Cupid's Span was inspired by the myth of Cupid and the maritime history of the San Francisco waterfront.
The sculpture is constructed from steel, fiberglass, and epoxy resin painted to resemble a bow and arrow.
The park was developed as part of a joint project between the San Francisco Redevelopment Agency and the Port of San Francisco.
The limestone seating was specifically placed to provide sightlines toward the Bay Bridge traffic.
The park serves as a frequent waypoint for pedestrians using the Embarcadero promenade.
Rincon Park is a 2.2-acre public space located along San Francisco's Embarcadero waterfront. The park is anchored by 'Cupid's Span,' a 60-foot-tall bow-and-arrow sculpture designed by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen. It sits directly beneath the western approach of the San Francisco–Oakland Bay Bridge, offering unobstructed views of the bridge's main span. The park features paved walkways, grass berms, and limestone seating areas. It serves as a connector between the Ferry Building and the South Beach neighborhood.
From the water's edge looking back toward the city, framing Cupid's Span with the Bay Bridge in the background.
Bring a windbreaker, as the waterfront area is subject to significant bay breezes.
Combine your visit with a walk to the nearby Ferry Building Marketplace.
Check the tide levels if you plan to walk along the adjacent pier structures.
Do not assume the grassy areas are large enough for sports; they are designed for passive lounging and are often occupied by lunching office workers.
