Is the Golden Gate Bridge Free?
What is free
The east sidewalk, 5:00 am to 6:30 pm in winter and 9:00 pm in summer. Both sidewalks for cyclists, 24 hours. The Welcome Center with the 1933 test tower. Battery East, the Golden Gate Overlook, Crissy Field, Fort Point and Vista Point. The City Guides tour on Wednesdays and Saturdays from the Strauss statue. The PresidiGo shuttle. Nobody at the bridge will ask you for money on foot. The walking page covers the sidewalk.
What is not free
Driving south into the city, which is tolled electronically with no booth; the toll page explains payment. Parking at the Welcome Center. The Muni 28 bus and the Sausalito ferry. A bike rental at the Wharf. And the three paid ways of seeing the bridge from somewhere else: the cruises beneath it, the guided rides over it and the seaplane above it, all on the all-tours page.
The free City Guides tour is the best value at the bridge, and the Round House café coffee is the only thing I ever pay for on a walk.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a ticket to walk the Golden Gate Bridge?
No. Walk up to the east sidewalk and go. Hours by season are on the walking page.
Is the Welcome Center free?
Yes, open daily 9:00 am to 6:00 pm with the test tower and exhibits. More on the things-to-do page.
Is there a toll for pedestrians or cyclists?
No. The toll is for southbound cars only. See how the toll works.