City View & Depression Era Art at Coit Tower

At the top of Telegraph Hill (map), in San Francisco’s Pioneer Park (map), stands one of the most prominent buildings of the city’s skyline – Coit Tower (map).  Along with the Golden Gate Bridge (map), and the Transamerica Pyramid, it is one of the most recognizable sights in the San Francisco.

Coit Tower in San Francisco

The art deco tower was built in 1933, with funds donated by Lillie Hitchcock Coit, after whom the tower was named.  Folklore claims that the tower was designed to look like a fire hose nozzle, and was a tribute to the firefighters of the 1906 earthquake fire.  Although this may be more urban legend than fact, the story is consistent with the quirky personality of the donor, and many people choose to believe that it’s true.

A sunny San Francisco afternoon is the perfect time for a tour of Coit Tower and its surrounding grounds.  You’ll have an expansive view of the city, the Golden Gate Bridge, and San Francisco Bay.  Just sit outside and enjoy the sun, take a walk through the flowers and enjoy the view, or bring a long your camera and line up some great city shots.

Inside the first floor of the tower are murals of depression-era art. from 26 different artists, although all done in the Diego Rivera style.  These murals of working men and women during the depression are considered some of the best art of its genre.

Depression Era Art at Coit Tower, San Francisco

Coit Tower can be a bit confusing to get to, as it is only accessible by one road, but it is definitely worth the effort!  There is a small parking lot at the top of the hill, so you may want to avoid driving.  You can get there on foot by walking two blocks (fairly steep) up Filbert or Greenwich Street from Grant Avenue.  Or, take the #39-Coit Muni bus.  This latter option is especially attractive during the summer months when traffic and parking is at its most difficult.

Coit Tower is open daily from 10 am – 6 pm.  There is no charge for entrance into the ground or the lobby level.  There is a small charge for the elevator to the top.

While I think nice weather is the very best time to visit, don’t let a little rain or fog put you off the trip.  The views are fantastic all year round (I love looking at the city shrouded in fog), and it will be much less crowded.

Photo source:  Both from wikimedia, Coit Tower, Art