Address
Golden Gate Bridge,
Sausalito, CA 94965
United States
Customer Service
Phone: 415-921-5858 (general)
Phone: 1-877-229-8655 or 415-486-8655 (Bay Area FasTrak)
Phone: 511 or 415-455-2000 (transit information)
Phone: 415-455-2000 (lost & found – ferry)
Email: bridgecomments@goldengate.org (feedback)
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About Golden Gate Bridge
A true example of a wonderful mix of beauty and practicality is the Golden Gate Bridge. A suspension bridge in San Francisco, California, it got its name because it spans the one-mile strait called Golden Gate that connects San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean. It is 2,737 meters long and is made of steel. It is said that if the cable used within the Golden Gate Bridge could be straightened out, it could circumference the equator three times.
The bridge is operated by the Golden Gate Bridge Highway and Transportation District, as are the Golden Gate transit buses and the Golden Gate Ferry, both public transit systems that serve the San Francisco area. It is estimated that over 40 million people use the bridge each year, either on vehicles or using the public transit system. It is really crowded on most days because not just is the bridge used as a link between the two sides but it is also a very popular tourist destination and one would find commuters jostling for space with selfie stick armed tourists and skaters and bicyclers.
The welcome center houses historical information and touristy merchandise that is a must see stop for visitors. There are many exhibits and information services on offer. One could opt for a guided tour and take in details of the history, science and engineering of the Golden Gate bridge or enjoy a snack and drink at the Round House Cafe or Bridge Cafe.
Since the San Francisco Bay area is prone to earthquakes, the Golden Gate Bridge has seismic retrofit measures and structural modifications in place to strengthen foundations. It also has a unique suicide deterrent system in the form of a safety net to deter people from committing suicide by jumping off the bridge. The safety net is designed in such a way that it does not hamper the appearance of the bridge or the views that one can see from it. It merges in with the grey steel and does not hamper operations or maintenance of the bridge.
Vehicles using the bridge have to pay a toll rate ranging from $8 for a motorcycle to $48 for a 5 axle vehicle. Carpoolers can go across for $5. The ferry schedule and fares are available online. You will find the timing along with the origin and destination of Sausalito Ferry, Larkspur Ferry, Tiburon Ferry and Giants Ferry. Tickets for ferry can be purchased through the ticket vending machines. Some ferry tickets can also be obtained online. Children, seniors and disabled riders enjoy reduced fares. If you are reaching the terminal with your automobile, there are parking lots where you can safely park your vehicle.
As for toll payment when crossing the bridge, the most preferred method is FasTrak. Tolls are automatically deducted from the prepaid balance. You also have pay-as-you-go option. For more information or queries on schedule, tickets, parking, or others, reach the Golden Gate Bridge support.
