Driving through the Robin Williams Tunnel is one of the distinctive moments on the route between San Francisco and Marin County. Set into the steep, wooded slopes of the Waldo Grade, the twin-bore tunnel carries Highway 101 through the hillside just north of the Golden Gate Bridge. Its rainbow-painted portals add a burst of color to the drive, especially when approaching from the San Francisco side, where the road curves through the hills and opens toward views of the bridge, bay, and Marin landscape. Originally built in 1937 as the Waldo Tunnel to create a faster- reliable highway connection through the challenging grade, the first bore was later joined by a second as traffic between San Francisco and the North Bay increased. It was renamed the Robin Williams Tunnel in honor of the late actor and comedian, who had deep ties to Marin County and lived in Tiburon for many years. The drive itself is brief, but it feels good : the light changes as you enter, the sound of traffic echoes around the tunnel walls, and the colorful arches signal that you are either arriving in Marin or heading back toward San Francisco. It is a practical piece of the Bay Area infrastructure, and also a cheerful and fitting tribute to Robin Williams--historic, useful, and full of local character. read more

Pulled up to what most people just think is "the tunnel after the Golden Gate Bridge"... but this one actually has a story. The Robin Williams Tunnel (formerly the Waldo Tunnel) is basically the doorway into Marin County and Sausalito. After Robin Williams passed, they renamed it in 2015 because he lived right nearby in Tiburon -- and honestly it feels fitting. The Bay Area has a personality, and somehow this entrance matches it. Northbound is the real experience. You're in traffic, rock walls around you, then suddenly you come out the other side and the whole Marin coastline opens up in front of you. It's one of those moments where everybody in the car goes quiet for a second. Southbound is the opposite -- you exit the tunnel and boom... the Golden Gate Bridge appears like a movie reveal. It's weird reviewing a tunnel, but this one isn't just infrastructure. It's a gateway and kind of a tribute at the same time. Some places you pass through. This one actually feels like you arrived. read more

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It's a "Must See Place" when visiting or leaving the San Francisco Bay Area... I've been through those tunnels multiple times, and recommend that experience as an essential part of anyone's trip to the San Francisco Bay Area... read more

Cool remembrance of an amazing man. Brilliantly funny and a talented actor. I enjoy a reflection every time I pass through his namesake tunnel. I appreciate you. read more

How many of us smile when we go through this tunnel just thinking about all the laughter and Joy Robin Williams brought to us?

I have been through this tunnel thousands of times whether it was for school trips during my childhood to the city, with friends or family. My favorite part of the ride going to/from the city and Marin was going through the Waldo Tunnel. Some of the best memories I have is competing with my friends to see who could hold their breaths the longest. Other times I would simply make a wish. It has been renamed the Robin Williams tunnel in honor of him and where his spirit lives on. This couldn't be a more perfect name for the tunnel as Robin was a Marin and SF resident. I smile every time I see the sign when I drive back to Marin. I may not hold my breath anymore because I'll probably pass out, but this tunnel holds a special place in my heart. read more

Robin Williams Tunnel - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

The rainbow always makes me smile and I love that first glimpse of the city as I drive on southbound 101. I love the fact that it was renamed in honor of one SF's most beloved. Pro tip: CHP hangs out by the southbound exit, so watch your speed! read more

Robin Williams Tunnel - Fog sweet fog - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

The Robin Williams Rainbow Tunnel in Sausalito Once in a while we drive through the Robin Williams Tunnel when going to/from Marin and San Francisco. For the longest time the tunnel was called the Waldo Tunnel because it cuts through the Waldo Grade but in 2015 the State renamed the rainbow tunnel the Robin Williams Tunnel in memory of the beloved late actor, comedian and longtime Bay Area (Sausalito) resident. There is also a sign to mark the passageway. The iconic rainbow arches was a nice tribute as he was famous for wearing rainbow suspenders as Mork from the TV show "Mork and Mindy." Now fans have a real-life memory lane. The tunnel is located in Marin County, on the U.S. 101 freeway just north of the Golden Gate Bridge and only the northbound side will you see the rainbows painted on. I personally think it should be painted on both sides of the tunnel. I don't think there's a place for foot traffic or pedestrians to walk through the tunnel as we just zip through it when we drive through. The photos I captured were from our car as a passenger. There are four lanes on each passageway. If driving from the south you won't be able to get a glimpse of San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge immediately because of the hills surrounding the tunnel but as soon as you exit it you will get your first view of the City. Yay! San Francisco! The colors on the arches are starting to fade again and needs a new paint job so that once again we can enjoy the double rainbow on the Robin Williams Tunnel. This is my official tunnel tribute... remember Robin. Drive safe California! Review #0980 read more

