This place is amazing at night, it can be a bit creepy passing through the old abandoned town but it's worth it once you get to the top read more

Battery Spencer - Golden Gate Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

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BEST view of the Golden Gate Bridge. It looks so close you could almost reach out and touch it. Also, because you're actually higher than the bridge, you have a clear view of the cars and people crossing it. This also has amazing views of the bay leading out to the ocean. Tip: Parking is kind of crazy. On weekends it's almost impossible to find a free spot right up near the overlook. Instead, park in the lot at the bottom of the hill. There are many spots and it's completely free. There's a walking path from the lot up to the overlook. You can get all the way up in ten minutes is you walk quickly, or twenty if you stroll. If you're trying to get there for a particular time (eg: sunset) plan lots of extra time for parking. Bonus Tip: The GGB charges a toll only heading back into the city. You can cross free from San Francisco up to Battery Spencer. read more

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The greatest view of the city bar none! I recently took my girlfriend to San Francisco and I had always wanted to take her to Battery Spencer. Every time we have tried to get there, it was either fogged in, jammed packed with sightseers, or closed due to Covid-19. Luckily this time we were able to go. It was well worth it. The view of the Golden Gate Bridge and the city is spectacular!! It does get busy especially on weekends and holidays so be prepared to wait awhile to fine parking. It is definitely a must when you visit San Francisco!! Oh I forgot.. the best month to visit the city with the best weather is October! Not as foggy! read more

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Great spot to grab an iconic picture of the Golden Gate Bridge for yourself. It's a very mild hike. It is unpacked so bring appropriate shoes. Also if you're hiking at night, bring a flashlight, the terrain is uneven in some locations. read more

Battery Spencer - Golden Gate Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

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GREAT VIEW OF THE GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE. Amazing views of the Bay Area! Lots of great views to take pictures with friends and family! There is parking, as you drive closer. There is also a bathroom to use, suggest brining sanitizer! read more

My first time visiting the San Francisco area and of course the Golden State bridge was a priority of mine. We pulled right over after crossing the bridge (very easy access) to the trail area. This particular day the upper level of the parking was closed and the small lot below was packed with cars. Its like God said Natasha you've never been here enjoy... and a spot opens right up when we came in! We took the hiking trail up which isn't too bad of a climb and made our ways to the spectacular views. So pretty and definitely something that should be done! read more

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The wonderful thing about the Golden gate Bridge is that you can view it from every conceivable angle. battery Spencer gives you a view from above the Golden gate Bridge. You must see it if you're in the Bay Area. You'd be surprised how many locals never drive out here. Come see the Marin headlands and stop at battery Spencer. You will be shocked. It doesn't matter what the weather is. Even if it's pea soup fog, you'll see a little bit of Golden gate Bridge sticking out of the top. Bring a camera and take plenty of pictures, but do not bring a drone. This is Golden gate National recreation Area and drones are strictly forbidden. read more

One of the best views in all of San Francisco and they have plenty. read more

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Taking pictures of the Golden Gate bridge was a major priority during our trip. Although we were able to capture the pictures we desired we did not arrive properly prepared. We arrived to Battery Spencer at 7:40 am to beat any crowds. We succeeded as there was only 4 other people there initially. We stayed for a little over an hour and several people came and went. Upon exiting the car at arrival, we quickly realized that we were not properly dressed for the weather and strong winds. It is COLD! Think WINTER! I needed a scarf, pants, furnace, parka, and some sun! Be warned! Dress cute for the weather and not the occasion. We dressed for the occasion. Lol. The pathway from the parking area to the scenery is rock and gravel filled and the trek is much easier if you are wearing closed toe shoes and not sandals. Once you arrive to the top, the view is stunning. The Golden Gate Bridge does not disappoint but the fog can delay the perfect shot and the winds only get stronger. There is a fence and a do not cross sign but we as well as others crossed the rope to get the desired shot. Some even went beyond the fence to take pictures on a flat rock platform. I just advise everyone to take precautious and be safe. Do not put yourself in a dangerous position for some likes. There are also 2 bathroom stalls near the parking area. There are no places to take cover to assist with the handling of the cold. We thoroughly enjoyed the experience and it will make for a beautiful memory! read more

