Jul 17, 2024 · From its vantage point overlooking the spectacular Golden Gate, Fort Point defended the San Francisco Bay following California's Gold Rush through World War II. Its beautifully arched casemates display the art of 3rd system brick masonry and interacts gracefully with the Golden Gate Bridge.

Fort Point, known historically as the Castillo de San Joaquín (Spanish for "Saint Joachim's Castle") is a masonry seacoast fortification located on the southern side of the Golden Gate at the entrance to San Francisco Bay.

Today, Fort Point remains a popular tourist destination thanks to its unique history, Third System coast defense architectural style, and word-class scenic views. Exhibits Discover the legacy of Fort Point, a storied fortress guarding the entrance to …

Feb 9, 2021 · Nestled below the arch at the south end of the Golden Gate Bridge is Fort Point. Built in a style similar to Fort Sumter, this is the only brick fort of its type in the western US. The fort is an iconic symbol of San Francisco's early US history.

Plan on spending at least a few hours at the Fort, exploring the scenic Golden Gate Bay. If time permits, you could take a longer hike to the Bridge, participate in our Junior Ranger program, or consider attending a ranger-led program to learn more about the Fort. Pre-trip planning is …

Apr 25, 2023 · From its vantage point overlooking the spectacular Golden Gate, Fort Point protected San Francisco harbor from Confederate & foreign attack during & after the U.S. Civil War. Its beautifully arched casemates display the art of …

Jul 23, 2013 · The only fortification of its type on the Pacific coast, Fort Point stands beneath the soaring Golden Gate Bridge. Video orientations, guided tours, self-guiding materials, exhibits, and publication sales are available. Visit the Fort Point site …

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.

Jun 3, 2021 · The days that Fort Point is open change on a seasonal basis. Please check our Operating Hours & Seasons page for the latest information. The weather at Fort Point is almost always cool, damp and windy; especially in the summer. So …

Mar 20, 2025 · The only example of a casemated Third System fort completed on the Pacific Coast, Fort Point is shaped in a modified rectangle with a center parade and two bastions and has only one entrance on the land front.1