I think this is a definitely a must see when visiting San Francisco. It has the best views possible with 360' of viewing and photo opportunities. There is a very small admission to go to the top of the tower, but it is totally worth it. There is very limited parking, so I would plan ahead. You can walk to it from Little Italy or the hillside facing the Piers, but it is a hefty hike. Even though a bit of a hike to take on, it is very enjoyable and worth it for the experience. For those who may have health issues, I would say to not even attempt it. Avoid the weekends, because it is busier then. Not sure what times of day is best, but we went after lunch and it was a bit busy, but manageable. You might have to wait a little for the elevator ride due to the age and capacity of the lift, but it moves right along. We accessed it from the back walking up form Little Italy, but regretted not walking down the front through the zigzagging walkways leading back down to the Piers. No matter what, San Francisco in my opinion is a walking city if you are up to it, but Uber is everywhere with less then a 5 minute wait if you get lazy. read more

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Coit Tower finally reopens after half a year of renovations, and I came here with a friend with high expectations. When we arrived, there was already a long line to get into the elevator (price: $7 for non-residents, and $5 for residents). The murals inside the waiting area were superbly well-renovated; the colors were very vibrant, and in general the scenes kept you interested while waiting in line. (There were also restrooms on the ground floor, but beware -- the space is pretty small!) While waiting, you can also go outside to see the scenery of SF, perfect when it is a clear and sunny day. We waited about 30 minutes to get to the elevator and up the tower. When I got up to the tower, I was slightly disappointed. What would be a magnificent view of SF is mostly obscured by all the closed windows. That being said, there are points where you can look out to see the Bay Bridge and the Golden Gate Bridge. The space itself is also pretty small, so there isn't much room for pictures. We were there for less than 10 minutes, maximized our photo-taking opportunities, and took the elevator back down. All in all, I would rank this more like 3.5 stars because 1) tickets are overpriced and 2) the long wait to for a less-than-10-minute visit at the top of the tower. Would come again only if bringing friends who are touring the city, but otherwise, would probably recommend to go hiking instead (free!) and getting the same view. That being said, the historic nature and murals of this tower are unbeatable. read more

Coit Tower - Panorama of SF - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - San Francisco, California

Love the views! Elevator was not working but still worth the walk up the stairs! Friendly service too!

We very much enjoyed the Coit Tower experience. Definitely take the Filbert steps to get there - the view is stunning and it's a peaceful haven in the city! We paid to go up in the tower and I thought it was worth it. There was quite a line (we went on a Friday just before closing and waited about 45 minutes) but once we got up to the top of the tower, the views were incredible. You can view out over the city and houses as well as the bay! The staff was very fun and kind. Definitely something worth experiencing. read more

Coit Tower - Coit Tower from the ground. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - San Francisco, California

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We used a ride sharing app to get us up the steep hill to Coit Tower. I am definitely glad we chose to do that instead of driving up ourselves. The line was long and they were warning us that we may not get up to the tower on time since they predicted that it was an hour wait, but we were able to make it on time. It costs $9 for adult admission and there is a small gift shop. There is a mural that wraps around the walls that tells the story of the people in San Francisco and it is fascinating to look at while you wait in line. After you get the stamp, you wait for you turn to take the elevator up to the staircase. The views of San Francisco are beautiful from the top. It gets pretty windy and cold up there, so be prepared. There are windows that help block you from the wind, but if they are open for viewing, it can get chilly. Overall, a visit to the Coit Tower is a must. There is not much to it other than the elevator ride and the view, but it is a must see. read more

Eh. This tower has a nice view but the process to get up to the viewing area is not good. First of all, it was packed. PACKED PACKED PACKED. It must have taken us over an hour to get up to the viewing area. I know it was a holiday weekend, but regardless there needs to be some changes to the process (or lack thereof). It seemed like there was no direction regarding how visitors got up there nor how long they could stay. This was my second trip to San Francisco and I'd never done this attraction before. If something has to be cut from your itinerary this might be a good option, particularly if it is a holiday weekend. read more

