The Bay Lights of San Francisco

The Bay Lights have been lit, providing yet another reason to visit San Francisco. This monumental light sculpture, inspired by the 75th anniversary of the San Francisco Bay Bridge, consists of 25,000 white LED lights that swim and dance in a range of mesmerizing patterns across the western span of the bridge. Organizers believe the piece to be the world’s largest LED light sculpture. It will be visible every evening from dusk to two a.m. for at least the next two years.

For the best view, we recommend the pier just south of the Ferry Building. The project is the brainchild of Ben Davis, founder of Words Pictures Ideas, a local creative agency hired by the city to promote the bridge, which is often overshadowed by its vermillion-hued neighbor to the north. It was created by artist Leo Villareal, a pioneer in light sculptures and computer-driven imagery. The project is privately funded and powered by dedicated solar panels installed in Davis, California.