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Fort Point National Historic Site: Tips to Visit this Free Attraction
Written by: Jill Loeffler • Published: Nov 21, 2011 • Modified: Nov 24, 2024
Fort Point National Historic Site is a fun place to visit for those interested in the rich military history of San Francisco.
This historic gem is the fort underneath the southern end of the Golden Gate Bridge in the Presidio. It is one of several free SF attractions.
A visit to this old army building offers you the chance to learn more about its history with memorabilia and films.
During your visit, you can learn more about this building's place in the history of San Francisco.
I have had the chance to visit many times. It's fun to walk around the courtyard and climb the stairs to the top for gorgeous views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Disclaimer: I receive a small commission from some of the links on this page.
History of the Fort Point National Historic Site
This is a view of where Fort Point sits under the Golden Gate Bridge. This historic attraction is free to visit and is open several days a week.Fort Point was built in 1861 by the US Army. They built it as a way for the Army to protect the San Francisco Bay from unwanted visitors and anyone looking to attack.
This building was used as a fort only until 1900. As weapons became more powerful, the Army thought its structure was too weak.
They feared it would be destroyed under any major attack.
After this, the Army mainly used this building as a barracks. Some soldiers called this place home for many years.
In the early 1930s, the building was almost destroyed. Engineers determined it needed to be demolished to make way for the Golden Gate Bridge.
After a review of the structure itself, it was deemed a high-value historical site and should remain standing.
The Golden Gate Bridge engineers returned to their plans and figured out a way to build around it.
The architecture of the building is unique, which is why there has been so much interest in preserving it over the years.
Finally, in the fall of 1970, it became a national historic site.
Fort Point Today
Today, the building stands tall under the monstrous Golden Gate Bridge.
The parking lot is a great place to see how the engineers worked the bridge around this fantastic building.
It's free to step in and look around.
You enter through an archway that leads to the main courtyard.
In the courtyard, you will find some old cannons that were installed when the fort was originally built.
You are welcome to wander around the Fort Point National Historic Site on your own.
Since your visit is mostly outside, make sure you bring a jacket or rain gear with you on those cool, rainy days.
Fort Point Opening Days and Hours
The Fort Point National Historic Site is open five days a week, from 10 am to 5 pm. They are open from Thursday to Monday.
The site is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.
Things To Do Inside Fort Point
The fort is about four stories high, with a great open area on the top floor.
You can walk in and out of the rooms on all floors.
Ranger Lead Historic Talks
The rangers lead talks at 11:30 am, 1:30 pm, and 2:30 pm every day the fort is open. Each one lasts 15 minutes, and it's a great way to get an overview of this San Francisco attraction before you explore it on your own.
On busier days, they will sometimes add more programs to the schedule so check the program board when you arrive to see what else is planned for the day of your visit.
These talks start near the entrance of the building.
These are not tours, but are a quick introduction to the history of the building, which is a great way to start your visit.
This is an excellent option for those visiting Fort Point for the first time.
Museum Exhibits
While the entire building could be considered a museum, certain rooms contain historical items, exhibits, and other pieces of information about the history of this structure.
They have built up their museum over the years, as there are quite a few more exhibits now than when I first visited two decades ago.
All of their exhibits are on the first, second, and third floors.
The last time I was here, some of the rooms were blocked off as they were installing new and temporary exhibits. These temporary exhibits offer a narrative that ties the history of this building to modern times.
Here are a few pictures of some of the museum exhibits at Fort Point National Historical Site from my last visit.
This exhibit talks more about the legacy of Fort Point in San Francisco and its importance in our local military history.
Top Floor of the Fort
One of my favorite places to explore here is the top floor.
There is no easy way to access this section of the building except the climb the steep steps, but I can tell you the view is worth the effort!
Since the fort is right under the Golden Gate Bridge, you can get great close-up photos of the bridge from below.
You can also see Alcatraz Island, downtown San Francisco, and more from the top floor of the building.
One thing to note, though, is that it's often really windy up here. If you plan to take photos, secure your devices as the wind can whip around quite a bit throughout the day.
Fort Point Theater
This is the small theater inside the Fort Point National Historic Site. There are two educational videos you can watch during your visit.Before you leave, step in and watch the free historical movie about the fort. It's a short, 20-or-so-minute film that gives detailed information on this amazing structure.
A second video in the same room gives a historical account of the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Each of the movies plays a few times a day.
The schedule for the films is in the arch when you first enter so that you can plan your trip around the different activities at the fort that day.
Other Military Attractions in San Francisco
Events at Fort Point National Historic Site
The Fort Point National Historic Site also has a few fun events during the year.
Candlelight Tour
Their Candlelight Tour is the most popular. It is at night, in the dark.
A ranger will lead the 90-minute tour, providing each visitor with a lantern. You will get a feel for what it was like to live in the fort, especially at night, back in the day.
It's a cool experience and is fun for anyone who enjoys history.
This tour is on certain Saturday nights in the winter from November through early March. It is by reservation only. It fills up quickly, so make your reservation as soon as possible.
Tickets are available on this website two weeks in advance. The cost is $20 per adult and $12 for youth.
Living History Weekend
Twice a year, Fort Point comes alive with a reenactment of Union soldiers marching to the sounds of Fife and Drums.
Guests are welcome to participate in activities and see what the site looked like during the American Civil War and the 1860s.
This free event that takes place one weekend in February and one weekend in August.
Tips to Visit the Golden Gate Bridge
How to Get to the Fort Point National Historic Site
There are a few options to get to the fort for your visit.
Driving and Parking
Unlike many other San Francisco sites, this one has parking right out front. If you are driving from San Francisco, take Highway 101 North and exit right before the Golden Gate Bridge Toll Plaza.
Do not get on the bridge—you want to exit right before. Turn right at the end of the exit ramp.
Then turn left onto Lincoln Boulevard in the Presidio. Take the first left onto Long Avenue and then Marina Drive. Fort Point is at the end of this road.
After youexit, you should also see signs that will help you find the fort.
On Foot
The other option is to bike or walk down from Crissy Field. There is a beautiful walking and biking path along the water.
It's about a mile from the Crissy Field parking lot.
It's a gorgeous walk and a great way to take some pictures of the Golden Gate Bridge as you walk along the water.
Public Transit
Take the Muni 28 bus and get off at the Bridge Toll Plaza. Then follow trail signs to the fort.
The city also offers a free Presidio Go Shuttle from downtown to this district. This shuttle runs daily and takes about 25 minutes from downtown San Francisco.
Even though it does not stop near the Fort, it's a short hike from the Presidio Transit Center stop.
More San Francisco Attractions You Might Enjoy
Alcatraz History & Visiting Tips: Want to learn more about the history of San Francisco? Read on to discover the facts on the infamous Alcatraz Island -- and the prisoners that called it home.
Golden Gate Bridge: The Golden Gate Bridge is another famous San Francisco attraction. When did it open? Why was it build? How many cars cross it each day? Find the answer to these and more of your questions on this beautiful landmark.
Haight and Ashbury District: Another place that bursts with history is the Haight Ashbury district. It was the home of the 'Summer of Love' in 1967. Uncover the truth about this small but very colorful San Francisco neighborhood.
Comments? Questions? Suggestions?
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It's a great place to interact with me and others who know the area well.
You can ask questions, get advice for your upcoming stay, and then share your photos and advice with others when you return home. It's a great community and the fastest way to get answers to those nagging questions about your visit!