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4 stars, only bc the lady with long grey hair and a top hat, Michelle, was incredibly rude, uninformative and very unwelcoming. We felt pushed and rushed upon entering. Amazing views, rest of the staff was very helpful but Michelle was so off putting. I tried joking with her and that didn't seem to phase her. What a weird experience. read more

Coit Tower - Bay Bridge from Coit Tower - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - San Francisco, California

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There's nothing I can add that hasn't already been said in previous reviews. It's an observation tower on a hill. You can see majority of the Bay, Alcatraz, the iconic bridges, as well as the SF skyline. I'll throw my 2c in the hat and further reinforce that this is indeed the best view in the city and for only $10, it's a steal. read more

Spectacular views can be had from the top of Coit Tower. You can see the bay, the bridge, the whole city. It's gorgeous! The area surrounding the tower is lush and beautiful in itself, and if you pay attention, you may just see some of the wild parrots. We did (listen for their call!), but they were too high up to get good photos. It's $8 per person to take the elevator to the top. There are some lovely murals on the walls, be sure to walk through and check them out before you take your ride. The elevator is small, and people will pack in with you. It was pretty uncomfortable but it was over quickly. There are stairs from the elevator to the viewing area, but they are pretty easy to navigate. The view is simply amazing. Definitely worth the $8 and the uncomfortable elevator ride. We got some terrific photos, and since the day was clear, were able to see Golden Gate and Alcatraz! read more

Yes, the trees are overgrown and blocking the famous view... but I think the purpose is to force you to buy the ticket to climb the tower. Just found out for the first time after a dozen visits here that there is a spot at the back with agreat great view of the Bay Bridge. read more

Coit Tower - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - San Francisco, California

Coit tower is just one of those things you have to do when visiting San Francisco. Lots of history and awesome murals inside the bottom of the tower. A quick elevator ride up and you have an amazing panoramic view of the city. A quick hour visit should be enough. read more

This is definitely something you must do in SF. This tower has such a cute history behind it. It was built in Pioneer Park atop Telegraph Hill in 1933 at the bequest of Lillie Hitchcock Coit to beautify the City of San Francisco; Lillie bequeathed one-third of her estate to the City of San Francisco "to be expended in an appropriate manner for the purpose of adding to the beauty of the city which I have always loved." Luckily my friend lives right behind Coit Tower which is close to Lombard street (most crooked street in the world! (its not really but known as one) so we just hiked up the scenic steps. Then when we got there we realized we had to pay to go up the tower! That's fine I'll probably only do this once in a blue moon. Its 5 bucks.. I was hoping for the challenge of walking up tons of steps but you actually take an elevator up 21 stories and then 30 odd steps to the top. Then you look through these openings that are protected with clear plastic/glass so you don't jump through it? Smart idea- sadly who knows what people are thinking. Once you get up there you get to see all of SF in its glory. Literally walk to every window and you'll see a different amazing view. From Alcatraz, Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Bridge, Fairmont Hotel, etc. I don't necessarily think its worth 5 bucks to spend a few minutes up there but its worth experience. Parking is limited up there and you have to navigate your way up so if you don't get parking you'll sure be disappointed. One of the tourist things to do though- check it off your list! (I noticed that it was run by Asian men too- typical?) read more

Coit Tower - 5.00 to see the view of SF- worth it every once a blue moon - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - San Francisco, California

Back in the day, there were no plastic covers over the window holes at the top, you could just lean out through the windows. It always made my feet hurt, because I was so scared. I have been up here on dates over the years, it's a romantic make out spot, but now that I'm married, I haven't been there in years. That sounds sad. I took some visiting friends here today, and it remains a popular and picturesque location. We didn't shell out the money to go to the top, but enjoyed the art downstairs, and the small and sorta icky bathroom. I liked reading about Lillie Coit, she was a woman of adventure! What a character! Bummers: parking is tight. Carpool. And the landscaping obscures the views, which seems ridiculous given what a tourist and photograph mecca it has become. read more

