UCSF Betty Irene Moore Women’s Hospital and San Francisco Historical Sites
UCSF Betty Irene Moore Women’s Hospital
UCSF Betty Irene Moore Women’s Hospital is dedicated exclusively to women’s health and is located in San Francisco’s Mission Bay neighborhood. It opened in February 2015 as part of the UCSF Medical Center’s Mission Bay campus. The hospital combines advanced medical technology with patient-centered care and is designed to promote healing, comfort, and well-being.
For current visitor information and updates, visit the UCSF Betty Irene Moore Women’s Hospital official website.
History and philanthropic legacy
The hospital was established through the philanthropy of Betty Irene Moore and her husband, Gordon Moore, co-founder of Intel. Inspired by Betty’s experiences as a patient and caregiver, the Moores founded the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation in 2000 to advance patient safety, healthcare quality, and research. Their $50 million donation in 2014 helped make the hospital possible.
Betty Irene Moore’s commitment to nursing education and excellence is also reflected in the Betty Irene Moore Nursing Initiative and the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing at UC Davis.
Design and care
The hospital has light-filled private rooms with Wi-Fi, flat-screen televisions, secure storage, and personalized multimedia systems. Meditation spaces support patient well-being.
Its 36-bed birthing center provides a range of obstetric care, from low-intervention deliveries with midwives and doulas to advanced fetal surgery for high-risk pregnancies. The hospital’s evidence-based approach is reflected in outcomes that include low cesarean rates and high breastfeeding success.
Visiting information
- Visiting hours Daily, 8:00 AM–8:00 PM. Check the hospital website or call ahead for updates or restrictions.
- Tickets and appointments No tickets are needed for general visits. Medical consultations require appointments. Appointments are also required for specialized tours; registration is recommended for guided tours and special events.
- Location 2356 Sutter Street, Mission Bay, San Francisco, CA 94143.
- Public transit Muni bus routes and the T Third Street light rail serve the area.
- Parking On-site parking is available in the Mission Bay Garage, with hourly and daily rates. Limited street parking is nearby.
- Accessibility The hospital is fully ADA-compliant, with wheelchair access, assistive listening devices, and support services for visitors with disabilities. Contact the hospital before visiting about specific accommodations.
Events, tours, and photographic spots
The hospital hosts educational events, health screenings, and community workshops focused on women’s health. Guided tours are available by request and showcase its facilities and care philosophy.
The meditation garden and the birthing center’s private rooms are photographic spots that illustrate the hospital’s emphasis on comfort and healing.
Tips and nearby places
Public transportation is encouraged for convenience. Comfortable walking shoes are useful for exploring Mission Bay and nearby sites. Nearby San Francisco attractions include Mission Dolores Park, the Embarcadero waterfront, and the SoMa and Mission District neighborhoods.
Updates on visiting hours, events, and health initiatives are available through the UCSF Women’s Health website and its social media channels. The Audiala app is presented as a resource for interactive maps, event schedules, and exclusive content about the hospital and San Francisco’s historical sites.
Hospital FAQ
What are the hospital’s visiting hours?
Daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Check for updates before visiting.
Are tickets needed to visit?
No tickets are needed for general visits. Appointments are required for medical services and certain tours.
Is parking available?
Yes. On-site parking is available in the Mission Bay Garage.
Is the hospital accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes. The hospital is fully ADA-compliant and offers accommodations upon request.
Can I book a guided tour?
Yes. Guided tours are available by appointment through the hospital’s website.
Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge spans the Golden Gate Strait, connecting San Francisco with Marin County. Its Art Deco design and International Orange color make it an internationally recognized symbol of the city.
History
Completed in 1937, the bridge was an engineering achievement that improved Bay Area transportation and became a cultural icon.
What to see
The Welcome Center offers information about the bridge. Marin Headlands and Battery Spencer provide panoramic views; Vista Point and Fort Point are popular for close-up photographs. Nearby attractions include:
- Crissy Field A place for picnics and walks.
- Fort Point National Historic Site Offers history and distinctive views of the bridge (National Park Service - Fort Point).
- Golden Gate Park Includes gardens, museums, and recreational areas.
Visiting information
- The bridge is open to pedestrians and cyclists 24/7.
- The Welcome Center operates daily from 9:00 AM–6:00 PM.
- Walking and biking are free. Parking and guided tours may require payment.
- Guided tours can be booked via the official Golden Gate Bridge website, online, or at the Welcome Center.
- Parking is available at South Vista Point and North Vista Point.
- The bridge and Welcome Center are wheelchair accessible.
- Driving across the bridge is possible, with a toll southbound into San Francisco.
Tips
Visiting in the morning or late afternoon can mean fewer crowds and good views. Public transportation is encouraged.
Golden Gate Bridge FAQ
Is there a fee to walk across?
No. Walking and cycling across are free.
Are guided tours available?
Yes. They can be booked online or at the Welcome Center.
Is the bridge accessible?
Yes. The bridge is wheelchair accessible.
Can I drive across?
Yes, with a toll southbound into San Francisco.
For more planning resources, visit the official Golden Gate Bridge website.
Mission San Francisco de Asís (Mission Dolores)
Mission San Francisco de Asís, also known as Mission Dolores, is in San Francisco’s Mission District at 3321 16th Street. Founded in 1776, it is part of California’s Spanish colonial history.
History
Built in 1791, Mission Dolores is San Francisco’s oldest intact building and oldest surviving building. It served as a center of religious, agricultural, and community life for the Indigenous Ohlone and Spanish settlers.
What to see
Visitors can explore the historic chapel, cemetery, gardens, and museum. The site also has an on-site gift shop, accessible restrooms, and free Wi-Fi.
Nearby places include Mission District murals, Dolores Park, and local dining options offering Mexican, Latin American, and fusion cuisine.
Visiting information
- Hours Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–4:30 PM. Closed Mondays and major holidays.
- Admission $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and students, and free for children under 12.
- Guided tours Daily at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Reservations are recommended for groups.
- Events Special events and educational programs take place throughout the year. Check the official website for schedules.
- Public transit Muni bus lines 14 and 49 serve the area, and the site is near the 16th Street BART station.
- Parking Limited street parking is available; public transit is recommended.
- Accessibility The site is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and accessible restrooms.
- Photography Photography is allowed outdoors. Flash photography and video are not allowed inside the chapel.
Tips
Arrive early to avoid crowds. Contact the visitor center about special accommodations.
Mission Dolores FAQ
Is Mission Dolores suitable for children?
Yes. Educational programs are available for young visitors.
Are pets allowed?
Only service animals are permitted.
Can I host private events?
Yes. Inquire with the administration office.
Are audio guides available?
Yes. They can be rented at the visitor center.
Contact
- Mission Dolores Official Site
- Visitor Info: (415) 621-8203 | [email protected]
- Tours: [email protected]