fort point candlelight tour

Travel Back In Time With These Unique Candlelight Tours Of Fort Point

Grab a lantern and explore San Francisco's historic Fort Point, a Civil War-era fort next to the Golden Gate Bridge.

Fort Point National Historic Site was instrumental in protecting California’s coast during the Civil War. The famous fort offers popular candlelight tours every weekend from November through February, so members of the public can truly immerse themselves in this famous SF landmark!

At 6:30pm on Saturday evenings , visitors can enjoy a 90-minute tour led by a park ranger with all light provided by hand-held lanterns . Tickets are $20 each ($12 for youth 12-17 years old) and will be released 2 weeks in advance of each tour, so be sure to set your alarm and check the calendar for your next chance at reserving a spot! These tours used to be free via a lottery system before the pandemic, but the NPS instituted fee changes in 2021, according to Funcheap .

This one-of-a-kind tour in San Francisco takes visitors through all four levels of the historic fort , including the roof. The candlelight experience adds a special perspective, helping transport you back to the look and feel of 1800s-era San Francisco.

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Fort Point National Historic Site was built for the Civil War between 1853 and 1861. It’s been hailed as the “the pride of the Pacific,” “the Gibraltar of the West Coast,” and “one of the most perfect models of masonry in America.” It was created as one of California’s most formidable defenses against foreign attack , and although it never saw combat, the fort was instrumental in deterring Confederate aggression during the Civil War.

The fort was built in the Third System fortification style , a now-obsolete defense design with three tiers of cannon casements and a sod covering to absorb enemy fire. At one point the fort housed 102 cannons , plus “hotshot” furnaces used to heat the cannon balls, with the idea of setting enemy ships on fire upon impact.

The fort was almost demolished in order to build the Golden Gate Bridge in 1933, but Chief Engineer Joseph Strauss ultimately lobbied to preserved it. In 1970, the structure became a National Historic Site, and it’s now available for the public to visit.

Don’t forget to reserve a spot on one of Fort Point’s candlelight tours . You’ll find Fort Point at 201 Marine Drive in San Francisco.

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Fort Point National Historic Site Tours

Fort Point National Historic Site

From its vantage point overlooking the spectacular Golden Gate, Fort Point National Historic Site defended the San Francisco Bay following California's Gold Rush through World War II. Its beautifully arched casemates exhibit the art of third system brick masonry which interact gracefully with the Golden Gate Bridge.

Need to Know

The Candlelight Tour explores all four levels of the fort including the roof (approximately 76 steps). There are no elevators inside this historic structure built in 1853, therefore this tour is not accessible. If you require other accommodations, please reach out to a ranger upon booking so we can make reasonable accommodations.

The tour begins promptly. Please arrive 15 minutes early to ensure enough time to check in and use restroom facilities before the tour begins. Late arrivals will not be permitted to enter the fort after the tour begins. Confirm your tour start time on your ticket as there are tours at 6:30 and 7:00 pm.

There are no restrooms inside of Fort Point. Please arrive 15 minutes before tour start time to check-in with a ranger and use the restroom located outside, adjacent to the parking lot, before tour begins. 

Free parking is available directly outside of Fort Point. Do not leave any items or valuables inside of your vehicle! San Francisco has a high rate of car break-ins. The National Park Service is not responsible for damaged or stolen property.

Cell phone service is unreliable inside Fort Point. Please print your tickets OR save them on your phone prior to your arrival.

Conditions inside Fort Point may be dark, cold, and damp. The weather can be extremely windy. Dress like an onion, in layers and wear warm clothing including gloves. Visitors are encouraged to bring a pack to carry extra outerwear. Because of high wind conditions visitors are cautioned to hold on to hats or loose accessories when on the roof.

Water and warm beverages are encouraged and must be in a closed and sealed container. Eating and open lid containers will not be allowed inside the historic structure. It is recommended visitors consume snacks/food prior to their arrival.

The stairways may be slippery due to rain and damp conditions. Wear shoes with good traction, hold on to railings when available, and watch your step.