How have I managed to live in the San Francisco bay area my whole life and only saw this place for the first time a few months ago? Well the answer is that this is a tourist spot. I was taking my dirty Volkswagen diesel for a spin with my brother and ended up here. Up the hill we went and although there are many views in SF this one seemed particularly breathtaking. I'm not sure why? Perhaps the proximity to the Bay Bridge? Its a landmark -- not a really beautiful one but its there. My brother kept saying it looked like a whatnot. You can get a photo of yourself with the whatnot. There are lots of tourists so if you speak a second language it can be a good excuse for you to practice. read more

Coit Tower - Beautiful day at Coit tower. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - San Francisco, California

This year's family staycation in SF included my hubby's first visit to Coit Tower. He's a Vallejo native but you know how we locals do; we go to San Francisco landmarks in our 30s and 40s or if/when we have kids. We picked a perfect spring day to walk from our Nob Hill hotel to North Beach and eventually up to Coit Tower. My daughter and I had previously visited during the foggy summer. Those views are stunning in the sunshine. It was crowded but they only let a certain number of people spend a limited amount of time at the top before moving onto the next group. The staff is friendly and quirky; our elevator operator had jokes and the gentleman running the gift shop is a dear. There are many ways to get here. We had gone up the Filbert steps before and this time we came up from North Beach. Quit being a cynic and visit. read more

In A Nutshell: -Did you know the history behind Coit Tower? -It's dedicated to Lillian Hitchcock Coit. -She was fascinated by firefighters, even became the first woman firefighter. -She wore pants, gambled and smoked cigars :) -Rumor has it she loved putting out fires so much that she started fires around the City just to put them out. -This hill has some very nice views of the entire city. Overall, funny how there's a statue of Christopher Columbus up here as well. read more

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Second time up here at Coit Tower and let me just say, I will never not go to San Francisco without coming up here. The views are just superb. Views of the Bay Bridge, Fisherman's Warf, the skyscrapers of San Francisco, Coit Tower changing colors every few seconds, just such a perfect place to spend some time taking pictures. During the evening hours, oh my gosh, just stunning. Definitely would recommend coming up when you travel to San Francisco read more

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COIT TOWER IS A MUST! It is $8 dollars to go to the top, but you get the most amazing views of the city. There is an elevator in the tower that takes you from the base to the top. When you go back down you end up in a gift shop, which was somewhat surprising. They also have some tour but seemed to be more adhoc. Getting there... TAKE A RIDE SHARE. the steps to get there from the Embarcadero are no joke. We took a Lyft up to Coit Tower but walked down the stairs on the way down. We saw so many exhausted faces on their way up. This was definitely my favorite tourist thing I did in San Fra. read more

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I highly recommend stopping here whenever you're in San Francisco! We walked from Pier 33 then took the Greenwich steps which I won't lie, is one heck of a hike especially for out-of-shape people but it was well worth it! It cost $8 or $9 (I don't quite remember) per person to go up the elevator (which only takes 8-10 people at a time) to the top of the tower where you can look out and have a 360 view of the city. It was breathtaking! You can spot the Transamerica Pyramid, the Ferry Building, Pier 39, and of course, the Golden Gate Bridge. There is no time limit however just be courteous of how long you're spending up at the tower as the line can get quite long. This was my favorite stop during my time at San Francisco and I will definitely be back the next time I am in town. read more

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Close to telegraph hill plus amazing views of the GG and Alcatraz. What else could you ask for? I have been here a few times and each visit I have walked; however, you can drive but parking is limited. I haven't done a tour or anything like that I just enjoy taking in the miraculous vistas. read more

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Definitely worth a visit. It's not open late but make sure to stop by at night when it's all lit up. Beautiful views of the city from here. read more

Coit Tower - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - San Francisco, California

I'm not sure why being from the Bay Area I've never been here. I came at night and found great parking. This is a San Francisco landmark. You can go inside and there is a lot of art but we went after hours. You can walk all around and see the art at night. This place is beautiful definitely worth coming. The review of the city is breathtaking and very romantic. It was a really nice relaxing walk. A lot of tourists come here. I have to come during the day when you can go inside but coming at night was beautiful. This is a must especially if you live in the Bay Area and never been here. read more

There is nothing more to the Coit Tower than getting one of the best 360-degree views of the city and learning about the history of California's economy through the amazing mural paintings. You can enjoy the panoramic view just outside of the tower or pay a ticket ($8/non-resident adult) to take the elevator to get to the top. read more