Battery Spencer - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

If you want the best shot of the Golden Gate bridge, this is it. Hands down. Forget taking a picture of the bridge from the S end, which is a common rookie mistake for tourists. Parking here is available along several small spots dotting the highway, but it's a total war zone here. Nowhere near enough spots. The battery itself is pretty neat to look at. The buildings are in surprising good condition for a war relic. Pretty neat to check out on the way up to the viewpoint of the bridge. read more

Battery Spencer - View of Golden Gate Bridge from top of hill~ - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

Power hiked from Lombard street in San Francisco to the summit of Battery Spencer. The way was easy to find on google maps. The way to the top looks much more arduous than it really is, in reality, it's a well maintained steady path to the top. When you finally get there, enjoy the quintessential view of The Golden Gate Bridge. It is even more breathtaking at sunset. Secret tip: pass over the rope, and follow the path down the cliff. Be VERY careful, small but of danger for a big reward. It was exhilarating! read more

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Amazing views. Go early. When I was leaving, the traffic going in was backed up well up the freeway. There was a bit of traffic and a wait when I arrived mid morning. It's due to a one way tunnel at the bottom. It's a single lane with a light opening traffic up or down. It's not stop and go all the way up. There's lots more exploring in Marin Headlands. However, once you turn left to go up to scenic view, it's one way which is really nice actually. Plenty of room for bikers and side road parking. There are toilets...they are atrocious for the rest of the nasty visitors. Next time I go, I'm taking a big garbage bag to clean up the look out. There were people up there taking group photos with a sign telling Biden to pay attention to global warming - such nonsense from them as I saw them all leaving in separate cars. And there was a ton of trash at the lookout! Bottles and garbage. They didn't pick up anything - so much for their concern! read more

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This place provides a wonderful view of Golden Gate Bridge. The hike to get to this place is easy. You can bike, hike/walk or drive to this place. However, the car parking is limited. You can also see the military outpost for SF harbor which was used in the past and you can see old abandoned military buildings on the way to this place. I personally would suggest to visit this place just before the sunset. The view Golden Gate Bridge and the sunset together is amazing. read more

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A little tricky getting here, but totally worth the drive. Took the Richmond bridge from Oakland and it was about a 45 min drive. The views were worth it read more

Battery Spencer - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

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The best spot to watch sunset along with the Golden Gate Bridge! You should also take the short hike to the military base ruins! The only difficult part is getting a parking spot here! We prefer coming here late at night to watch the city all lit up from a pieceful setup. Also bring a bite & coffee!! I normally get a Chana samosa + chai from Pakwan!! read more

Battery Spencer - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

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The Golden Gate Bridge is a phenomenal sight!! If you want to get a better view of this beautiful bridge, then head over to Battery Spencer. What is Battery Spencer? Back in the day (1897-1942), it was one of the main protection points for the San Francisco Harbor. There are several structures to explore if you wish. Most folks, like us, were here to see an incredible view of the Golden Gate Bridge. The views are absolutely breathtaking wherever you look from the vista points. Depending on the weather conditions, you can admire the bay, Alcatraz island, San Francisco, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Simply stunning!! Make sure to bring your camera. You are going to be taking many beautiful and memorable photos!! read more

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Closed down the early entrance passing the bridge. You now have to go around the mountain and start from the top end and work your way down the scenic path to the bridge. It's a one way road now to share with cyclist. Which I bet is amazing bike ride. read more

Selfie with the golden gate you ask? Go to this view/vista point, just the best view of golden gate... make sure to wear or carry a wind sheeter jacket, as no matter what the weather is, it's always super windy (welcome to San Francisco) Come early to get a parking nearby else there is a parking around a mile up. read more

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One of my favorite views of the Golden Gate Bridge! This is the perfect place to get your touristy picture with the bridge. Battery Spencer is located just north of SF across the bridge in Sausalito. Parking is in a small lot at the bottom of the hill so it can be tough to find a spot. You might have to just follow someone to their car. Once you park, the rest is easy. Just walk the short trail uphill to the vista point. At the top it's not too crowded so there's plenty of spots to get your picture with the bridge. It can get pretty windy up there so don't forget a jacket! read more

