site, but the energy still feels tactical. You've got waves crashing, wind whipping through the corridors, and then you look up and the Golden Gate Bridge is hovering right over your head like a next gen upgrade installed on top of a 1800s expansion pack. This is easily one of the coldest photo spots in the city. From up top you get crazy angles of the bridge you don't see in postcards, and from below you realize how massive the structure actually is. Half history lesson, half cinematic backdrop. Walking through the inside felt like a Call of Duty map with museum lighting. Quiet, echoey, and lowkey dramatic. If Battery Godfrey was the lookout, Fort Point was the bouncer checking IDs at the entrance to San Francisco. read more

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This was the first time actually visiting Fort Point! I am surprised I never took the time to do it before as I've been crabbing numerous times at Torpedo Wharf which is less than 100 yards away! [disclaimer: taken from the internet] "Fort Point National Historic Site is a Civil War-era brick fort built between 1853 and 1861, beneath the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. The fort was built to defend the bay from the Gold Rush era through World War II. Known as the "Gibraltar of the West Coast," it's a prime example of 19th-century masonry and military engineering, featuring arched casemates and a design that was rendered obsolete by new artillery, so it never fired in combat." It was a clear and beautiful day to see the fort and the surrounding area. read more

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Civil War era fort placed snug under the Golden Gate Bridge. I first came here on an overnight field trip while in elementary school. It was a once in a lifetime experience. We studied the history and then acted as Union Army service members. I vividly remember having to take guard duty at around midnight. Each of us students had to do it and the experience was magical. I went to the battlements and looked out at the windy foggy magnificent Pacific Ocean. A very special place with unique views of under the bridge, sea and Bay. A meaningful liminal space where the magic happens. read more

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Been here more times than I can count. My kids love this place & I love taking them. Coming here is never boring & parking has never been a problem. My dream is to have a paintball competition here. read more

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Historian buffs rejoice Fort point dates back to the Civil War and stands the test of time. Such a cool place with so much history and so well intact it is a must visit if you come to San Francisco read more

Fort Point - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - San Francisco, California

National historic land mark minus the crowd (automatic five star). Greeted by what I assume are park rangers, loaded with knowledge right at the entrance. There were placards everywhere describing how the fort came to be, a theater room that played a 19min long film that also told the history on the first floor, a book store. Each level has some kind of walk through exhibit. Actual cannons placed throughout. Another area with projections telling a day to day of soldiers. Outside was an amazing view of the bridge and we even got a little show from a couple sea lions, just living their best lives. read more

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Never knew that a historic Civil War fort was located in San Francisco. We had an amazing docent who told us so much about the structure and also guided us through an amazing exhibit Black Gold Stories Untold that runs through November 2,2025. Thursday-Monday 10-5. The history, the art exhibit the views were incredible all free, free parking near the fort. It is super cold and windy since the fort is open to the elements. The access to the upper levels is difficult there is a steep ramp with no rails or almost vertical metal steps with handrails but it is so worth seeing. Truly a hidden ge read more

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Great place to get away from the crowds up top. This is a fun stop and very informative, while also a little interactive. Views are also great and you get several different perspectives of the Golden Gate Bridge. read more

I know it's a little silly, but this year I decided I would show my dog all the best views of San Francisco. That includes - Fort Point! It's located right by the Golden Gate Bridge and only about a 35-40 min walk from Palace of Fine Arts. I'd recommend walking there as you'd be walking right by Crissy Fields Beach which is a big vibe! If you choose to drive there, parking should not be a problem. There are lots of parking spots right in front of Fort Point! I've gone on weekdays and weekends and have not run into any issues. You can also take a bus there from other neighborhoods in the city as there's a stop about 15 min or so walking distance from Fort Point. Since my first time visiting in 2018 vs now in 2024, they've added a lot of things making visiting Fort Point a slightly more educational experience ! A projector w/ visual and audio clips, prop settings, etc. read more