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This is another great landmark in the city of San Francisco. We drove up the hill and into the parking lot that sits at the base of the tower. Parking can be tough normally, but we lucked out and found a spot right away. A quick walk up the steps led us into the tower. From there, we bought tickets to the observation deck, and waited in line to take the elevator up. The observation deck is reachable through a narrow winding staircase that we encountered after getting off the elevator. This deck provides a 360-degree view of the surrounding area. Photography enthusiasts like myself love this place, as it gives a good view of the metro area, Alcatraz, and the surrounding bay. Folks from all over the place come here, and it can get very packed at times. I recommend finding parking just before you get to the hill, and walk up the short hiking path to the tower. It's a good exercise. This is a must see, check it out! read more

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My dog and I LOVE Dianne. We come up to get coffee in the morning just because my dog loves all the attention he gets. He pulls me up the stairs just to get to the little kiosk because he loves it so much. My dog even got loose once and he ran straight for her. She's what makes coit tower so great. read more

Coit Tower - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - San Francisco, California

Great view of the whole city. You can see three bridges the bay etc. The staff that work the lines and elevator were great. It is worth the 8 bucks. The line moves slow because the elevator can only take about eight visitors at a time and only 35 people are allowed to the top of tower at one time. I wished they would allow us to take stairs down but I guess crowd control. read more

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It wasnt terrible but there's not much of a view because of all the over grown trees in the way

Some of the friendliest staff I've ever seen! Great views as well! This was my first time in SF and I wasn't really sure what to expect. Although it took me about an hour and fifteen minutes of waiting, it was definetly worth it in the end. Only issue was the time wait, but it's understandable with how old the building is, and there is only one elevator to go up. If you're looking for a spot to get some great photos, this is definetly it. Although the Golden gate Bridge is a bit far, you can see just about every part of SF city from here. read more

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This is a great place to take in the wonderful views of the city. The best part is - it's free for the most part. If you want to take the elevator to the top of the actual tower when they're open, the views are even better, but that's when there's a fee. Regardless, it should be a must see when in San Francisco. There are a variety of different ways you can get up to the tower. Uber or driving is probably the easiest but there is also a huge ass hill on Filbert + Kearney you can take on that's fun, too. We chose the endless flights of stairs coming from Fisherman's Wharf. We knew it was going to be a steep climb, but damn. It was a nice day in the city with heavy, chilly winds, but halfway up, I was peeling off clothes and sweating up a storm. Along the climb, there are various places to stop and check out the water views. Your path is through a lot of greenery and you can check out some of the pricey homes along the path as well. Once you're about 3/4 of the way up, you'll hear a great deal of squawking. Apparently this is where all of the wild parrots of SF convene and take refuge in the high trees. We didn't get to see any of them, but definitely heard them. I love coming up here. If you're not driving, I'd recommend the stairs and then taking the hill down. It's a lot easier! read more

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Coit Tower aka the Lillian Coit Memorial tower was built in 1933 following Lillie Coit's death. At her bequest, she gave a third of her fortune to the city of San Francisco for civic beautification. This is one of the monuments built in her honor. It is listed in the National Register of Historic Places as of 2008. It sort of looks like the nozzle of a fire hose, which is appropriate since Lillie Coit had an affinity for firefighters. Sean C. and I took the 600 Filbert steps from the Levi campus up to Coit Tower. It was a workout as we ascended. We took a few short breaks in between but we made it to the top! The views of San Francisco from the tower are breathtaking and we did it on a day when it was clear. It costs $8 per person to take the tiny elevator up to the top of the tower but it is a reasonable price to pay for the upkeep of the monument. Keep backpacks on the front of your body as to not damage the murals or accidentally hit someone behind you as requested by the staff. There's a statue of Christopher Columbus out in the parking lot which I thought was strange because Columbus never visited North America, let alone California. We enjoyed the 360 degree views of the city and made our decent. There's a small park outside of the tower and it has plenty of benches for resting, reading, or just enjoying the outdoors. There's a Coit Tower MUNI (39) bus that will drive you up from Fisherman's Wharf & North Beach, which we weren't aware of, but we took it down the hill because we were tired from our workout. It's only $2.25 for bus fare or if you had a MUNI Passport, it was included. We ended up in Fisherman's Wharf and took a separate bus back to Union Square. read more

