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If you’re exploring the Bay Area on a San Francisco private tour, there’s one hidden gem you don’t want to miss—Fort Point, nestled directly beneath the Golden Gate Bridge’s southern anchorage. It’s where Civil War-era history meets jaw-dropping scenery, and it’s included as a highlight on many of our small group sightseeing tours in San Francisco.
Let’s dive into why Fort Point is so much more than just a great photo stop!
Back in the 1850s, during the height of the California Gold Rush, San Francisco was booming. To protect its rapidly growing port and wealth, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers began constructing a massive coastal defense—Fort Point.
Built between 1853 and 1861
Designed in the classic “Third System” military style
Nicknamed the “Gibraltar of the West Coast”
Created to defend against potential naval attacks
Though its cannons were never fired in battle, the fort stood ready through the Civil War, offering a formidable military presence at the mouth of the Golden Gate.
When the Golden Gate Bridge was being designed in the 1930s, Fort Point was nearly demolished. Thankfully, Chief Engineer Joseph Strauss recognized the architectural significance of the brick fortress and altered his bridge plans to preserve it.
A special arch-shaped steel span was designed to carry the bridge over the historic structure without damaging it—a testament to both preservation and innovation.
Today, standing in the Fort’s open courtyard and looking up at the underside of the bridge is an awe-inspiring experience you won’t find anywhere else in the city.
A visit to Fort Point offers a unique blend of military history, architectural beauty, and panoramic Bay views.
Here’s what you can explore on your visit:
Brick Archways & Spiral Staircases: Wander through the three-level masonry structure with vaulted ceilings and arched hallways
Original Cannons & Exhibits: Learn about 19th-century military life and see replicas of Civil War artillery
Rooftop Views: Head to the top of the fort for stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Marin Headlands, and Alcatraz Island
National Park Ranger Programs: Free guided tours and living history demonstrations (check schedule onsite)
Fort Point had several military roles even after its original purpose faded:
World War I: Renovated for potential use as a military detention facility (though never used as such)
1920s: Used by the Presidio for military trade schools and officer housing
World War II: Staffed again to protect the Bay from submarine threats
Fort Point has also made its mark in Hollywood. It appeared in Alfred Hitchcock’s 1958 classic “Vertigo”, becoming one of San Francisco’s most cinematic locations.
Fort Point’s survival was never guaranteed. After World War II, efforts to demolish it returned. But a group of passionate veterans and engineers fought to preserve the site’s legacy.
1959: The Fort Point Museum Association was formed
1970: Fort Point was officially designated a National Historic Site by the National Park Service
Thanks to their work, we can all enjoy this remarkable window into San Francisco’s past today.
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Location: End of Marine Drive, Presidio of San Francisco
Included in our San Francisco Jeep Tours
Hours:
Open Friday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day
Fort exterior is accessible daily
Admission: Free (no tickets required)
For the latest updates, visit the National Park Service Fort Point page.
Seeing Fort Point on your own is one thing—but experiencing it as part of a private San Francisco Jeep tour? That’s a whole different level of awesome.
Here’s what makes it special:
Expert local guides who bring history to life
Open-air Jeeps for panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and coastline
Stops for epic photos, including Fort Point’s rooftop with bridge views
Seamless access without the parking headaches
Custom routes—combine Fort Point with other highlights like Lombard Street, Palace of Fine Arts, and the Presidio
Want to go north of the bridge instead? We also offer Golden Gate Bridge sightseeing tours that continue on to Muir Woods National Monument.
Over 7 million bricks were used to build the fort
The bridge arch above Fort Point is 420 feet wide
Fort Point has appeared in multiple movies and TV shows
It’s the only Third System fort west of the Mississippi
One of the best places for bridge photography in San Francisco
What’s the best way to see Fort Point?
A private guided tour of San Francisco in an open-air Jeep is a fantastic way to explore Fort Point while also seeing other top attractions.
Is Fort Point family-friendly?
Absolutely! Kids love exploring the old staircases, tunnels, and cannons. Just be sure to keep an eye on them on the upper levels.
Can I take photos at Fort Point?
Yes—and you’ll want to. The rooftop is one of the best Golden Gate Bridge photo spots in the city.
How long should I plan to spend at Fort Point?
Most guests spend 30–60 minutes here as part of a half-day city tour.
Ready to see Fort Point and the Golden Gate Bridge up close?
Join us for a one-of-a-kind, small-group sightseeing adventure in San Francisco. Whether you’re a history buff, a photographer, or just in it for the views, Fort Point is a can’t-miss highlight.
Book your San Francisco Jeep Tour today and experience this historic gem in unforgettable style.
Fort Point offers one of the most dramatic, up-close views of the Golden Gate Bridge — and a surprising amount of history tucked right beneath it.
Fort Point is one of San Francisco’s most dramatic and underrated historic sites—sitting directly beneath the Golden Gate Bridge with sweeping bay views and rich military history. Here’s what visitors usually want to know.
Quick intro: As close to the Golden Gate Bridge as it gets.
Fort Point sits directly beneath the south end of the Golden Gate Bridge at the mouth of San Francisco Bay, within the Presidio and Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
Quick intro: One of the city’s best free historic stops.
Fort Point National Historic Site is generally free to visit, though hours can vary by season. Always check the National Park Service website for current information before you go.
Quick intro: A favorite stop for dramatic photos.
Yes. Many Private San Francisco Jeep Tours drive to or near Fort Point, allowing for dramatic photo stops with the Golden Gate Bridge towering overhead when conditions and schedules permit.
Quick intro: History, architecture, and epic views in one place.
Visitors can tour the brick fort, learn about its Civil War history, walk through arched corridors, and enjoy some of the most unique views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Pacific entrance to San Francisco Bay.
Bottom line: Fort Point delivers a rare perspective on the Golden Gate Bridge while offering a quiet, history-rich stop that feels worlds away from the city—despite being right beneath it.
Fort Point delivers one of the most dramatic Golden Gate Bridge views, making it perfect to pair with nearby coastal icons.