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When I learned of the dates I would be in the area, I looked up the Black Gold exhibit to support Detroit artist, Tiffany Massey. read more

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Nestled under the Golden Gate Bridge, although the Fort was first this is a cool historic site that is open on weekends. There are amazing views of the city on a clear day and the bridge of course! You can learn a lot of history in a well crafted exhibit and space. Great for some out of towners to visit if you have some time to kill and want to show them something more interesting than the crowded fisherman wharf area. Take a stroll to nearby Crissy Field, the presidio, or tunnel top park, or even as far as the marina neighborhood for lunch and circle back for a truly enjoyable day in the Golden gate national recreation area. read more

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Fort Point is a great place to stop if you are in the city and have some time. I come here a few times a year at least because its one of a few places where I have always been able to find parking that's so close to the water and to the Golden Gate Bridge. The building never seems to be open when I am visiting but one of these times I hope to check out the inside as well. It has amazing views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Lots of people like to run/jog here and walk their dogs but be careful of the wind! I can't tell you how many times sand has blown directly into my eyes at the end because the wind is whipping so hard between the building and the bridge. It's great for photos and there is a bench if you just want to sit and enjoy watching the waves and the parasailers. I would also recommend Chrissy Field if you are already in the area. read more

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If you're in San Francisco this should be a must see destination.. the views are spectacular even on a foggy day . (Just bring a warm jacket because it gets pretty windy and cold .) There's lots of parking , different little trails and view points. Or drive to the bottom and check out the art installation they currently have set up in the old military building. Either way I don't think you'll be disappointed. read more

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Wow!! How did I not know this place existed!!!?? I highly recommend visiting the Fort!!! Best part is that it is FREE!!! There is free parking too!! You are legitimately under the Golden Gate Bridge!!! Once you are inside there is an open area and you are literally in the Fort. There are four levels to the Fort. The first level are exhibits, floors two and three there are windows throughout the Fort with different view points of The Bay. The top floor is open area where it can be very windy. Come prepared with your beanie and long sleeves. read more

I just can't believe that I have never visited at Fort Point by the San Francisco Bay! This is a true gem! You must find your way here to explore! Fort Point has stood guard at the Golden Gate for over 150 years! The Fort has been called "the pride of the Pacific," "the Gibraltar of the West Coast," and "one of the most perfect models of masonry in America." When construction began during the height of the California Gold Rush, Fort Point was planned as the most formidable deterrence America could offer to a naval attack on California. Although its guns never fired a shot in anger, the "Fort at Fort Point" as it was originally named has witnessed Civil War, obsolescence, earthquake, bridge construction, reuse for World War II, and preservation as a National Historic Site. Natural treasure! Must visit! You will be so happy to stop by! Whoh! read more

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I visited again a year later ..very magnificent ..different views of the bridge ..Eiffel tower ..it was Bastille day ..but its not France ...very amazing place SF CA ..the other fort is fort McHenry in Baltimore ..I already was at high school back then ..nice weather in California .. read more

Make sure and layer up as it can be quite cold near the water here, especially in the morning. Entrance to the fort was free, but the quality of the exhibits were surprisingly well done. We were there a little under 2 hours, but you could easily make it through in an hour or less if you were in a hurry. Be sure to head to the top floor for a great view on a clear day! read more

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Located just underneath the Golden Gate Bridge. This is great historical site. There are different rooms you can go to watch movies or video clips. Tour different levels. Make sure you go all the way to the top to see a fantastic view. I never heard of this place before, I just happened to be walking across the golden gate bridge and looked down and saw it. I had fun trying to figure how to walk down to it. Great trails on the way down. I look forward to going back and spending more time there. read more

Fort Point - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - San Francisco, California

