Exploring Coit Tower in San Francisco: History, views & a Shrimp 'n Lobster Sighting!
- Charlotte Rygh
- Jul 8
- 3 min read
If you're looking for a fun, local way to spend a morning in San Francisco, Coit Tower is one of my favorite places to recommend–especially for families.
I recently walked up to the Greenwich Steps to the base of the tower. It's a beautiful (and steep) walk through neighborhood gardens, with plenty of shade and spots to stop and catch your breath....er or smell the roses. Quite literally! Flowers line the pathways like an enchanting secret garden. On the way up, I passed a mix of visitors and locals, including families with kids climbing together and pointing out little details along the way.
What to Expect at Coit Tower
At the top of Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower offers one of the best 360° views of San Francisco. You can see all of San Francisco Bay including the Bay Bridge, downtown, Alcatraz, Golden Gate Bridge and Marin County (my hometown) on a clear day! Point out your favorites while you're there.
Inside the base of the tower, you'll find large, colorful murals painted in the 1930's as part of the WPA (Works Progress Administration). This was a government program that funded artists during the Great Depression. You can see the struggles of that time painted on the walls from farmers, workers, shopkeepers–all filled with historical detail!
Why Families Love It
Coit Tower is a great option for families exploring San Francisco. Kids love the old elevator ride to the top (after all those stairs), and there's plenty to look at both inside and outside the tower. Just take note, the elevator is 90 years old! When I was there it was shut down for repairs. Apparently this is quite common. This only meant I had to continue walking up the stairs, which in my opinion was equally fun. Once at the top, I saw lots of families pointing out landmarks and taking in the views together. Not to mention, plotting out their next destination! YESSSSSS! So fun!
A Shrimp 'n Lobster Sighting at the Gift Shop
One of the highlights for me? Seeing Shrimp 'n Lobster's San Francisco Adventure in the Coit Tower gift shop! Shrimp and Lobster visit the Coit Tower too, and it's a proud moment every time I see local families connecting with them in real life.
If you're headed to Coit Tower, Swing by the shop–you just might spot our little travelers on the shelf.
Planning Your Visit to Coit Tower
📍Location: 1 Telegraph Hill Blvd, San Francisco, CA
🚶♀️ Tip: Climb the Greenwich Steps for a scenic route through gardens and views of the Bay. OR 🚌 Take the 39 Coit bus if you don't feel like walking. We get it, SF has some steep hills!!
🎟 Tickets: Available for purchase if you'd like to visit the top! Otherwise explore the glorious murals for free!
HOURS:
🕙 Open Daily: 10 AM - 4 PM (April - October)
10 AM - 5 PM (November - March)
Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year's Day
Coit Tower Ticket Prices 🎟
Adult $7 (Residents) $10 (non resident)
Senior. $4 (Resident) $7 (non Resident)
Youth $4 (Resident) $7 (non Resident)
Child 4 years old and under is FREE!
Check out my little video of Coit Tower!
Planning a trip to San Francisco? Explore the city with Shrimp 'n Lobster's San Francisco Adventure–packed with fun facts, historic stops, and local tips to help you get the most out of your visit!
🦀 Want to keep the learning going? Pair it with our San Francisco Bay Creature Coloring Book–a fun, educational activity for kids inspired by local marine life.
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