Battery Spencer - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

I read review after review on various sites trying to prepare for this "semi-quick" stop I HAD to make here... you haven't done SAN Francisco if you don't do the bridge! This was the ONLY spot I wanted to see... we crossed the bridge around 1:15pm 9/22. Traffic was decent, the exit for Vista Point wasn't backed onto the bridge (but I didn't want to pull over there and walk up, so we kept driving to the Alexander Ave exit). Once on our way up to the Marin Headlands I skipped the first overlook parking (due to all the reviews saying EVERYONE stops there instead of going up a bit farther)... the ride up was beautiful - we passed three more overlook spots (that had maybe 10 spots or so in each) and people were lining up in cars waiting for people to leave. Once we got a little further up (way too far for us to walk back down to get to Battery Spencer) there were a few spaces alongside the road on the way back down and many of them were open. We drove back down, still no magical spots open (we weren't lucky), so we tried to play the waiting game in the first overlook parking area... NOONE was coming back to their cars and two other people pulled in to awkwardly wait as well - I threw in the towel and said let's just go back up the hill, pray for an open spot and just walk down - the time it'd take us to get a spot would probably equal the time to walk... so we went back up, still no spots and still major back up at the next two overlooks... we got "lucky" and found a spot at the next overlook and made the trek down to Battery Spencer. We walked on the other side of the railing which can get a little creepy (and amazing) at times with the view STRAIGHT down to Kirby Cove. Once we made it to the iconic photo op spot, it was fairly crowded, but easy to get a few pictures without anyone photobombing. 1 less star just because parking isn't or wasn't ideal on the day and time we went (obviously many others have the same opinion). read more

Great views! As a first timer to San Francisco this was an awesome little journey to drive up the mountain side to see different viewpoints of the Golden Gate Bridge and Bay Area. While this can be a busy road, the parking isn't too bad since everyone moves along rather quickly. Unfortunately I didn't get a chance to hike along the trails however they looked like a great time. There is a small parking lot with an outpost bathroom. Take some toilet paper and hand sanitizer if you plan on using it. So if you're planning on checking out this viewpoint be sure to bring your camera and tripod! Please be good humans and be courteous of others. Park accordingly, not illegal and don't hog your spot all day. Give others a chance to check out the views and Battery Spencer. I would not suggest this drive at night time. I'd imagine that it is not safe. read more

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Being able to look right at the golden gate bridge from a close up view, is truly a great feeling! what more can u ask for? Battery Spencer is located in the Marin Headlands and is a place you MUST visit! Living in San Francisco residents don't take advantage of the beautiful attractions that happen in there everyday neighborhood. Well...Let me just tell you...This is the place to see! First time coming to this location was 3/15/15. Battery Spencer used to be a old military lookout but now it's presented as the best view to see the Golden Gate Bridge and many tourist come here to experience the lovely view! Being able to see the cars driving across the Golden Gate Bridge and the people walking/running on the pathways of the bridge! I'm speechless of how lucky we are here in California. I learned a lot of history about the area. Lets just say that Battery Spencer has been around since YOU were born (Literally). Weather gets pretty chilly so dress in layers and shoes! Parking can be difficult but don't let that be the reason you don't come and visit! This is a sight that is worth *a million bucks* so be able to have the chance and take advantage of the lovely view looking over the Golden Gate Bridge. Don't forget your camera this is truly a wonderful sight to see. Truly a *MUST COME TO SPOT* when in San Francisco! read more

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Probably the best view of the Golden Gate Bridge. I must have go at the right time and say because there was no one there. It's like I had this amazing view all to myself. The trail to get to this view was fun and easy. I would definitely come here again. Absolutely breathtaking ! read more

Looking to change your point of view? Well for a view like no other of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and twinkling city across the San Francisco Bay there is no more stunning viewpoint than Battery Spencer. From 1897 until 1943, Battery Spencer was a cold, isolated, and vital military outpost protecting the Golden Gate. Several buildings and placements for the large cannons that used to stand guard on the hill remain. Just beyond the desolate buildings, Battery Spencer offers a stunsome photobulous opportutastic panorama like no other of San Francisco. Parking is almost impossible ... almost ..., but it is possible. If you can't find a spot drive up a little further to a roundabout and then come back down the hill and "wait" behind other cars for someone to leave. It's windy and cold up there. Most people won't stay long, so, have patience ... Good views come to those who wait. The popular nearby tourist vista point across Redwood Highway 1 offers a nice view of the Golden Gate. Join the tour buses there if you like; however, for an even more impressive photo op, head up Conzelman Road to Battery Spencer. You came to San Francisco to see the Golden Gate Bridge and THIS is the spot to do so. read more