I have been here twice and well worth the visit. Anytime you get a chance to be under the Golden Gate Bridge is a must. The exhibits are very cool with a lot of history. To take it all in give yourself about an hour and a half. Parking can be difficult on the weekends but it seemed people were going in and out frequently. Gift shop has a lot of good stuff to buy. Be sure the wear something warm, no matter what time of year this venue is always cold and extremely windy. There is a bathroom outside the building but not in great shape. read more

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Such a cool place to explore plus it's free! Lots of history here and relics from the past. Amazing views too read more

Fort Point - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Nice Fort Point National Park. Very windy day! I have been here a few times and it has always been windy. Be sure to wear a jacket or wind breaker. Great historic park and you can see the view of Golden Gate Bridge up and close at the top. read more

Wow...what an awesome spot with amazing picturesque views. This location will take you down to the water and when the sky is clear, provides amazing views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz. This location has a great gift shop and allows you to take a tour of Fort Point. You can take stairs to the top which leads to a Cafe and the entrance of the bridge if you were looking to walk it. A good amount of free parking is available. We arrived at 10am and unfortunately the fog had not completely lifted. We saw quite a few people with chairs and some having picnics. We later realized that they were waiting for the fog to lift. By 1130am, the tip of the bridge was still covered with fog. After doing some research, we realized that late afternoon would have been a better time to visit. A great location for a run/walk and to go fishing. This is a must stop when visiting San Francisco. read more

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In my opinion this is one of the best spots to take a picture of the Golden Gate Bridge there is. I walked over from the Walt Disney Museum Gift Shop up the trail over to this point. The walk is on the steeper end and the space was quite busy - you do definitely need to wait for your moment to snap a shot. That being said, if you walk over to the Battery, plan to walk back over to this side when you leave as there is no easy outlet through Baker Beach. I also wouldn't take the Earthworks tunnel if you have the option, as it's incredibly dark and feels creepy. All in all, I would definitely walk up to see this view (especially on a clear day) as it's 100% worth the hike. read more

Fort Point - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - San Francisco, California

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When I first saw this place, I thought it was an abandoned warehouse. There was a sign outside that people could easily miss but nothing in big letters on the building that said this was a historical site. This might be a good thing as there weren't a lot of people inside. Admission was free and anybody could walk in. Here's a quick history lesson about Fort Point. It was built between 1853 and 1861. Its purpose was to protect the San Francisco Bay during the Civil War from any outside attacks. At its peak, 102 cannons were mounted and as many as 500 men were garrisoned here. Thankfully no attacks ever took place. In 1970, Fort Point became a National Historic Site. Each floor had different exhibits that described the history and life at Fort Point. Standing in the middle of the courtyard gave me a sense of how big this place was. I thought it was cool to be able to see a few of the cannons in person. My favorite part was going to the rooftop and seeing the Golden Gate Bridge up close as a whole. It made the view of the bridge look even more scenic and iconic. Make sure you bring a jacket because it was windy up here. There were no elevators so you would need to take the stairs and walk to each floor. No restrooms inside either but they were a short walk outside. Parking may be limited given that the Fort Point area attracts a lot of people trying to get a good view of the Golden Gate Bridge. read more

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What a great place to visit in San Francisco! We walked here from the golden gate bridge. It was a nice scenic walk. Free to visit. It's a nice history lesson with several nice exhibits throughout the fort. read more

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Fort Point is a very interesting historical site that's located at the base of the Golden Gate Bridge at the San Francisco end. It was built in the lead up to the Civil War (completed in 1861), but was never engaged in battle. It's very interested to explore the fort and pretty much everything is open. There's multiple levels of the fort that you can explore and many interesting displays that contain the history of the fort. The views of the Golden Gate bridge are worth the visit too as you get an underside view of the bridge when you're in the fort and you get an oblique view of the bridge from the parking lot (which was my favorite). It's a great place to visit and learn more about the history of San Francisco! read more