Booking Windows

Tickets are available two weeks in advance at 7:00 am Pacific Time. Example: On Saturday December 4 at 7:00am PST, tickets will be available for the tour on Saturday, December 18th.

Changes and Cancellations

No refunds within 24 hours of tour. No shows are non-refundable.

Contact Information

Mailing address.

999 Marine Dr San Francisco CA 94129

Phone Number

415-561-4391

Available Tours and Tickets

• Fort Point Candlelight Tour

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You are likely to award this National Historic Site as having the most astonishing view of the Golden Gate Bridge . A Civil War-era brick fort, it lies directly below the southern end of the span. Check for tours, especially candlelight evening ones, cannon drills, and annual Civil War reenactments. Interestingly, no military action ever occurred here. Completed in 1861, Fort Point never saw action during the Civil War, and the advent of rifled artillery soon rendered this type of fortification obsolete. During construction of the Golden Gate Bridge, Chief Engineer Joseph Strauss redesigned the bridge to preserve the fortress as a “fine example of the mason’s art.”

Tips and Highlights

• During the dark winter months, the Candlelight Tour of Fort Point is a popular guided program that allows visitors to experience the fort in a new light. This evening tour will maze through the shadows of the historic structure by candlelight and visitors will see the glimmering lights of the Golden Gate Bridge towering up above them. Registration required.  Reserve your spot.
• Acquaint yourself with the fort’s Civil War heyday through the guns, cannon, uniforms, and photos on display.
• Discover the fort by the beauty of candlelight on a ranger-led winter-night tour.
• In spring, summer, and fall, rangers demonstrate how to catch crabs from the pier.
• Explore the powder magazine, kitchen, officers’ quarters, and soldiers’ barracks.
• Take the spiral granite staircase to the top barbette tier for a unique below-the-bridge view.
• Park at the Marine Drive lot.

Fort Point Store

During the War of 1812, the British landed in Chesapeake Bay and marched straight into the nation’s capital. To prevent future embarrassments, President Madison ordered a new system of forts (known as the Third System) to guard the nation’s seaports. Completed in 1861 at a cost of $2.8 million, Fort Point was the only “Third System” fort built on the Pacific Coast.

During the Civil War, 140 soldiers manned Fort Point, which was armed with 65 heavy artillery cannons, four flank howitzers, and five coehorn and six siege mortars. Although Confederate forces never attacked the fort, its walls could have theoretically withstood the impact of 10,000 cannonballs before giving way.

However, the invention of rifled cannons—capable of breaching brick walls—rendered the structure vulnerable. After the Civil War, Fort Point was intermittently garrisoned, and saw its last active duty in World War II.

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Fort Point National Historic Site

Fort Point is a signature landmark located beneath the Golden Gate Bridge southern approach.

Golden Gate Region

Military & Historic Site , Museum

History , Education , Kids & Family

Top Amenities

Free Parking , Golden Gate View , Restrooms , Muni Bus-accessible

When Alfred Hitchcock thinks you’re a star, you’ve got to be doing something right!

Such is the reputation of Presidio’s Fort Point National Historic Site, which made a memorable cameo in Hitchcock’s 1958 masterpiece, Vertigo . Built beginning in 1853 at the height of California’s Gold Rush, the structure was later utilized in the Civil War, then again in World War II before ultimately becoming a National Park Site in 1970.

Today, Fort Point remains a popular tourist destination thanks to its unique history, Third System coast defense architectural style, and word-class scenic views.

Discover the legacy of Fort Point, a storied fortress guarding the entrance to San Francisco Bay, through a captivating new exhibit. Delve into its strategic design and unravel the evolving symbolism within its casemates. Each exhibit offers a distinct viewpoint on the fort’s history and relevance.

Exhibit Areas:

Sally Port:  

Discover the ingenious design of Fort Point’s entrance, strategically constructed to limit enemy access and bolster defense capabilities. Visitors can envision the scene as soldiers stand vigilant atop elevated banquets, ready to defend the fort if needed.  

