Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Coit Tower Photos

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - Coit Tower

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Darci K.

    If you live in San Francisco, or you're just a visitor, chances are that you've seen the infamous Coit Tower at some point as you moved around the city. Coit Tower has a fascinating history, as it was built in 1933, using money left by a socialite that had a deep love for San Francisco. Stipulation for the money that she left to the city was that the money we used to beautify her beloved city. Hence the Tower being named for her. The drive up telegraph is picturesque. Keep in mind once you get to the tower, there is extremely limited parking. It's free to walk around the grounds, the exterior of the tower, and it's so incredibly beautiful that on a fairly clear day, you can see the Golden Gate Tower from the grounds. Tours are offered and the cost is around $11 per person depending on age. If you live in San Francisco, your ticket is discounted. The interior tour of the Tower is fascinating and filled with art and murals, that created political and civil controversy even back in the 30s! The views from the top of the tower, allow you to see literally all over the city. It literally and figuratively is a breath of fresh air. There is an elevator that will allow you to get to the top if you choose not to walk. Most everyone takes the elevator. There is a European style restroom outside, along with a snack shack, which is where you can purchase the tour tickets. This is definitely a recommended visit. If you do decide to go, timing is everything and if you can go when it's super clear not foggy, you'll be able to see some of the most spectacular sites

    Golden Gate Bridge in the fog.
    James M.

    I lived here for several years and never went to this historic tower, but today, while visiting the city again, I went. I loved it! The elevator has recently been repaired, which made the elevation to the top much easier. The views from the top of the tower are gorgeous, and you get a full 360 degree view of the city and bay. The admission price was only $11 for the elevator to the top, and it is well worth this nominal price. The lobby of the tower is covered in depression area murals everywhere you look. These murals show life in SF from the time they were painted, and they are amazing. Everywhere you look, there is something beautiful at Coit Tower, originally built to honor firemen. There is a restroom inside the lobby of the tower, as well as a European style toilet outside, as well as an inexpensive coffee shop. You will love it. Enjoy!

    View on the Way Up to the Tower from the Steps
    Kristina M.

    This iconic San Francisco building is worth the visit. The walk up the ~26 flights of stairs gives beautiful views of the bay and homes near the tower. You can drive directly to the tower, but parking is very limited. If you are able bodies the stairs is a great way to travel to the tower. You can pay to take an elevator to the top and see the view (highly recommend) or remain in the main floor to explore the brief information about the tower and view the detailed murals.

    Coit tower
    Sho R.

    I stopped by on a Sunday afternoon. There was not that much of a rush. Price was $11/person. Elevator was out of order. So I had to walk up 13 flights. That was not fun. From top, I could see whole SFO, including golden gate bridge and alcatraz island.

    Mike V.

    After checking out Chinatown, we decided to head up the hill and get a view of the city from Coit Tower. We lucked out when we got to the top of the hill and caught a parking spot as someone else was leaving. There are very few spots at the top lot, otherwise, you need to park lower, and hike up the stairs. Once inside the walls are lined with murals from the Great Depression, showing the important industries that helped shape the city and state. For a small price you can get a ticket and climb 234 steps to the top of the tower to a 360 degree overlook of the city. The art deco tower was built as a monument to the firefighters who saved the city from the great fire. The view at the top is great, and you can see out from all sides. Great experience, and somewhere worth checking out for a good view

    A bird of prey (hawk?). A few were swooping around.
    Sagruilla P.

    While this tower atop Telegraph Hill may not be on visitors' must-do lists, it is a worthwhile visit with the best view in the city, and the murals inside are an important slice of American history. We walked up from Montgomery BART to get a walk in through North Beach. If you can handle the cardio to hike up the hill and steps, do it! The building and 1930s public works murals are free. The view is great from there. But for an extra cost, you can go up 210 feet to the open air viewing platform, and those views are astounding. The gift shop has local art, at relatively affordable prices.

    Marc M.

    Super cool place. Take time to learn the history (the plaque at the bottom of the stairs out front is excellent info). Great views of the city 360°!

    One of many views from the top and
    Jessica L.