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During the summer of 2022, my family and I did a road trip from Los Angeles to Key West Florida. At the halfway point of our cross country round-trip drive, we took the 70 mile boat ride out to the dry Tortugas, to see Fort Jefferson. Fort Point was reminiscent of that place: similar brickwork, spiral staircases, multi leveled, fort, angled openings for cannons and guns... But of course there was the 50° temperature difference! Admission is free, and to be perfectly honest, there's not a whole lot to see here, other than the view. The underside of the Golden Gate, that casts a shadow across the fort for the better part of the day is worth the trip. A very nice view of Baker Beach from the top level is awesome, too. This was my turnaround point on a 13 mile walk through town a couple of weeks ago, in February 2023. Driving in San Francisco sucks, and parking is worse. Best bet is to walk or bike. And this is a great destination or pitstop on your journey. read more

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The Fort Point is right beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, and it's known for its vantage point overlooking the spectacular bridge. It defended the San Francisco Bay following the Gold Rush through WWII. The arched casemates display the art of third system brick masonry and interacts harmonically with the most famous landmark in SF. It's very windy on the roof, so be prepared to wear warm jacket, also the weather changes so frequently, where it could go from crystal clear to super fog in few minutes. I would suggest coming early afternoon during the day to enjoy the most beautiful view. read more

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Surprisingly fantastic experience with a ton of historic significance. They do a great job of telling you the history, with some fun displays. The real great thing is being able to explore all the levels, the barracks and also the top level with great views of the bay and golden gate bridge too. It also has a good sized parking lot which is a big plus. Had a great time to spend 45 minutes or so. read more

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I had an AWESOME time here and the best part is that it's FREE Free to park Free to enter the museum Free to enjoy the awesome views of the bay I'm so happy I got to visit Fort Point and experience the museum. The museum itself is very well organized and put together. The visuals are great and learning all the history literally feeds my soul and makes me appreciate living in this area even more Knowledge is power #Buffalo Soldiers There is a small gift shop that has souvenirs I got to see views of the Golden Gate Bridge that you will ONLY SEE WHILE VISITING HERE That was amazing I definitely recommend coming here read more

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A must visit! While paying a visit, please please respect, help protect and preserve and appreciate this gem read more

Magnificent Views. Typically Windy & Cold. Short Walk or Run from Crissy Field & Golden Gate Bridge. Free to Visit. Free Parking Weekdays, Paid on Weekends. Drinks & Snacks Available at Warming Hut Park Store. See Below for More Info: Magnificent Views: Fort Point is one of the few places in San Francisco that never fails to wow me. The views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco skyline are truly magnificent. There are so many photo opportunities from the hopper hands with the bridge directly behind you to the rocks and water capturing the city. Typically WIndy & Cold: Regardless of the time of the year, mornings and nights at Fort Point tend to typically be windy and cold. While runners like myself are okay with tights and a long sleeve, I would recommend dressing as warm as possible, so you could truly enjoy Fort Point rather than freeze. Short Walk or Run from Crissy Field & Golden Gate Bridge: There are a few ways to get here. If you are on foot, then you are either doing a short walk from Crissy Field or coming down the set of stairs from the Golden Gate Bridge. The latter is more challenging and can leave you feeling winded, so choose accordingly. Free to Visit: As a San Francisco native, do yourself a favor and skip the crowds at the Golden Gate Bridge Viewpoint and go here instead. Best of all, Fort Point is free to visit. :) Free Parking Weekdays, Paid on Weekends: There are several parking options in the area. Parallel parking is available on Mason Street and then are parking lots at Fort Point, near the Warming Hut, and at Crissy Field. Parking is free on weekdays and paid on weekends. Drinks & Snacks Available at Warming Hut Park Store: Great news if you are feeling hundry or thirsty. The Warming Hut Park Store,, located a short walk from Fort Point, sells drinks, snacks, and souvenirs. read more

Fort Point - Golden Gate Bridge on Clear Day :) - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - San Francisco, California

it was my first time in SF and this place is one of the few places that I've visited. It's really beautiful and informative exhibits. Special thanks to our guide, he is an amazing person! read more

