Introduction

James Bond may be one of the most suitable film franchises for a Sparked Travel guide. Each movie whisks viewers away to far corners of the earth as we follow the thrilling adventures of 007. Our first James Bond guide features one of the more controversial Bond films, A View to Kill from 1985. From criticizing Roger Moore’s age (James Bond) to some of the gag-like action scenes, this film definitely has its quirks. On the other hand, this film is very much entertaining and features some iconic landmarks from around the globe. 

After the film sets the stage, the film’s villain, Max Zorin (played by Christopher Walken) reveals his diabolical scheme to flood the technological hub, Silicon Valley. For this reason, Bond jets off to the Golden City to save the day and we will follow right behind! San Francisco is all over A View to Kill and at times it feels that they must have shut down the entire city to film this movie. So follow along as we highlight some of the iconic scenes and landmarks of this Bond classic. 

San Francisco City Hall

When James Bond turns up in San Francisco stepping off one of the iconic street cars, you know things were about to heat up. Our first stop with this James Bond travel guide is the San Francisco City Hall. This is no accident as this eye-catching building draws French architectural inspiration and holds the title as the tallest dome in the United States; yes, it’s even taller than the United States Capitol. The most notable scene is when Zorin and Mayday light the People’s Palace aflame and Bond and Stacey have to make a daring escape. In the film, you can see that production crews went all out for the theatrics and even got the city’s approval for the use of pyrotechnics. The City Hall is open to the public and visitors can even reserve a free tour of the historic building here. Make sure to get a picture upon the grand marble staircase which is featured in multiple films, not just A View to Kill.

Fisherman’s Wharf

Our next stop on our itinerary is to the bustling tourist location on Pier 39. This is where Bond first made landfall in San Francisco and met with the American CIA agent to gather intel on Zorin. But no worries, there is far more to do here than just pick up some soft shelled crabs. The Fisherman’s Wharf is a short 15 minute Uber from the City Hall and a great spot to pick up the perfect souvenir you were looking for. The outdoor markets are perfect to grab a quick bite to eat with all the seafaring favorites like chowder, shrimp, oysters, and more. 

As you get closer to the water, travelers are sure to see the sea lions basking in the sun and if you look off into the distance the infamous Alcatraz Prison will be looming amongst the San Francisco fog. You will also find the Ghirardelli Square within the Fisherman’s Wharf which was formerly the chocolate giant’s factory. After Ghirardelli moved their headquarters, the site was repurposed as a hub for dining and shops. If shopping in this area isn’t quite your thing, it still makes a great location for people watching. A skill all secret agents possess. 

Golden Gate Bridge

A View to Kill’s conclusion takes place at none other than San Francisco’s most famous landmark, the Golden Gate Bridge. So, it makes sense to end our Bond city tour here as well. In the film, viewers get some awe inspiring shots of the landscape as Bond holds on for dear life below Zorin’s blimp. In an attempt to end Bond’s pursuit, Zorin tries to use the bridge to his advantage and knock Bond off. But of course, 007 is quick thinking and uses the rope to lasso the blimp to the bridge. A bold fight ensues atop the Golden Gate Bridge and Bond appears victorious amidst a fiery explosion.

The Golden Gate Bridge is about a 10 minute drive from the Fisherman’s wharf but I highly suggest walking the four miles. It’s a pleasant stroll along the San Francisco Bay and you will be joined by countless others out enjoying their day. As you get closer and closer to the bridge, travelers will have opportunities to capture photos of various angles of the legendary bridge. It took me a couple hours to do the walk but I felt accomplished. Just make sure you apply sunscreen even if it doesn’t seem that warm out. It was a bright and windy day and I came away with a bright red face!

Now, we weren’t able to see all the San Franciscan locations featured in the film but if you have time some of the other locations include: Lefty O’Doul Bridge (where the fire truck chase ends), the Transamerica Building (where Bond gets caught on the building’s antenna), and the Dunsmuir-Hellman Historic Estate (Stacey’s mansion in Oakland). 

If you have seen A View to Kill, please let us know your thoughts on the movie below!