Coit Tower and Telegraph Hill – Art, History, and Epic Views

Coit Tower and Telegraph Hill – Soak in Stunning Skyline Views on a San Francisco Private Tour

Discover panoramic vistas, vibrant murals, and San Francisco history at the iconic Coit Tower — the crown jewel of Telegraph Hill on a private San Francisco Jeep Tour.

San Francisco’s skyline has its share of showstoppers, but few offer a 360-degree feast for the eyes quite like Coit Tower perched on Telegraph Hill. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong local, this landmark delivers jaw-dropping views, rich history, and hidden surprises — all rolled into one unforgettable stop.

Ready to explore? Buckle up for a ride through time, art, and panoramic beauty.

What Is Coit Tower and Why Should You Visit?

At 210 feet tall, Coit Tower stands as a concrete beacon of civic pride and artistic expression. It’s one of the top attractions on our San Francisco private sightseeing tour, and for good reason.

Here’s what makes it special:

• • Unmatched views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Bay Bridge, and beyond

  • Vibrant murals painted by local artists during the Great Depression

  • Lush gardens and staircases weaving through Telegraph Hill

  • Home to San Francisco’s wild parrot population

  • A beloved local legend, Lillie Hitchcock Coit, who made it all possible

Whether you hike up the famous Filbert or Greenwich Steps or roll up in one of our open-air Jeeps, Coit Tower is a can’t-miss highlight of any custom San Francisco tour.

Scenic Views from the Base — No Elevator Ride Needed

On our small group sightseeing Jeep tour, we won’t go up the elevator due to time constraints. But no worries — the viewing area at the base of Coit Tower in Pioneer Park still offers absolutely stunning, unobstructed vistas:

• • Golden Gate Bridge in all its rust-red glory

  • Fisherman’s Wharf and waterfront neighborhoods

  • Alcatraz and Angel Island surrounded by the sparkling Bay

  • The Bay Bridge and the city’s ever-evolving skyline

The area around the tower offers plenty of photo-worthy spots without the wait or fee to ride up.

Pro Tip: Visit early morning or just before sunset for the best light and fewer crowds.

A Brief History: Who Was Lillie Hitchcock Coit?

The story behind Coit Tower is just as fascinating as the views it offers.

• • Lillie Hitchcock Coit, a wealthy San Francisco socialite, was passionate about the city — and even more passionate about its firefighters.

  • At age 15, she reportedly helped a volunteer engine company get up a hill during a fire. That moment sparked a lifelong devotion.

  • When she passed in 1929, she left one-third of her estate to “add beauty to the city I have always loved.”

  • The result? Coit Tower and a bronze firefighter statue in Washington Square.

Though many say Coit Tower looks like a fire hose nozzle in honor of her firefighting ties, architects denied any symbolism — happy coincidence or intentional tribute, you decide.

Inside the Tower: New Deal-Era Murals with a Message

Step inside the tower and you’ll be greeted by vibrant fresco murals covering the walls of the rotunda. Painted in 1934 as part of the Public Works of Art Project, these works of art were created by 26 different local artists.

The murals showcase:

• • Working-class life in Depression-era San Francisco

  • Striking political commentary on capitalism, labor, and equality

  • Bold artistic techniques influenced by Mexican muralists like Diego Rivera

Some of the imagery was considered controversial at the time — so much so that the tower briefly closed to censor certain elements.

Want to see more? Full mural tours are available for groups of 4–6 people (fees apply), giving access to restricted areas and deeper insight into each artist’s work.

Getting There: How to Reach Coit Tower on Telegraph Hill

While our San Francisco Jeep Tour gets you to the top with ease, adventurous visitors can take the scenic route via one of Telegraph Hill’s iconic staircases:

The Filbert Street Steps

• • Begins at Sansome Street and climbs through lush gardens and historic homes

  • Offers glimpses of the wild parrots of Telegraph Hill

  • Ends at the foot of Coit Tower in Pioneer Park

The Greenwich Street Steps

• • Runs parallel to Filbert on the hill’s north side

  • A quieter, less crowded path with bench nooks perfect for a rest and a view

Both routes are charming, steep, and filled with surprises at every turn. Be sure to bring your camera — and maybe a water bottle.

Did You Know? Telegraph Hill’s Famous Parrots

One of the quirkiest and most beloved features of Telegraph Hill is its flock of wild parrots.

• These red-masked parakeets have lived here for decades

• Thought to have originated from released or escaped pets

• Made famous by the book and documentary The Wild Parrots of Telegraph Hill

Spotting these feathered locals adds a touch of magic to any visit. Listen for their squawks near the gardens or treetops — especially around the Filbert Steps.

Nearby Café and Freebies

While you’re soaking in the views, stop by the Coit Tower Café, open daily from 9:30 AM to 6 PM. They serve up:

• • Coffee and espresso

  • Fresh pastries and paninis

  • Pizza slices and frozen yogurt

Note: Food and drink aren’t allowed inside the tower, so enjoy your snacks before heading in.

Also, good news: Access to the ground floor, murals, and gift shop is free. You only pay if you choose to ride the elevator to the top (ticket prices range from $4–$11 per person).

Movie Moments: Coit Tower on the Big Screen

This scenic tower isn’t just a hit with tourists — Hollywood loves it too. Coit Tower has been featured in:

• • Dr. Doolittle (1998)

  • Homeward Bound II (1996)

  • Sister Act 2 (1993)

  • The Enforcer (1976)

  • The House on Telegraph Hill (1951)

See if you can spot it on the silver screen.

FAQs: Planning Your Visit to Coit Tower

What are Coit Tower’s hours?
Daily from 10 AM to 6 PM. Last elevator ticket sold at 5:30 PM.

Is Coit Tower wheelchair accessible?
Yes — the elevator and base viewing areas are accessible.

How much does it cost to go up?
Elevator access costs between $4–$11 depending on age and residency. Base access is free.

Are guided tours available?
Yes. Small group docent-led mural tours are available for $5–$10 per person.

Where can I park?
Very limited parking is available at the tower. Public transportation or walking is recommended — or book a San Francisco private tour and let us do the driving.

Experience Coit Tower on a San Francisco Private Jeep Tour

Want to visit Coit Tower without the stress of parking, steep hills, or crowded buses? Hop into one of our open-air Jeeps for a fully guided, small-group adventure that hits all the best sights — including this local gem.

• Custom itineraries

• Expert local guides

• Amazing views and photo ops

• Comfort and fun all rolled into one

Ready to See the City from the Top?

Whether you’re chasing skyline views, exploring hidden stairways, or marveling at New Deal-era murals, Coit Tower and Telegraph Hill offer an unforgettable San Francisco experience.

Book your private San Francisco Jeep Tour today and experience Coit Tower like a local — no steep climb required.

Learn More:

9 Fun Facts about Coit Tower

The Enchanting Tale and 17 fun facts about San Francisco’s Wild Parrots on Telegraph Hill