    This is where I wanted to go for Mother's Day this year. We look at it from our hotel when we visit so why not? It's worth the steps. We walked there and then up the tower and it was super comfortable. The steps are wider and it's def not like a lighthouse. You can stop at each floor to break if you want but really not a bad walk (trust me I'm pregnant and I did it). The murals are great and the service was friendly. In exception to one lady who meant well but was kinda less friendly to us because we had a toddler (concerned he would touch a mural even though he is well behaved and did not). The views are wonderful from the top and the walk down is incredibly easy. They have a penny machine as well as a little gift shop. There's a little park type area around it and the flowers smell beautiful. The public transit is only to and from the wharf but if you want a workout and are some what in shape you can walk there

    No touchy !
    Miekell T.

    Get an UBER, LYFT, or TAXI. Honey, the parking is limited as we already know about SF. If there is parking it is limited to 30 min. So I suggest getting dropped off at this location. You will be driving through a neighborhood to get there. They do have a coffee and snack stand outside of the Tower. There is a gift shop in there. You have the option to take the stairs or take the elevator. Make sure , Make sure, Make SURE to get your ticket to go up the tower from the gift shop counter, or Admissions counter. It could be a 5 to 35 to 1 hour wait - depending on what time of day you go visit. It's beautiful up there. Signed, Your Elite Yelper / Your Guy Haira'pist Blessings

    KingAH W.

    There's a long walk up , and a easy way . We took the long route. The view was beyond the expectation. The old brick/stone work in the area is some of the best of the historical era, in the early 1900s. The Coit Tower has a great view of the bay and the city scape. Worth the many steps to head up the pathway to make it to the top.

    View
    Apex S.

    Lovely place to get a view of the city. First things first, their elevator wasn't functioning which was unfortunate. It meant climbing up 13 floors which may not take that long but was hard for older adults. Tickets were 10 dollars for adults and 7 dollars for senior citizens. Cash otherwise 3.5% credit card charge. As you climb up the staircase, there are beautiful San Francisco murals on the walls for the first two floors. The view from the top is great, a 360 degree view of the city since the tower is almost centrally located. You can catch the golden gate bridge, the pier, Alcatraz, the city towers, all of the sights. Parking is limited, a small circular plot right outside the tower. Allowed on weekdays (and free) but not on weekends so plan accordingly.

    Ari in the blue

    So blessed to live in the Bay with such beautiful places like this. The staff member Ari though--she's the real Coit Tower (she's the best and deserves the world). Thank you so much for the photos, views, and smiles!

    Christopher T.

    A SF landmark to check out. Especially the views of SF downtown. Going up can be round and round and parking can be small, tight and packed. Highly recommended to go early or late in the day for better parking plus great sunrise or sunset over the city. Also suggested to get online tixs in advance or you have to wait inline, especially during weekends and holidays. The views are spectacular on a clear day. You can see everything very clear. Just abit tight on the stairs and sometime you have to wait for the other direction in order to go. But it is definitely a place to check out in SF.

    Inside

    See all

    6 years ago

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 0
    Love this 9
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 0
    Love this 6
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Margret C.
    321
    2350
    10719

    5 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 5
    Thanks 0
    Love this 5
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 25
    Thanks 0
    Love this 25
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Karin F.
    15
    56
    14

    4 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 0
    Love this 6
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of M M.
    0
    203
    21

    5 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 0
    Love this 9
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 10
    Thanks 0
    Love this 9
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 0
    Love this 9
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 9
    Thanks 0
    Love this 8
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 0
    Love this 22
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 0
    Love this 8
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Bri S.
    291
    523
    1470

    9 years ago

    Helpful 9
    Thanks 0
    Love this 10
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 20
    Thanks 0
    Love this 16
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jeremy J.
    1817
    6650
    76589

    6 years ago

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 1
    Love this 7
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Keo N.
    364
    1144
    10694

    10 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 67
    Thanks 0
    Love this 67
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Angela W.
    0
    842
    5187

    5 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 3 of 26

    Coit Tower Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Coit Tower

    Can you park in the parking lot 24/7?

    While the parking lot is on a public road that is open 24/7, please refer to the posted signs for parking restrictions.

    How much do you pay for person to go to the top?

    $10 per adult. There are also senior and children's rates.

    Is there an area to picnic nearby?

    I did notice areas that were open and there were benches around but I don't know if you can picnic there.

    Can you see the murals on your own without paying admission or taking a tour?

    You can go into the tower at the ground floor and go around and view all the murals without having to pay admission to go up the elevator I believe. Most of if not all the murals are before the line to the elevator.

    Are dogs allowed?