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The NPS candlelight lantern tour kicked off yesterday. We purchased our tickets on the NPS website. The tour is led by a NPS ranger. Ranger Mike used a wireless microphone as there were over 20+ of us. Masks are still mandatory. It's 90 minutes and starts at 6:30pm. We parked in the parking lot. Plenty of spaces. Hubby & I shared a lantern but in hindsight I should have had my own as his interests are more in depth than mine. The candlelight lantern doesn't give off much light. Some folks took out their smart phones at certain times using the flashlight feature. But mostly everyone stayed with the lanterns as the intent is to put yourselves to the period where the soldiers in the garrison only had the use of kerosene and coal. We explored all four levels starting ground level and ending up on the roof. Spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the bay. Factoid - Ranger Mike told us Joseph Strauss the Golden Gate Bridge chief engineer made sure Fort Point was not blocked when the bridge was constructed. If you look up at the Golden Gate Bridge above the Fort you can see the arch. It's somewhat eerie with only candlelight lanterns but we all managed. Because we hold the senior national park pass, we were issued 50% refund minus the ticket surcharge. That worked for us. Hubby also got his passbook stamped. Thanks to NPS for the experience. read more

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This is the South Anchor of the Golden Gate Bridge. The oldest Fort West of the Mississippi. Pure History. The San Francisco Bay was a military bonanza for the US after the war between the US and Mexico. Fort Point part of the network with Alcatraz and the Black Point Battery. Gun Triangulation. Pretty Cool. And now it guard the Most Awesome Bridge Ever. read more

Fort Point - Fort Point - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - San Francisco, California

This is the most amazing place to see the Golden Gate Bridge and take the most perfect photos. It is so beautiful, a pier on a small beach, not too crowded, and you can see seals eating fish in the water right there...it is the most breathtaking experience. This is now one of my favorite spots ever. My heart felt full from experiencing this place. Bring a sweater, gloves, and a beanie if you come toward sunset. read more

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Want some of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge that exists? Look no further than the historic Fort Point. A real authentic US fort Beatles underneath the southern span of the bridge, Fort Point combines history, scenery, and ocean spray together for an unforgettable adventure. Entering into the fort you can't help but transport yourself back to the 1800s. The fort itself is 3 levels with staircases . On the 2nd level there is a great museum chronicling the history of the fort. Make your way up to the top level for incredible views of the baker beach, the pacific, the bay, and the bridge. 100% recommend checking this spot out if you are in the area. The are open from Thurs-Sun and admission is free to all! read more

Fort Point - View of GG bridge from the top level of Fort Point - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - San Francisco, California

Great spot ! It's my 2nd time to visit here and found a great spot this time. Proper wind, sailing events and good weather. It was perfect timing to visit this point. read more

Fort Point - Whole bridge. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - San Francisco, California

