One of the most iconic images of the United States is the Golden Gate Bridge. This elegant span with the reddish color is probably the most photographed bridge in the world. It is an impressive site, whether shown at sunset, lit up at night or in the midst of swirling fog. Stretching over the San Francisco Bay, it is a magnet for tourists and there are other interesting attractions to visit, including forts and the Alcatraz Island Visitor Center. The former prison can be reached by ferry from Pier 41.
The bridge is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, an ecological reserve and educational resource, containing 33 species, either threatened or endangered. The Crissy Field Center there runs programs for the local community and contains a workshop, laboratories and library.
The bridge began construction in 1933 and opened in 1937 at a cost of more than $26 million. At that time, it was the world’s longest suspension bridge span and it is still the second longest in the USA. Celebrations for the opening continued for a week, starting with people walking or roller skating over the bridge before automobiles were allowed. The Golden Gate Bridge charges a toll and has six lanes and walkways at either side. The total length measures 8,981 feet (2,737 m). Some people voiced the opinion that the project was an impossible task but the bridge has won engineering awards and is an internationally known landmark.
Weather conditions can get pretty rough in the Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge has only been forced to close on three occasions. This is remarkable and each time was because of extreme wind gusts. As with all tourist destinations, there is a wide range of merchandise available with pictures of the bridge. It’s possible to buy playing cards, t-shirts, teddy bears, mousepads, prints and posters.
The official website has an online store with a line in commemorative goods for the Golden Gate Bridge. There is a tie, a screensaver and books about the history and construction of the bridge. In the anniversary year of 2007, a special technical book was published, titled The Golden Gate Bridge Report of the Chief Engineer Volume II. This contains interesting facts about the engineering feat. There are also collectible ornaments that were released in 2007 that can be bought separately or as a set. These are brass plaques, commemorating the 70th year.