    Leashes-Yes. https://dogtrekker.com/yp/coit-tower-san-francisco-94133

    How much is parking in the parking lot? Thanks

    Hello Sarah, Please be advised that while street parking at the lot atop Telegraph Hill is free… 

    Hi. Is there a parking lot? Cafe/food inside/or around the building? Thanks

    Yes! Straight up to top. Lots of people coming and going. If weekday shouldn't be too bad. If weekend prob best to walk up! Keep eye out for The parrots

    Discover and go? Do you have to print tickets for coit tower?

    You can buy tickets there--no need to purchase beforehand.

    View All 9 Questions

    Review Highlights - Coit Tower

    :) You can enjoy views of Alcatraz, the golden gate bridge, the downtown area, treasure island, et.

    Mentioned in 74 reviews

    Read more highlights

    You might also consider

    Japantown - Cherry Blossom Festival vendor

    Japantown

    4.2(554 reviews)
    1.9 miLower Pacific Heights, Japantown

    Yep... another reason to LOVE SF. Culture, community, and somehow... magically clean?! Like I don't…read moreknow what spell they cast over Japantown but the usual city "aroma" is nowhere to be found lol. Just good vibes, music, anime, cosplay sightings, and me absolutely losing it over a Japanese vintage shop like it was a life event. Gifts everywhere, manga on manga on manga... I blinked and suddenly I needed everything. You can literally watch fresh udon being made, bounce between ramen spots, sip tea like you have your life together, and yes... plenty of veggie and vegan friendly options so we're all thriving. And the history? Not just cute... it's legit. This is the OLDEST Japantown in the U.S. and one of only three left, built after the 1906 earthquake when Japanese communities relocated here and made it their cultural home (Japantown Cultural District⁠). It was once a booming hub with hundreds of businesses before WWII internment basically wiped it out, and the community had to rebuild from scratch after . So yeah... what you're walking through now is resilience with really good snacks. Hit the mall, the Peace Pagoda, the paper stores (origami, stationery, art... obsessed), and all the Ghibli love. Cute AND historic... we love a neighborhood with depth.

    Love visiting this place when I'm in San Francisco. Lots of japanese shops and some great places to…read moreeat. If you're visiting San Francisco this is a place you much check out.

    Photos
    Japantown - The last of the cherry blossoms

    The last of the cherry blossoms

    Japantown - 12/28/25 FYI. Food & drink options.

    12/28/25 FYI. Food & drink options.

    Japantown - Godzilla

    See all

    Godzilla

    Palace Of Fine Arts - At Sunset

    Palace Of Fine Arts

    4.7(1.2k reviews)
    2.3 miMarina/Cow Hollow

    "You ain't nothin' but fine, fine, fine And I wish you were…read moremine, mine, mine You ain't nothin' but fine, fine, fine" (Rockpile) I just read that San Francisco ranks #2 among the most expensive U.S. cities to live. But that doesn't mean there aren't some bargains to be had if you know where to look. As a case in point, look no further than the jaw dropping outdoor grounds of the Palace of Fine Arts. You can see this magnificence for free. It was built for the 1915 Panama Pacific Exposition with a Greco-Roman soaring rotunda, looping colonnades, and 17 acres of parks, walking paths, and wetlands make it one of San Francisco's most photogenic spots. The architecture reminds me of what you see in the Gladiator movies, or in photos of ancient ruins, with Corinthian columns, sculpted figures, and grand arches. We spent an hour or so just strolling around and enjoying the beauty of what surrounded us. And it was all free of charge.

    The Palace of Fine Arts is one of the most beautiful and peaceful places in San Francisco. Whether…read moreyou're a visitor or a local, it's the perfect spot to slow down and take in the scenery. The views are stunning from every angle, with the iconic rotunda reflected in the lagoon and surrounded by beautiful architecture and lush vegetation. The lake is full of life, and it's common to see swans, ducks, geese, and other birds enjoying the water, making it feel like a hidden oasis in the middle of the city. The lagoon is known for attracting a variety of bird species throughout the year. There are plenty of grassy areas to spread out a blanket, relax with a book, enjoy a picnic, or simply soak in the atmosphere. The walking paths are easy to explore, and every turn offers another great photo opportunity. On busy days, you'll often find vendors nearby adding to the lively and welcoming environment. Whether you're looking for a peaceful morning walk, a romantic setting, or just a place to sit and enjoy nature, the Palace of Fine Arts delivers. A true San Francisco treasure that never disappoints.