Robin Williams Tunnel - 03.10.18 Rainbow Tunnel tribute to Robin Williams - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

Oh the fun of reviewing a tunnel...I mean why not?!? If you are from the bay area, this tunnel is iconic, whether it be the rainbow colors at times or the name change that took place a few years back. Obviously such a tunnel is deserving of a name like Robin Williams and the legacy he left behind! I think for many other visitors to the bay area, they are unsure of its significance, but again for almost everyone else who is a "local", it is quite special! Well that was fun, short, and sweet! read more

Just north of the Golden Gate Bridge as you pass by Vista Point on California Route 1 to US 101. With its rainbow paint around the arch, this tunnel goes back a few years - opening in 1940. It's very helpful and I'm sure the drive it replaced around the Presidio was a major hassle. The tunnel is 1300 feet long and no additional toll is required to use it. I was not expecting the tunnel to be so remarkable, or I'd have had my camera ready. [Reposting because I apparently through this was the MacArthur tunnel.] [Review 12490 overall, 2280 of 2019.] read more

Baby's second Yelp! I tossed my 11 year-old the iPhone and asked him to check in to the Robin Williams Tunnel heading to the Golden Gate Bridge and into the city. He's an official Yelper now. In either direction crossing the Golden Gate Bridge, the Robin Williams Tunnel greets you with its sunny rainbow salutation. It's a bittersweet reminder of the funny and generous man who lived here most of his life and made movies featuring the city he loved. read more

This tunnel seriously puts a smile on my face each time I drive through it. The rainbow in the beginning does add to the personality Robin Williams had. Sure it's just a tunnel, but it's named after one of the city's greatest and for that I am thankful and admire The City for doing a great deed. read more

Robin Williams Tunnel - I am a big fan of Robin Williams! Long live Mrs. Doubtfire!! - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

You must past through this structure either coming or going on the 101, from south that brightly colored passageway leading towards all things Northern California, and from the north that final rainbow hurdle to the Golden Gate Bridge. The Waldo grade or Rainbow tunnel if you will, forever changed by tragedy now the Robin Williams tunnel. The first bore opened in 1937 allowed for two lanes of traffic each direction, and the second bore completed in 1954 allowing four lanes each way, as it currently stands today. Most of us do not know this passageway any other way. Often shrouded in the fog, along with the rush of the traffic and terrain. You usually drive through it, unaware and it's just the passing landscape. But on clear days, this tunnel gives way to one of the most spectacular views of the GGB, the bay and the city. 4 Stars ~ another iconic landmark of nor-cal. 00514 read more

Robin Williams Tunnel - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

HELLO!!! Why review a tunnel? Why not? Thanks to Yelp, one can Yelp about anything! It's officially the Robin Williams tunnel...how fitting! Look for the sign on each side of the tunnel, but always keep both hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. Don't try to snap a picture of the sign, safety first people. My kid took this great photo as I drove through the tunnel on our way to Little League. This tunnel makes me so HAPPY every time I go through it. I almost forget about the traffic and double-decker buses on busy weekends/holidays/commute hour. There's light at the end of the tunnel. Here are some famous quotes from Robin Wiliams (I like the first & last one): You're only given a little spark of madness. You mustn't lose it. No matter what people tell you, words and ideas can change the world. Never pick a fight with an ugly person, they've got nothing to lose. Comedy is acting out optimism. Reality is just a crutch for people who can't cope with drugs. If women ran the world we wouldn't have wars, just intense negotiations every 28 days. Spring is nature's way of saying, 'Let's party!' Why do they call it rush hour when nothing moves? read more

Robin Williams Tunnel - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

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O captain, my captain. The famous tunnel with its signature rainbow arches connecting the Golden Gate Bridge to greater Marin County has officially become the Robin Williams tunnel. The tunnel was unofficially known as the Waldo Tunnel before this change. State lawmakers approved a resolution last year to change the tunnel's name to honor the late actor and comedian, who grew up and lived in the San Francisco Bay Area. The two signs--one for each side of the tunnel--cost $3,000. Private donations paid for the cost. read more

