Independence Day, July 4th

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SFMTA.com/July4

Golden Gate Bridge and MTA bus

San Francisco will host a special Fourth of July celebration this year featuring fireworks launched from the Golden Gate Bridge to commemorate America's 250th anniversary. Large crowds are expected throughout the waterfront, Pier 39, Fisherman’s Wharf, Marina and Presidio areas.

The Golden Gate Bridge is expected to be closed for up to 3 hours. Travelers will be directed to through the East Bay, using the Bay Bridge (I-80) and Richmond-San Rafael Bridge (I-580).

Local businesses are encouraged to welcome visitors and consider special promotions, extended hours or other offerings for residents and guests enjoying the holiday festivities. Visitors are encouraged to support local restaurants, shops and attractions while in the city.

Everyone attending should plan ahead, use public transit, walk or bike when possible, and be respectful of neighborhoods, businesses and fellow attendees. Please follow all parking regulations, dispose of trash properly and follow directions from public safety personnel to help ensure a safe and enjoyable celebration for all.

We strongly encourage using public transit, walking and biking to get in and around San Francisco during this event. It’s an easier and safer option for everyone planning to attend or for those wanting to move around the city to various events. July 4 is always one of the busiest days of the year at San Francisco’s waterfront. This year’s fireworks location near the Golden Gate Bridge means traffic exiting the Presidio and surrounding neighborhoods will be significantly impacted. Expect long lines, delays and crowding both coming and going, similar to a major concert venue. 

Getting There

Up-to-date traffic impacts will soon be on our Travel and Transit page.

Transit Service

  • Additional Muni shuttles will provide service to the fireworks celebration. 
    • Marina Fireworks Shuttle
      Serves: Powell BART, Geary and O'Farrell (from Van Ness to Stockton), Van Ness (from Geary & O'Farell to Chestnut), Marina District at Chestnut/Fillmore.
    • Pier 39 Embarcadero Fireworks Shuttle
      Serves: North Point/Kearny, F Market & Wharves stops on Embarcadero, Embarcadero Station
    • Pier 39 Caltrain Fireworks Shuttle
      Serves North Point/Kearny, F Market & Wharves stops on Embarcadero, Ferry Building, Caltrain at 4th/King 
  • Take Fireworks Shuttles or 28 19th Avenue. Space will be limited on other Muni routes serving the area. 
  • Please avoid carrying large coolers, chairs, umbrellas, or similar items on Muni. 
  • Bus Priority Boarding Locations will be centrally located to provide access to great viewing locations within a 10-minute walk. 
  • Access to Crissy Field requires a 30-45 minute walk from Marina Middle School. 
  • Muni riders can avoid the headaches of parking expected to fill early.

Walking

  • Many of the best viewing areas are within easy walking distance of transit stops and surrounding neighborhoods.
  • Walking provides flexibility before and after the event and avoids the headaches, expense and delays of traffic congestion, parking and surge pricing.

Bicycling

  • Bicycling is one of the fastest ways to travel to and from the waterfront and Presidio areas.
  • Bike parking options will be available near major viewing locations.
  • Bicycling provides flexibility before and after the event and avoids headaches, expense and delays of traffic congestion, parking and surge pricing.

Driving

  • Drivers should plan ahead. Make a day of it to allow significant extra travel time.
  • Parking will be limited and is expected to fill early. Drivers are encouraged to be courteous and avoid blocking driveways and other right of ways.
  • Travelers should expect extended delays arriving to and leaving the area after the fireworks display.
  • The Golden Gate Bridge is expected to be closed for up to three hours around the fireworks display. Those planning travel between Marin County and San Francisco should plan to use alternate routes through the East Bay.

Taxi & Rideshare

  • Muni, walking and biking will be an efficient way to travel from the fireworks. For those choosing to use rideshare services, they are expected to be busy after the fireworks and geofences will be in place to help minimize congestion. 
  • Please be prepared to walk away from the viewing locations when requesting a rideshare service.

Parking 

  • Parking near major viewing areas is extremely limited and is expected to fill early. Find SFMTA-owned garages at SFMTA.com/Garages
  • Residents should expect increased demand for on-street parking throughout the day and evening in neighborhoods near the waterfront and Golden Gate Bridge.
  • Temporary parking restrictions will be in place in certain areas. Visitors should carefully read all posted parking signs and restrictions before leaving their vehicle.
  • Be mindful of residents. Do not block or otherwise encroach into driveways.