Sometimes it's nice being a tourist in your own town. Take advantage of everything it has to offer and you don't even have to spend a dime. Fort Point is one of those cool, historical and classic places. It's been the backdrop of many movies and TV shows, and the most famous movie is Alfred Hitchcock's Vertigo, where Kim Novak jumps in the bay and was rescued by Jim Stewart. If you don't know these actors, then it's showing my age. Unfortunately, that area has been closed off many years ago for safety reasons. There's a "No Trespassing" sign on the gated fence and violators can be fined $10,000 or punished of up to a year in jail. Not worth it to get that "cool shot" with the Park Rangers around. Fort Point was completed just before the Civil War by the U.S. Army to protect and defend the San Francisco bay. Located on the southern side of the mouth of the bay, it's a masonry seacoast fortification that is four stories high including a built-in towers and an upper water tank that doubles as a lookout tower. The fort cost $2,800,000 to build and originally called "Fort Winfield Scott" but over time, it was called "The Fort at Fort Point" until it was simplified to it's current name. The additional seawall cost another $400,000 to build, which took 9 years to complete. Interestingly enough, the people who built the fort were handsomely paid. For example, skilled laborers were paid $10 in 1860 (equivalent to $313.72 in today's rate) and unskilled laborers were paid $2.50 (equivalent to $78.43 in today's rate). Jesus Christ...and people are complaining and are so against increasing the minimum wage to $15.00. These people need to do the math and it doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that the numbers just don't add up. And there were some Blacksmiths, Carpenters and Masons who were making between $2.50 and $10.00 in 1860. No wonder they could afford to purchase a house and lot with acres and acres of land. Most of the granite used to build its walls came from China and some from nearby quarries. The soil that was dug up to build the foundation was spread out along the coastline, which is now the road that leads to the fort. Thousands of bricks were made on site and hundreds men, mostly 49ers miners were employed and worked alongside U.S. Army Engineers to build the fort. When the fort was completed, U.S. Army Artillerymen stood guard for an attack that never happened and due to other similar forts on the east coast sustaining significant damages against rifled artillery, the troops moved out and the cannons and artillery were either sold for scraps or relocated to the other newer and more fortified batteries built along the California coastline. Though it was never fully abandoned, it was briefly used as a temporary refugee camp after the 1906 earthquake and subsequently used as barracks and storage area by the U.S. Army. When the Golden Gate Bridge was being built, there were plans of demolishing the fort, but the bridge's Chief Engineer redesigned the bridge in order to save the fort. He wanted it preserved as a national monument, historical site and military architecture. Although there were no funds to preserve the fort, it languished for decades until President Nixon signed a bill creating the Fort Point Historical Site. Now the fort is a United States Historical Site administered by the National Park Service and a unit of Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA). There are plenty of Civil War-era artifacts, uniforms and furniture displayed and preserved inside. There are cannons of all shapes and sizes that you examine and touch up close and personal. There's even a powder keg room in the basement level, though it's only contains empty barrels now. You can explore the corridors, the hallways and stairwells. There's a gift shop inside and a theatre room playing documentaries about the bridge and fort on a loop. Wander alone in a dark and cold hallway and you might feel or see the presence of a spirit. You don't have to take my word for it, but the place just reeks of old souls wandering the hallways and corridors. But, it's a cool place to explore and you can easily spend a couple of hours here, especially if you are a military historical buff, love architectures or just a regular person who enjoys such a place in general. And for the professional photographers and wannabe photographers, this is another great spot with plenty of views and angles of the bridge and the bay. Post it on Instagram and on your stories and it'll guarantee some likes. #YelpChallenge2020 review No. 58 read more

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I am always happy to visit Fort Point, with the view of the Golden Gate Bridge, the sound and the smell of the water crashing onto the rocks, and the warmth of the sun offset by the exhilaration of the wind. I recommend it highly to anyone who has not been there, to take a look. I've run at least a dozen half marathons or 10k races that looped around there, and if I am ever at Crissy Field for another reason I stop by Fort Point. I write to mention three aspects of it. The first is a general note to any tourist. Always have a light jacket and a cap/hat in the city. It is not Los Angeles. It is cold in lots of places, including during the summer. The Bay Area also has microclimates. The difference can be as much as 30 degrees from Oakland to the western side of the city. People who are unaware of the climate can be miserable if they are not hardy souls. I feel a duty to warn anyone coming. The second is Fort Point has been in movies. The most famous example is Vertigo. If you do not know that Hitchcock classic, with Jimmy Stewart and Kim Novak, and you care about cinema at all, this title is in the category of "you owe it to yourself" to check it out. You can visit multiple filming locations (I believe people who own one of the private residences are unenthusiastic about gawkers, understandably). The third is to go inside. It's worth it. I confess I don't know how it works; look that up on their official website. I was there once for a theatrical production, by a local company called We Players. They do site specific works. They had Macbeth. It was a perfect setting. That was one of the best experiences I have ever had with Shakespeare. You wandered through the ruins. read more