Golden Gate National Recreation Area, CA
The Golden Gate Bridge (Adobe stock image)
By Nushin Huq
Between 2 Pines Magazine
5/29/20, 1:06 AM
The word San Francisco immediately conjures up images of the Golden Gate Bridge. No visit to the city would be complete without a stop at this landmark. The Golden Gate Recreation Area is a 60 mile area that includes Muir Woods and Alcatraz Island. This guide focuses on the bridge.
WHAT TO SEE
Check out the visitors center and gift shop. There are restrooms there. Outside of the center, there are some outdoor exhibits that chronicle the history of the bridge as well as walking paths that give visitors a different perspective of the bridge. The main attraction is walking across the bridge.
WHERE TO STAY
San Francisco is a pretty pricey city, so be on the lookout for deals on hotels and rentals.
WHERE TO EAT
The Round House Cafe overlooks the Golden Gate Bridge and is located near the visitor center.
BEST HIKES FOR FAMILIES
Crossing the 1.7 miles bridge is a fun walk for visitors, but a number a trails also connect to the bridge. These include the California Coastal .Trail, the Bay Area Ridge Trail, the Bay Trail , and the Presidio Promenade
BEST TIPS FOR KIDS
Currently, there's no junior ranger program at the Golden Gate NRA, but you can get a cancellation for your National Park passport. Kids usually enjoy walking on the bridge and feeling the vibrations. Just remember how much energy your children have before you decide if you want to walk all the way across or just part of the way.