    Photos
    Palace Of Fine Arts - Harmonious

    Harmonious

    Palace Of Fine Arts - Evening view

    Evening view

    Palace Of Fine Arts

    See all

    The Westerfeld House - Beautiful building- Westfield House - Manson stayed here while visiting- Tom Wolfe wrote about it in Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test

    The Westerfeld House

    5.0(3 reviews)
    2.4 miAlamo Square

    This house is incredible with an amazing history. Truly gorgeous and fun to share with people who…read morehaven't seen it before.

    "You see that mansion up there on the hill? They say Charles Manson lived there, in the top room…read moreof the house." That was my first introduction to The Westerfeld House from the drugged out property manager who used to manage my apartment building - and he was wrong (surprise!) But there is a tie to the Manson Family: One of its members lived there until he moved to Spawn Ranch. And rumor is Charles Manson did visit a few times. Tom Wolfe even wrote about The Westerfeld House in The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test calling it, "A great old shambling Gothic house, a freaking decayed giant known as 'The Russian Embassy.'" (I'm curious if one of my mom's law school friends crashed there because she was one of Ken Kesey's Merry Pranksters. It IS a small little world in which we live.) Built by a wealthy chocolatier then sold to the architect of the Palace Hotel, the Westerfeld House was built in 1889 for the then-grand sum of just under $10,000 ($27M in today's money) and is now a designated Landmark and privately owned. It housed a nightclub called "Dark Eyes" in the late 1920s just before the stock market crash then it was divided up into a boarding house in the '40s. In the '60s, Joplin and Big Brother & The Holding Company and the Grateful Dead used to hang out at The Westerfeld House. In the 1970s the founder of the church of Satan lived there (his pet lion left some deep claw marks in the ornate door frames and molding around the house). Longtime and current owner, Jim Siegel, apparently had Buddhist monks bless the house because of its provenance. I've gotten a chuckle over the years that its owner sometimes hangs hand-painted protest signs as window coverings: When Alamo Square became a huge tourist destination (it took a long time to be "discovered", surprisingly) it seemed like all the tour bus companies discovered it at once: There were eight or more busses every 5-8 minutes buzzing the park and blaring Tony Bennett's "I Left My Heart.." And Siegel hung signs that read "Get off the damn bus, walk around and SEE the city!" In so many ways, The Westerfeld House is so very representative of San Francisco! Look for the house on Fulton at Scott that looks a bit like the Addams Family mansion and you're there.

    Photos
    The Westerfeld House - Another view

    Another view

    The Westerfeld House - Corner Fulton & Scott, Alamo Square

    Corner Fulton & Scott, Alamo Square

    The Westerfeld House - Beautiful building- Westfield House

    See all

    Beautiful building- Westfield House

    Cottage Row - Sweet smelling vines

    Cottage Row

    4.1(12 reviews)
    1.8 miLower Pacific Heights, Japantown

    A quiet, cozy, off the beaten path, mini park with lovely flowers and trees in between busy areas…read more Recommend, especially if you can find parking.

    Big things comes in small packages…read more There are several mini parks in almost every neighborhood in San Francisco, and Cottage Row is a historic district (#82000983) located in Japantown that stretches along the block of Bush and Sutter streets and flanked between Webster and Fillmore streets. I would often walk to my wife's work as part of my exercise after work. I'd start from New Montgomery & Market Street all the way to Pacific Heights, which is roughly about 3 1/2 miles or so depending on the route I take. I vary my route some days and have taken different streets that are more hilly depending how I feel that particular day. On one of my many routes, I discovered this gem of a place just a block from Japantown Center. From Sutter St., there are signs posted regarding the park in front of a brick steps and pathway that stretches one block ending on Bush St. Along the path are Victorian-era houses, which adds a unique charm to the park. The park itself is well manicured with beautiful flowers, plants and even lone Redwood tree standing tall and proudly in the center. It may be small, but this mini park actually feels very spacious due to the layout and brilliant design of the park. It definitely maximizes the space without feeling cluttered and it feels very relaxing just being here. The smell of flowers and different plants provides an illusion that you are in a forest garden. I can feel my stress levels diminish as I soak in the energy of the park. Doing some research, the brick pathway along the backside of the park used to be called Japan Street due to the families living there were primarily Japanese-Americans. Sadly, they were interned during WWII after the attack on Pearl Harbor. An unfortunate time in American history that must never be forgotten and repeated. Now the park is maintained by the city, and they do a wonderful job of doing so. I can imagine the people in the neighborhood utilize this space by sitting on the benches while reading a good book; playing with their kids or grandkids; walking and playing with their dogs or enjoying a casual stroll to get some sun. Either way, it's a charming little park that is worth a visit should you be in the area.