Robin Williams Tunnel - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

Waldo Tunnel is named after Waldo Point along Richardson Bay and/or Waldo Street in Sausalito. But where's Waldo? That would be William Waldo, who ran unsuccessfully as a Whig candidate for governor of California in 1853. The first bore of the tunnel was completed in 1937 and the second in 1954. The archways at the ends of the bores were painted in rainbows by a Caltrans employee, Robert Halligan, and hence it's other namesake. The northbound Rainbow Tunnel is of course the entry way to Marin and a nice view of Sausalito when you come out. Better yet, viewing the City for the first time coming out of the southbound Tunnel southbound is a must see for my out-of-town guests. And like "crimson and clover", it's a "money shot" that I'll go out of my way to see myself "over and over". read more

Always love driving through this tunnel in either direction, but especially on the way coming into the city because that means home!! read more

Robin Williams Tunnel - Lots of traffic, but look at that bridge! - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

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To quote Billy Crystal, "Simply Mah Veh Lous!" The view of the Golden Gate Bridge driving to San Francisco from Marin is stunning. I'm a local and the view is still breathtaking everytime. I can only imagine what it feels like if you're an out-of-towner visiting for the first time. I could only guess that It would feel like you're in a movie and the only thing missing is a score from an orchestra. Hey, pop in your fave soundtrack in your iPod and feel the full effect. Hey look, a rainbow... Yup...you're definitely in San Francisco now. read more

ONLY IN NORTHERN CALIFORNIA Emerging SOUTHBOUND from the Rainbow Tunnel is a glorious view of the Golden Gate Bridge. Emerging NORTHBOUND from the Rainbow Tunnel you are on top of the hills overlooking Sausalito. VIEWS TO TAKE YOUR BREATH AWAY! JUST STAY ON THE ROAD! THERE IS NO PLACE TO STOP HERE AND ENJOY THE VIEW! NO PLACE TO STOP AND CHECK IF THE RAINBOW IS PAINT OR TILES? PAINT OR TILES YOU SAY????? . . . . . AND STILL THE LINGERING QUESTIONS: Did CALTRANS ever put up the COLORED TILES that so many folks paid for? Or are the Rainbows on Waldo Tunnel still painted on? Who knows? Who can tell us? read more

Somewhat emotional traveling through this tunnel. We were headed south into the city and noticed the plaque proclaiming this to be "Robin Williams Tunnel". I had expected the rainbow to be painted on the entrance, as I had seen in pictures, but found this to be only on the entrance heading north. Pretty cool. read more

Pay attention when you drive through this tunnel because the views on both ends are amazing! On the Sausalito side, look down the hill for a scene that a some children's book illustrator, somewhere, is striving to generate for a book about a quaint distant land. On the bridge side, look across the Bay for a breathtaking view of the San Francisco skyline. And while you are inside the tunnel, hold your breath and make a wish! read more

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Awesome tunnel renamed after the late Robin Williams. When you are southbound and exit the tunnel, the views of the bay and the Golden Gate bridge are awesome! read more

Is this the Robin Williams tunnel yet or what? Everyone's ready. We all found Waldo. Hurry up and change the name already. Give Mork his rainbow suspenders. Other than that note, two thoughts cross my mind every time I drive through here: 1. Why the f*ck is everyone honking? 2. This is basically an exact replica of the tunnel from that one season of The Walking Dead that got annoying because of everything Beth ever said or did, but was a little more tolerable because Carol is a badass and won't take sh*t from anyone... no matter if you're an 8-year-old or not. Nanu Nanu, for you R-Dubs. read more

I almost gave the Waldo Tunnel(s) 4 1/2 Stars, then it occurred these are my favorite and most traveled tunnels. Really, the consideration for 5 stars was a little strained because of how DIRTY the insides of the tunnels have become. I don't think either have ever been steam cleaned or pressure washed, ever. I remember my dad driving us through those tunnels in the 1960's and they seemed clean and bright . . . magical even. I bet that no one can see the northbound tunnel is completely lined with what were once beautiful yellow porcelain tiles. They are covered in soot and pollution now. If I ever become a billionaire (or something like that) I would like to donate a super cleaning and restoration to have both Waldo Tunnels made magic again. PS---So happy these have been renamed Robin Williams Tunnels---now there really is a light at the end of the tunnel. Review 0080 read more