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Located at the beginning of the Marin Headlands, Battery Spencer offers unparalleled views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco. On a clear day, you can see for miles and miles into the city. This used to be a military outpost used to defend the bridge and access into the city with 3 large long guns. The guns have since been removed, but the remaining structures are still there and pretty well preserved. If you're a bit of a history buff, you can explore the structures before walking out to the absolutely breathtaking views. There are several ways to get here, and I personally think biking is the most rewarding. You can also walk/hike or drive, but if you do drive, parking can be limited and you'll feel more accomplished if you reach it via bike or foot. If you do opt for self powered locomotion, there's a hill with a steep incline that will give you a great workout and severely test your mettle and willpower. Just keep pushing, because the views are worth it. If you're still not convinced that the trek here is worth your time, I'll have you know there's a Pokemon GO gym at the top. See you there! read more

Battery Spencer - Best view of SF! - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

There are difficult questions and then, there are the easy ones. Every European I've ever broached the subject with easily and assuredly identifies San Francisco as the most beautiful city in America. And what better vantage point to see the city from than atop a hill overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge? I've already documented my fascination with the Bridge (http://www.yelp.com/biz/golden-gate-bridge-san-francisco#hrid:Hypv7CIGHu3LmpCW9tCDZA) so I won't get into all the reasons why I love it so. But if you really want to see the bridge, I mean REALLY see it, you need to get on top of it... and after walking along a path away from Battery Spencer, you'll reach a place that will leave you feeling like you're on top of the world. Bring your DSLR. Load on the layers. Wear your sunglasses, as the whipping wind will tear your eyes right up. And maybe, the view will too. read more

Battery Spencer - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

There is never a time that I don't come here and wish that I could have been here back when this place was still a thriving military site. If your coming from the East Bay take the last exit before the Golden Gate and head up the hill. You cant miss the parking lot. I came here the first time when I was 17 for a photography class I was taking. When I came here at least 10 years ago the buildings were a drab white color and the trails were not as upgraded as they are now. They have painted everything a new drab military green tone. I think the new green is easier to cover up the graffiti than the old cream white color. Not to mention the gorgeous view of the Golden Gate. Every time I have been here the view has been clear as a bell. No fog at all. I think that's just luck though. I always secretly wished that someone would take me up here and propose marriage to me. Of course that never happened but I cant complain where I was proposed to. (Fairmont Hotel-SF, over looking the garden) If you have never been here you should take the time to visit. Its American History, its beautiful, its peaceful and sometimes kind of romantic. This is one of my favorite places to go. Best of all it doesn't cost a thing to go visit. read more

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A romantic getaway in San Francisco would not be complete without seeing the beautiful Golden Gate Bridge. And if you cross the bridge going north, from San Francisco to Sausalito, and then make the very short drive west, up the hill to Battery Spencer, you'll be treated to a spectacular view of the GGB and the San Francisco skyline. This is one of the most popular spots for photographing the GGB and definitely the best place to take photos of the towers of the bridge. A must-see or place to visit for all tourists, photographers and the hopeless romantic. And like all the other wonderful places to view the bridge up-close, it costs you absolutely nothing to get up here! read more

The best spot to see the golden gate bridge for sure. Lots of parking and a little walk on a gravel path for an amazing view of the bridge. read more

Battery Spencer - I recommend going at sunset - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

Perfect place to get the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco in the background. Parking could be a littl crazy but usually you won't have to wait too long. read more

Battery Spencer - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

Best view ever! Parking is a hassle I highly recommend catching an Uber avoid the bridge fees and parking issues also (climb thru the fence for those amazing IG pics) read more

Battery Spencer - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

Historical landmark with both ruins and spectacular views of the San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge - what's not to love?! I enjoyed exploring the abandoned structures just as much as I enjoyed the beautiful surroundings. I can't wait to go back and visit! read more

Awesome view! Specially in a day like today, super sunny, almost no wind and absolutely lovely. I have a colleague visiting from London and during lunch time we venture to grab an Uber and go from the Financial district to the Battery Spencer in Sausalito. Not too close but also not too far (lunch can wait or, better, you can have your improvised picnic there). Never seen the city and the Golden Gate from this perspective and so far is my favorite. Postcard picture worth it. If you are into romantic things, you won't miss taking a pic of those little metal hearts...look for them! read more