Guard Room:  

Delve into the multifaceted significance of Fort Point throughout history, from its role in military conquest to its status as a symbol of California’s early history and contemporary community hub.  

Magazine 1: Why Here?  

Explore the strategic importance of Fort Point in controlling access to San Francisco Bay and its vital resources, tracing its history from the Ohlone peoples to Spanish colonization and beyond.  

Magazine 2: Who Worked Here?  

Learn about the diverse array of individuals who contributed to Fort Point’s construction and operation, including soldiers, civilians, and marginalized groups like African American cooks during the Civil War.  

Magazine 3: Life at Fort Point  

Gain insight into the daily routines and challenges faced by soldiers stationed at Fort Point during the Civil War, where the harsh environment posed a greater threat than Confederate forces.  

Casemates 1–3: A Changing Symbol  

Trace the evolution of Fort Point’s significance over time, from a symbol of federal strength during the Civil War to its transformation into a cherished landmark and preservation effort in modern times.  

Archway Exhibits: Then and Now  

Reflect on the spirit of service and duty embodied by those who served at Fort Point throughout history, as well as the ongoing efforts of volunteers, park rangers, and preservationists to maintain its legacy for future generations.  

Getting to Fort Point National Historic Site

Fort Point National Historic Site, 201 Marine Drive, San Francisco, CA 94129

By Public Transit

Muni Route: 28 19th Avenue

Stop: Golden Gate Bridge Parking Lot

By Presidio Go Shuttle

There is no direct shuttle service to the fort. To minimize your walk, head to Presidio Transit Center and take a 43 Masonic Muni to Lombard Street & Divisadero Street then transfer for free to an outbound 28 19th Avenue Muni bus and take it two stops to the Golden Gate Bridge parking lot.

Limited free spots are available at the Golden Gate Bridge lot. Additional parking can also be found near the Warming Hut Park Store and Café. If you’re up for a walk, enjoy features like Presidio Tunnel Tops and Crissy Field by strolling to Fort Point from our Main Post area via the stunning Bay Trail.

Why We Love Fort Point National Historic Site

On any given day, visitors may encounter “soldiers” taking part in a Civil War reenactment or glimpse a romantic proposal taking place. It’s all part of the magic at Fort Point National Historic Site, where tourists, hikers, and history buffs alike regularly gather to learn and explore.

Accessibility

Fort Point offers numerous amenities, including accessible parking, on-site restrooms, accessible entrances, assistive listening devices (ALDs) and open captioning materials.

Insider Tip

Fort Point is a gorgeous place to visit during the day, but for a whole new vision of this historic structure, consider booking a spot on one of our popular Candlelight Tours. Led by a park ranger, these 90-minute excursions offer a fun, fascinating opportunity for visitors ages 12 and up to see all four levels of the fort (including the roof!) from a fresh yet shadowy perspective. To learn more and purchase tickets, visit www.recreation.gov .

Frequently Asked Questions

Fort Point National Historic Site is open Thursday through Monday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The official address for Fort Point National Historic site is 201 Marine Drive.

Service dogs are allowed at Fort Point. Additionally, dogs on leash are allowed on Fort Point lands but not within the historic fort.

Fort Point sits under the Golden Gate Bridge’s southern exposure. To access the fort from Golden Gate Bridge Plaza, take the steps down to the Battery East trailhead and follow the road to Fort Point National Historic Site from there.

No. Entrance to Fort Point is free, though some guided tours and other special events may require ticket purchase for entry. Learn more here .

The most famous example is Alfred Hitchcock’s “ Vertigo ,” though the list is far longer than that! Other examples of films to feature Fort Point include 1947’s “ Dark Passage ” and 1967’s “ Point Blank .”

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Last updated: August 1, 2023

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Contact info, mailing address:.

Fort Point National Historic Site 201 Fort Mason San Francisco, CA 94123

415-561-4959 United States Park Police Dispatch: Non-Emergency: 415-561-5505 Emergency: 415-561-5656

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