What's so damn special about a tunnel, let alone this one? Well, for starters, it's long been the "Rainbow Tunnel" that connects Marin County to the glorious Golden Gate Bridge. Once you pass through it, you'll be rewarded with a spectacular view of the Bay and that unmistakable, world-renowned orange/red landmark. And if you're traveling north on the 101, you'll be rewarded with sunshine on the other side of the tunnel. It's almost as if the clouds part/the fog disappears as if to welcome you to beautiful Marin. You can practically hear a choir of angels singing in the background. Ok, maybe that's a bit dramatic... but you get my point. To me, this tunnel reminds me that I'm home (where I grew up, and where I currently reside). They recently renamed the "Rainbow Tunnel" after local celeb/longtime Bay Area native/resident, Robin Williams. I think it's one of the best things to happen in a long while. Personally, I think Robin is as much of a beloved cultural and Bay Area institution as the Golden Gate Bridge. He has entertained millions of people all over the world with via stand-up comedy, his films, and TV. I, like most people, first discovered him on Mork & Mindy in the early 80s. He was a comedy firecracker. No one had ever seen anything quite like him before. You could tell right away that he would become a star. I think it's rather fitting that the tunnel has taken his name especially since he wore rainbow suspenders on the show. Not quite sure if that was an intentional decision or not. In any case, the world is a much sadder place without Robin in it. His presence and comedy is certainly missed. But every time I drive through the tunnel, I can't help but smile when I think of this local genius' legacy. read more

This tunnel always brings me back to my childhood, there was only a few years old and just had moved to the area. I love that they renamed it the Robin Williams Tunnel. It's a very awesome experience to drive through it and then see the amazing Golden Gate bridge right after. read more

Every other Saturday, I drag my ass out of bed at 5am and head up to Napa for a 10-hour shift. Coming home at the end of the day, I inevitably hit traffic in two places: where hwy 121 hits a stop sign and makes a sharp left, and B&T Golden Gate Bridge traffic. My commute usually takes a little over an hour each way (totally worth living in the city and working that job), but Saturday evening, that commute can easily double. Traffic starts around the Sausalito exit, and 45 agonizing minutes later, when I get to the Waldo Tunnel, what do I hear? THE GODDAMN HONKS After a fucking 10-hour shift, after waking up at the ass crack of dawn on a Saturday, a commute that takes forever, those honks make me want to scream in my car (which I do). Because I don't want to flip everyone off from my open window, here is a BIG MIDDLE FINGER to all the Marin Bridge & Tunnel coming into the city every other Saturday, and a DOUBLE FLIP OFF to the Waldo Tunnel honkers. Fastrak is your friend, fuckfaces, your horn is not. (yes, I realize this review is a blog rant about other drivers, but seriously, the Waldo Tunnel embodies everything that is wrong with a weekend evening commute back into the city) read more

Hey - it's a tunnel... so when in Rome, it comes as no surprise that folks will blast on their horn at full max to get a giggle out of the co-captains riding shotgun in their whip. Personally, I find the act to be amateurish and annoying as a seasoned driver, but I suppose I remember my first tunnel honking experience and found it to be humorous at the time, so who am I to be a cranky curmudgeon? With that being said, the Rainbow that greets you at the face of the expanse is a nice reminder of the joy of living in a place like San Francisco, and to debunk the old "size of the boat" analogy, it's nice that this falls more on the "motion of the ocean" side of things, as it's not the longest tunnel I've ever driven through. If it were, you'd have jackasses laying on their horns for upwards of 30 straight seconds, which could incite a riot. I can live with loud noises for the 10 seconds while breaking the seal of Marin County, though... so there ya go. One bit of warning: clearly, it's dangerous to be using the Yelp app to check in while driving though, so exercise caution or make sure you're the passenger when sharing your whereabouts with the world, capiche? read more

I don't know what's more ridiculous, the fact that some idiot chose to flag my original review of the Waldo Tunnel, or the fact that Yelp HQ wastes its time removing heartfelt reviews of things like tunnels because said reviews supposedly "lack . . . a firsthand customer experience." Really, Yelp? Because reviews like "Best ribs eva ;)" really prove that a person has been somewhere, I guess. Are you afraid that the owners of the tunnel (Caltrans) are trying artificially to raise their star level so as to hurt the business of other owners of tunnels? I didn't realize the public-tunnel business was so cutthroat these days. So here, Yelp: I've driven through the tunnels many times, in both directions. They seem longer when you're driving north, but I don't know why. Below is my original review. Jerks. There are some things that I don't need to describe. RIP, Robin Williams. read more

going thru the Waldo Tunnel towards sausalito is experiencing the quiet before the storm. a quiet ride in a brightly lit tunnel ends abruptly onto a winding, narrow, curving, and downhill. road. constant braking is a must to avoid a ticket and crossing into other lines.. very dangerous on a dizzling/thunderstorming day. be prepared! read more