    Photos
    Cottage Row
    Cottage Row
    Cottage Row

    See all

    49 Mile Scenic Drive - Fremont Hotel

    49 Mile Scenic Drive

    3.7(25 reviews)
    1.8 miCivic Center, Hayes Valley

    The 49 Mile Scenic Drive was created in 1938 in order to showcase the highlights of the City of San…read moreFrancisco. for the 1939 Golden Gate Exposition. It was already a convoluted route which originally began at city Hall and ended on Treasure Island. Since 1939 the route has been altered somewhat but still remains convoluted and today plagued with traffic problems and poor maintenance of signage. Specifically, the Seagull in profile with a blue background signs have been badly faded and not all are clearly visible. You will need to use the internet to get a clear description of the route. Some of the major sites along the route are City Hall, Asian Art Museum, Little Saigon, Japan Town, Union Square, China Town, Telegraph Hill, Lombard Street, Coit tower, Fishermen's Wharf, Palace of fine Arts, Golden Gate Bridge, Lake Merced, California Academy of the Sciences, Haight-Ashbury, Twin Peaks The Castro and Oracle Park. Parking at these various sites runs the range of easy to very difficult. Metered street parking is available at some locations. Due to the numerous hassles involved in trying to run the route most tourists opt for city transportation or the Hop-On, Hop-Off bus. "If you are going to San Francisco, be sure to wear some flowers in your hair..."

    A confusing route with missing signage, or else it's hidden away fairly well, since it was…read moreinstituted decades ago. The seagull that is to be your guide is pretty faded out and hard to find along the route. It was a nice drive still as tourists to meander around the outskirts of the city and see the gorgeous views before us.

    Photos
    49 Mile Scenic Drive
    49 Mile Scenic Drive
    49 Mile Scenic Drive

    See all

    Dragon's Gate - Dragon's Gate to Chinatown

    Dragon's Gate

    4.3(144 reviews)
    0.8 miChinatown, Union Square

    Dragon Gate has been part of my San Francisco story for as long as I can remember. I first saw it…read morein the mid-1970s during a visit with my parents, and it made an immediate impression on me. I still remember taking photos of it with a brand-new camera my father had just given me, not realizing at the time that it had only been completed a few years earlier, in 1970. Over time, I've come to appreciate more of its details and background. The gate was a gift from Taiwan and built in a traditional Chinese architectural style, complete with guardian lions, decorative tiles, and inscriptions symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. It marks the formal entrance to Chinatown at Grant Avenue and Bush Street, and it's a natural stopping point for visitors before heading further into the neighborhood. Nearly twenty years after that first visit, I moved to San Francisco and have been here ever since. These days, walking past the Dragon Gate feels more personal. It's less of a tourist attraction for me and more of a familiar landmark, one that quietly welcomes people into a neighborhood full of history, culture, and character.

    I've walked under the Dragon's Gate more times than I can count but I still love that moment when…read moreyou're walking up and you finally see it and suddenly you know you're in Chinatown. It sits at the edge of Grant Ave and it is a literal gateway into Chinatown. As soon as you walk past it, you are under the beautiful green tiled roofs curling along the streets with stone lions in this ornate, colorful and instantly recognizable neighborhood. The gate was a gift from Taiwan in the 1970s and every time you see it it feels special and different. It's not the largest or most beautiful gate I've seen, but I think it holds a special place for me because it's so familiar. It can look different depending on whether you visit on a bright sunny morning, or a foggy afternoon, or whether you see it under the glowing lanterns of a San Francisco night but to me it always feels familiar. No matter how many times I've been to Chinatown, I always stop here for a second before heading in. I have to take a moment to pay homage to this little spot that marks the entrance of one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in the city.

    Photos
    Dragon's Gate
    Dragon's Gate
    Dragon's Gate

    See all

    Coit Tower - landmarks - Updated September 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...