One of the objects that symbolizes America: the Go...

One of the objects that symbolizes America: the Golden Gate to the Golden State. Of course both names come from the '49ers migrating to California in search of the rumored gold; a bit like the myth of El Dorado. Of course, too, the Golden Gate isn't really a gate at all, it's a bridge, a really ginormous bridge. It's not just the span, it's also its height. Not sure how high up it is, but I'm sure the designers had battleships destined for the San Fran naval base in mind when designing it. Alas, at least for the war hungry, the US navy has pretty much pulled up its tent from San Fran. So. Height doesn't really matter anymore, though it gives quite the panoramic view of San Fran bay.
I've been over the bridge by car several times. I always wondered what would happen if a car broke down in the middle of one of these big bridges, but I haven't seen it happen yet. I suppose it would be a cataclysmic disaster. Even by car, it's still a long drive. When I was travelling on the bridge, traffic was very light. The toll is rather pricey.

Anyway, I'd bet San Fran's rusty color painted bridge is right up there with the Hollywood sign as one of California's most identifying landmarks. If you like bridges, or like touristy stuff, or just need to get somewhere in spite of a hefty toll, check it out.