Travel Tips: Coit Tower, San Francisco

Perched atop Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower stands as a beloved San Francisco landmark, offering not just striking Art Deco architecture but also some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the bay. 

This iconic structure invites you to ascend and witness the sprawling cityscape, from the Golden Gate and Alcatraz to the bustling wharves and beyond. 

Let me guide you in planning your visit to Coit Tower, a perfect vantage point to truly appreciate the beauty and layout of the City by the Bay.
 

Book Your Tickets in Advance: While you can purchase tickets on-site, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends, booking your tickets online in advance is highly recommended. This can save you valuable time and ensure you secure a spot for the elevator ride to the top, as capacity is limited.

Choose the Best Time to Visit

• Morning: Often offers clearer air and fewer crowds, providing excellent visibility for photography.
• Late Afternoon/Sunset: Witnessing the city bathed in golden light or the twinkling city lights as dusk settles is a truly magical experience. However, this is a popular time, so book your tickets accordingly.
• Weekdays: Generally less crowded than weekends.

Allow Sufficient Time: Plan to spend at least 1-2 hours for your visit. This includes time for getting to Telegraph Hill, purchasing or redeeming tickets, waiting for the elevator, enjoying the views from the observation deck, and exploring the murals on the ground floor.

Getting to Telegraph Hill

• Walking: If you're up for a bit of a climb, you can walk up the Filbert Steps or Greenwich Steps, which offer charming views of the neighborhood and gardens along the way. Be prepared for a steep incline.
• Public Transportation: The #39 Coit Tower bus runs from Pier 39 and North Beach directly to the tower. Check the SFMTA website for the latest schedules.
• Driving/Taxi/Rideshare: You can drive or take a taxi/rideshare, but parking on Telegraph Hill is very limited and can be challenging, especially during busy times. Factor in potential delays for parking.

The Elevator Ride: The only way to reach the observation deck at the top is via a small elevator that accommodates a limited number of people. Be prepared for a potential wait, especially during peak hours.

What to See at the Top: Once at the observation deck, take your time to soak in the breathtaking 360-degree views. You'll be able to spot iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Pier 39, the Bay Bridge, Angel Island, and the city's distinctive skyline. Informational signs help identify key points of interest. Photo 3 above illustrates one of the views awaiting you at the summit.

Explore the Murals on the Ground Floor: Before or after heading to the top, don't miss the impressive Depression-era murals painted by local artists on the ground floor. These vibrant artworks depict various aspects of California life in the 1930s and are a significant part of the tower's history and artistic value.

Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes for walking around Telegraph Hill and potentially climbing steps. The observation deck can be breezy, so consider bringing a light jacket.

Bring Binoculars (Optional): While not essential, binoculars can enhance your viewing experience, allowing you to zoom in on distant landmarks and details.

Photography: Coit Tower offers fantastic photographic opportunities. Bring your camera to capture the stunning panoramic views and the unique architecture of the tower itself.

Accessibility: The ground floor with the murals is accessible. However, access to the observation deck is only via the elevator, which has limited capacity and may involve a wait.

Combine with Telegraph Hill Exploration: Take some time to explore the charming neighbourhood of Telegraph Hill, known for its historic houses, lush gardens, and the wild parrots that call it home.

Combine with Nearby Attractions: Coit Tower is located on Telegraph Hill, close to other interesting areas like North Beach (known for its Beat Generation history and Italian heritage) and Pier 39 (with its famous sea lions). Consider combining your visit with exploring these nearby spots.

Restrooms and Facilities: Restrooms are available at the ground level of Coit Tower. There are no facilities at the observation deck.

Last Updated: 1 May '25