Battery Spencer - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

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Great spot for visitors or photographers... totally different view of the Golden Gate Bridge, the Bay, and the beautiful city! It's probably the spot where you the postcard pics were taken too. The only thing I want to talk about here is how to get there. Hidden gem, very hidden, as it took us half hour driving around to find the way! So from the freeway, get off at the second exit at Alexander Avenue, take a left uphill, keep going, it's steep, and not much traffic... there are several parking areas on the way, depending on how high you want to go. Don't worry, you won't miss it, as you will see a bunch other people taking pictures too. Just driving carefully! Not much to say verbally, the pictures say it all! read more

Best view of the Golden Gate Bridge you can find! Parking was ridiculous but it moved fast since lots of people left while we got there. It's a hike up to the view but don't be afraid, San Francisco looks beautify from here and I could write a poem about how that view is the reason why San Fran is the best city on Earth. Regardless, a must-go for tourists but don't tell other tourists haha read more

Battery Spencer - Best view - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

I had a little bit of trouble finding this location but basically, it's the first turnaround AFTER the Vista Point on Conzelman Road. Parking is limited and people tend to lurk to get a space but the view of the Golden Gate Bridge can't be beat! I was going to go to Fort Point for my obligatory tourist snapshot but the weather was SO GLOOMY and overcast on that side of the bridge. I decided to drive the extra few minutes and cross the bridge... and literally as I'm crossing the bridge, it's a difference between night and day!!! The weather was so clear and the skies so blue as my picture indicates. Do yourself a favor and CROSS THAT BRIDGE! You're already in San Francisco, might as well get that golden snapshot of the Golden Gate Bridge! Remember that there is a toll to cross the bridge back into San Francisco! You can either make a One-Time Payment up to 30 days before or 48 hours after crossing the Golden Gate Bridge or charge the toll to your FasTrak Account if you have one! read more

Battery Spencer - That view! - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

Go to Battery Spencer for the best yet unique view of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge! Almost everyone will choose the easy and the well-known way at the Welcome Center on the south end, but Battery Spencer on the north end literally has the higher vantage without the obstruction! Formerly a defensive battery, this viewpoint is now abandoned. Clearly Battery Spencer was not designed to be a tourist spot as the restroom is extremely sketchy and the whole ground remains wild, but hey, you are here only for the bridge anyway! Because you will be viewing the bridge toward the east, it's also a great spot to see the sunrise against the most photographed bridge in the world. That being said, while the battery is free to enter, you do have to pay the toll on the bridge if you return to SF, so you should also plan to visit Sausalito in the same crossing. However, I still think this is a much better place to view the Golden Gate Bridge not only because of the wonderful view but also because it's much less crowded! I went early in the morning though and you should too, because parking is extremely limited. --- tl;dr version: 1) Abandoned defensive battery with the best view of GGB 2) Free to view though the facilities are not maintained read more

Battery Spencer - Sausalito coast - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

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BEST VIEW OF SF ever. I take all of my guests to this spot. Pictures will never do it justice. (Bring cameras, bring LAYERS as it's always cold or windy, day or night is awesome.) read more

Battery Spencer - The best view in the bay! - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

Definitely the BEST place for a view of the Golden Gate Bridge. I'm born and raised in SF and I felt like a tourist when I was here. I was just so amazed by the view and how majestic the bridge looked. The bridge feels really close in front of you and you really can't take a bad picture, especially when there's clear skies. The main downside to going here is that you have to drive and so there is basically no parking. There is a small lot right in front of the entrance to Battery Spencer and there are a few tiny lots if you keep driving up Conzelman Road. But, it gets pretty crowded and there's usually a lot of traffic since its a one lane road each way. I would recommend going early so that you have time to look for parking. The next small lot is about a mile away so be prepared to walk a little bit if you don't get lucky with that first lot. I would also recommend bringing food- there's plenty of space to have a picnic and to sit and take in the scenery. I definitely want to come back but during sunset next time! read more

Battery Spencer - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

What a gorgeous view of the Golden Gate Bridge!!! Another breath taking view in San Francisco!! I've use to go here all the time before but it was even more special going with my gentleman! He yet again surprised me with this place! (: The weather was perfect!!! No fog! I loved it!! Usually when I would go here awhile back it would be gloomy, haha. We enjoyed our early morning here on [August 15, 2015] :) read more

Battery Spencer - Early morning around 8-9am? :) - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Sausalito, California

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