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Coit Tower is a beautiful landmark, a tourist spot, but not touristy. I first visited it years ago with family. The tower lies atop Telegraph Hill. From its upper floor, a guest has a decent view of the surrounding area. Inside, there are a collection of murals for public viewing. If you like art, check those out. If you want to take photos, shots of the tower itself are your best bet. I recommend walking (or jogging) to the top of the hill, then the tower, to avoid the hassle of driving, then dealing with parking. read more

Coit Tower is a memorial that was built and funded for the beautification of San Francisco by Lillie Hitchcock Coit in the 1930's following her death. This remarkable tower in Telegraph Hill has views that overlook the entire city of San Francisco and the Bay! Although I am terrified of heights Coit Tower was something I would not pass up visiting. Tickets are about $6 per person. Once you purchase your ticket you wait in line in the lobby which is filled with fresco murals. After a short elevator ride up and a few steps up you are at the top of Coit Tower. It was breathtaking to be able to see the 360 view of San Francisco. http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/coit-tower-san-francisco?select=m2YElI9jybPNBaXbo7Ocyw The young gentleman who was working the elevator gives you a brief history and was quite funny as well. Be courteous and leave him a tip! Coit Tower is definitely a must see while in San Francisco! **For other pics of Coit Tower check out my Instagram @gloria_rose_ read more

Coit Tower - Coit Tower and some views! - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - San Francisco, California

Coit Tower reminds me of two things 1) The episode of Full House when the Tanner's dog Comet has a rendezvous with some bitch (female dog) at the top of Coit. 2) In the movie Dr. Dolittle there's a scene where a tiger is on the ledge of the tower, contemplating suicide, when two rats who are at the bottom of the tower shout out "go ahead and jump you big pussy!" I always thought that was hilarious. read more

Coit Tower - Tower - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - San Francisco, California

I had expected the Coit Tower to be more expensive than $8 but when we checked the website, I was like maybe it does not worth a visit or what?! Such a prejudice! Seems like NYC's attractions' being over $15-$20 surprises us at other states. We stayed at Zephyr Hotel at Fisherman's Wharf so it was about 20 minutes walk for us but beware of the hill to climb, not that steep but no bicyle, stroller I would say. Some stairs to climb to reach tower. We visited on Sunday, wait was about half an hour. Along the line, you can kill time by watching the artworks on the walls. They are earth-friendly, instead of paper tickets they stamp your hand and it is the cutest stamp :) IluvSF :) There was also a larger stamp of Golden Gate and ticketing officer used it for kids to amuse them, so nice. Elevator is good for 10 people, an old school one. Once you hit the top, towers with glass windows will meet you. Some windows are open for better photo shoots but really windy it was. 360 degree city view. Perfect for photography lovers. Open top like a half dome seems so cool with clouds above you. read more

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Coit Tower is a great place to go in order to get a nice view of all of San Francisco from up high. I went there on one of my first days while visiting, and it was a wonderful opportunity to see how everything is laid out. The cost is $9 to ride the elevator up (I am not sure if they have stairs for free). At the top, there are windows all around to look out. The windows aren't the most clear, but you can still see out of them. The elevator attendant said that sometimes they are opened, which I think would have provided a better experience. If you are walking to the tower from within the city, it is quite a trek. You have to climb a steep hill before climbing more stairs to get to the tower. I would not recommend it if you think this would be physically difficult for you. There is also an access point by car, which I believe is easier. Overall, this is a good place to go for viewing San Francisco! read more

Coit Tower - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - San Francisco, California

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I know, I know - I'm flinty. I just didn't want to pay $11 for me and my 5 year old to ride to the top of Coit Tower. I wonder if they have a "local discount" - next time I'll ask. The thrill of living in San Francisco is always reignited when I visit one of our amazing tourist spots like Coit Tower. The views, the WPA murals, the history. Only in San Francisco would a 'ho like Lillie Hitchcock Coit be so revered - and how funny and great is that? I love San Francisco. read more