I love this tunnel....just a little ways further and it's butterfly time! Love the rainbow painting on the south side! Traffic is usually quite manageable and drivers don't typically forget how to drive just because they're in a tunnel! read more

Robin Williams Tunnel - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

This tunnel alone receives the 5 stars for being named after the late Robin Williams. Growing up in the Bay I always loved going through this tunnel as it transports you from suburbia/city life to a portal the promises nature, woods and adventure. As a grown up it leads to the land of wine and honey! Could it be luck or maybe my brain is already programmed to avoid Bay Area traffic but I have had the luck of not dealing with traffic going northbound...southbound is a whole other story. Overall three things make this tunnel worth crossing and reviewing. 1- it has a beautiful rainbow rim as you enter the tunnel in both directions. 2- it's name alone! 3- it perfect for making wishes, remember to hold your breath as you drive through the tunnel (insert wink) Just don't do this if there is traffic... read more

When I was little I knew we were going somewhere cool if we had to go through the "Rainbow Tunnels". Many a childhood camping trip started in just that way and even still, every time I have to pass through them I feel like I'm really going somewhere. This review was brought to you by a heaping dose of nostalgia. read more

I am writing a review for a tunnel. Okay this is weird, but now that we cleared the air.... I love this tunnel! I love the rainbow! I love the view coming out the tunnel and the instant feeling of being in civilization! I love all the wishes it gives me! (make sure to hold your breath so the wish fairy knows to come down and grant you wishes....) read more

This tunnel hold such a great place in my childhood memories. I knew that if we were going through the tunnel we were going to have fun. The other side of the tunnel meant visiting friends, or even better yet, hanging out with my dad at work. This is the only tunnel that I'll routinely still hold my breath when going through! I mean, at some point we grow up and get rid of our childish ways, but no sir, not this one. I refuse to go through the tunnel without it. On top of all that, as everyone else has said, it has amazing views on either side. I particularly like going in one side nice and sunny and emerging on the other enveloped in fog. Just goes to show our micro climates... read more

Writing a review of a tunnel, hmmm.... I wonder if I gave only one star people would be on Yelp planning their road trip and going: "This tunnel only got one star, we should choose another route." The only way I would give 5 stars to a tunnel is if there were hot women in bikinis standing by the entrances waiving at me. Now, when you travel through this thing and you see a light at the end of the tunnel, it is not an oncoming train, but rather spectacular views. Going to the City you will see Frisco, the Bay, Alcatraz, and of course The Golden Gate Bridge. On the Marin side it feels like I'm on the French or Italian Riviera when I look down at Sausalito and Belvedere. BTW, why do a lot of drivers feel compelled to honk their horns in the tunnel? Is it like a safety check before going into the City, to make sure it works? read more

Ahh the rainbow tunnel! Going from the north to the south through this tunnel is an amazing sight! Opens up the view of San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge. Such a gorgeous site! Going south to north is a little more difficult because you want to keep turning your head around to take in the view before going through the tunnel! But overall, excellent views!! read more

If anyone is capable of PM'ing me and telling me when this was done? I am pretty sure this has been a big part of my life... I remember this from when I was about four or five. It is vague, but I remember these wonderful rainbows signifying that we were close to home. Now I work by the tunnel, and take it to and from work to lunch almost everyday. Here's my secret... I don't think it is necessarily quicker to take the freeway from Fort Baker rather than Bridgeway... but seriously... I take it to see the rainbows on the way back. I love it. read more

The wait for the tunnel was aprox 5 minutes long. It's only one way and was worth the drive. I can't imagine going here on a stormy day. I think I would be too scared to consider driving late at night. I didn't get to see the rainbow but was excited going through the tunnel. read more

This is probably my favorite tunnel in the whole world. Anything with a rainbow on it is a plus, but this tunnel is more than just a plus. It's an experience. It's a short ride through a gay themed tunnel. Think about that. Think about it again. Pure Fucking Magic. read more