Golden Gate Bridge: A Symbol of San Francisco

The Golden Gate Bridge is a recognized symbol of San Francisco, and for some, of the entire United States. Few people know that we have an Odessa native to thank for this red postcard marvel.

The Golden Gate is highly beloved by filmmakers. Its spans often appear in movies even when the action takes place far from San Francisco. Not to mention the souvenirs: as they say, it’s beautiful and there are good reasons for that.

History of the Golden Gate Bridge

In the 1930s, San Francisco's transportation system began to buckle under the influx of emigrants. The city was simply not designed to handle the number of people brought in by the Gold Rush.

The only connection to Marin County was by ferry, but their capacity quickly became insufficient. The active cold current also made crossing dangerous. This, combined with overloaded ferries, created a ticking time bomb. The government had almost no choice but to redesign the city's transportation system, including a bridge. It was a very bold decision.

Who Designed the Golden Gate Bridge?

The bridge was designed by architects Irving Morrow and Joseph Strauss. Their names are listed on the memorial plaque on the south tower. However, the story is more complex — Strauss only supervised the construction, and Morrow was a consultant. The real credit goes to engineer Lev Moisseiff, an Odessa native who came to San Francisco from Riga.

The Golden Gate Bridge opened first for pedestrians and then for vehicles in 1937, holding the title of the world's longest suspension bridge for the next 27 years. Today it is part of U.S. Route 101 and California State Route 1. Driving across the bridge costs $5-6, but cyclists and pedestrians can cross for free. There are some nuances about this, but more on that below.

Unique Features and Facts about the Golden Gate Bridge

• Unique Color
  The most striking feature of the Golden Gate is not its shape but its color. Called International Orange, it was developed specifically for the bridge. This color ensures visibility even in the thick fog that often blankets the area and also makes the bridge a striking feature of San Francisco’s panorama.
• Suicide Spot
  Unfortunately, the bridge is also known as a suicide hotspot. The aesthetic of the location and the 75-meter drop to the turbulent waters below make it a grim choice for many. To combat this, phones with direct helplines and safety nets have been installed.
• Record Length
  The suspension structure, with main towers 227 meters high and a central span of 1280 meters, makes it one of the longest suspension bridges in the world.
• Popular Filming Location
  The Golden Gate Bridge frequently appears in movies and TV shows, including classics like "A View to a Kill" and "Earthquake."
• Bridge’s Name
  The bridge is named after the Golden Gate Strait, which it spans. The strait was named by Captain John Fremont in 1846 due to its resemblance to the Golden Horn in Constantinople.
• Legends and Myths
  One of the most famous myths is that the bridge is haunted by numerous ghosts, attracting ghost hunters and enthusiasts of the paranormal.

Visiting the Golden Gate Bridge

You can explore the bridge in various ways. The laziest option is by car, but it’s not as pleasant as walking or biking across it. The bridge is almost 2 kilometers long, and the views are stunning.

• Newsflash One
  The bridge's six traffic lanes adjust to accommodate the busiest directions. Automated dividers monitor and adjust the number of lanes for each direction.
• Newsflash Two
  Bike lanes are available on both sides of the bridge but follow a schedule. It’s best to check this in advance, especially during holidays or weekends.
• Newsflash Three
  On the San Francisco side, there is an exhibition pavilion with historical displays, a café, and souvenir shops. There’s also a real section of the bridge's cable: a meter in diameter, weighing 24 tons of steel wire — quite impressive.

Visiting the bridge

Getting There

You can reach the bridge by car, public transportation, or bicycle. Parking is available near the bridge, and several bus routes stop at the bridge. There is also parking and an observation deck at Battery Spencer on the north side.

Best Views

For the best photos of the Golden Gate Bridge, visit these spots:

• Battery Spencer
  A great vantage point on the north side of the bridge.
• Fort Point
  A historic site with a fantastic view of the bridge.
• Crissy Field
  A popular spot for picnics and photo sessions with a view of the bridge.

Tours and Excursions

Seeing not only the Golden Gate but all of San Francisco with maximum comfort is a mission possible!

For those wanting to learn more about the bridge and its history, various guided tours are available. American Butler offers engaging tours that include visiting the bridge, learning about its construction and significance, and taking unforgettable photos. American Butler specialists will help you choose unique routes through one of the best cities in the USA.