There is a new option for locals to play tourist in San Francisco.
For the first time ever,the Golden Gate Bridge District is offering guided tours of the Golden Gate Bridge.
You can walk alongside people from around the world as they learn about the history of the second most recognized structure on the planet. (Second only to the Eiffel Tower).
The hour-long tour is part of the bridge's 75th anniversary celebration.
The Golden Gate Bridge District is offering both day and night tours. The day tours run hourly and cost $12.95. The night tour starts at 8:15 p.m. and costs $21.95. The benefit of the night tour is a sunset over the water as you wait for things to begin, PLUS you are the only ones allowed on the bridge at night (so you have the place to yourself).
The tour pitch goes like this: "Hear fascinating stories of danger, challenge, and ingenuity about the building of the Bridge on personally guided walking tours."
You can get tickets at this url.
Because of the bridge noise and wind, the guide uses a microphone and everyone in the tour is given a head set so they can hear what is said.
You will be able to tell the locals from the tourist by the clothing option. The tourists will likely be in shorts while the natives will be the ones with scarves and gloves.
The tour also has an add on option that is pretty cool. There is a chroma-key wall set up at the Round House where you can don a hard hat and vest and pretend you are climbing the bridge.
Two 5x7 photos will cost you $20. Our own morning crew of Christie Smith and Steve Wheelock posed for the photos to the right and below.