Over the years, I have experienced Coit Tower in many ways - From the Filbert Steps, over from a Friend's apartment on Telegraph Hill, during a running event that ended at the Top, as a way to burn off calories after a North Beach dinner, relaxing on the back lawn, enjoying the architecture and parrots, watching the Blue Angels during Fleet Week, and as a distant Beacon coming across the Bay Bridge or on the Alcatraz boat. I also like going inside, riding up for another view, and enjoying the murals. Coit Tower is San Francisco's landmark and one that reorients me to the City by the Bay almost every time that I visit. The only similar experience that I know of is Vista House at Crown Point just outside of Portland along the Columbia River. Coit Tower was built in 1933 at the bequest of Lillie Hitchcock Coit (a wealthy socialite who loved to chase fires) to beautify the city of San Francisco. The art deco tower is made of unpainted reinforced concrete and includes murals by 26 different artists and numerous assistants. The tower was not designed to resemble a fire hose nozzle, despite Coit's affinity with the San Francisco firefighters of the day, in particular with Knickerbocker Engine Company Number 5. Lillie Coit was one of the more eccentric characters in the history of North Beach and Telegraph Hill, smoking cigars and wearing trousers long before it was socially acceptable for women to do so. She was an avid gambler and often dressed like a man in order to gamble in the males-only establishments that dotted North Beach. Coit was reputed to have shaved her head so her wigs would fit better. In other words, she was one of the many typical San Franciscans and a matron saint to the City's firefighters. read more

We were a "tourist" for the day. This is one of the many places you need to go if you're visiting SF. The view is breath taking. If you plan to drive up here, parking is not the easiest and obviously they have a time limit on it. We came here to see the 4th of July fireworks. Was it the greatest place to view it? Not really, but it was still nice. From this area, you're able to view both sections of the firework but it seemed as if they were far away. Also the trees blocked the view of lower fireworks. I recommend if you plan to watch it next year, stay at the Pier or better yet go to the Beach. As for Coit tower itself, you can take the elevator to the top floor for $7.00. It's nothing exciting except a larger view of SF. You're better off going to Twin Peaks and it's FREE. The downfall on the view at the top of the tower is, some of the windows have bars on them. Preventing you to take a picture of the view or even enjoying the view. The space at the top is not very large. From the outside you can see three open levels of the tower, when you get to the top you're actually at the center of both openings (the small windows). You cannot go into the open sections, which I didn't know that. Kind of a bummer. Oh well. Another touristy place that is only good for a "drive-by" read more

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My son was having sleep issues so I found myself at Coit tower at 4:30 in the morning. Surprisingly, there were a lot of cars in the lot and there was a group of youths smoking weed in the parking lot. I wasn't afraid, though because I used to do a Tai Bo aerobics video, so I know some moves. It was beautiful sitting outside watching the sunrise over the bay. Here's what coit tower is: One of the most interesting and recognizable features of any city skyline ever, and also a place to get great panoramic views of the city and especially the bay. Is it worth a visit? I never thought so, but if you find yourself nearby, it's a nice place to stop for 20 minutes and take pictures. The views of the bay are breathtaking, and up close, the tower is interesting and makes for great photographs. If you ever find yourself awake in the middle of the night, go to Bob's donuts and pick up some coffee, and donuts, sit outside the tower, and enjoy the beauty. Maybe if you're lucky, some of the youths will share their "stuff". Bring donuts to share. read more

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I'm reviewing this for the K9 population out there. Coit Tower is an awesome place to take your owner for a walk because of the great workout you can get from the steep inclines to the entrance. Another great point is the fact that there are so many freaking tall trees where you can do your business in private. Because of CA's financial struggle, the garden maintenance is having a difficult time cutting down the shrubs by the parking lot so you can not have a decent view of the Golden Gate Bridge and the rest of the beautiful city. After a steady walk, you can be rest assured the city has provided your own water bowl next to the regular water fountains (see photo). Too cool! - I think this is really the last SF review for my trip! Sorry out of order! read more

Coit Tower - human and doggie water fountains - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - San Francisco, California

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