Overview

Hype:

Fort Point National Historic Site represents a key chapter in U.S. coastal defense history on the West Coast. Constructed of brick with multiple tiers of casemates, it reflects the Third System of American fortifications intended to protect major harbors. Its strategic position at the entrance of San Francisco Bay highlights the military importance of the region during the mid-1800s.

Despite becoming obsolete as artillery technology advanced, Fort Point survived when many similar forts were abandoned or destroyed. During the 1930s, engineers altered the design of the Golden Gate Bridge to preserve the structure rather than demolish it, an unusual decision that underscored its historical and architectural value.

Today, Fort Point is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and serves as a cultural and educational destination. Visitors can explore the interior of the fort, attend ranger programs, and enjoy close-up views of the Golden Gate Bridge, making it both a historical site and a scenic landmark.

Time:

Fees: None

Recommended Ages:

	0-3
	4-11
	12-19
	20-49
	50-69
	70+

Recommended Months to Visit:

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Links: https://www.nps.gov/fopo/index.htm
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fort_Point_National_Historic_Site

Location

Closest City or Region: San Francisco, California

Coordinates: 37.810612, -122.477090

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February 4, 2010 Trip Report

By Jeremy Dye

Trip Members

Jeremy Dye, Andra Pathakis, Andrew Van Every, Chris Ghormley, Michael Burns, Mo'oud Nasr, Reed Crosby, Richard Christiansen, Trace Farmer, Travis Gerber, ,

Story

We visited the Golden Gate Bridge while we were in San Francisco for the EERI Balsa Tower competition.

Pictures