The Sausalito Bay Model is a large fascinating device that is functioning scale-model rendering of the San Francisco Bay and the San Joaquin/Sacramento River Delta water systems. This huge working model was once used by the United States Army Corps of Engineers to conduct hands-on scientific studies related to elements and facts that could impact the represented regions during times of war or peace, and due to natural disasters.

The Sausalito Bay Model is an interesting San Francisco tourist attraction.

The colorful City of Sausalito is located 1.7 miles over the Golden Gate Bridge from the Fisherman’s Wharf district in San Francisco. During the mid-1950s, the Army Corps of Engineers created the Sausalito Bay Model for professionals and scientists from a variety of disciplines to use for environmental impact tests and research. This functioning replica measures about 320-feet from north to south and about 400-feet in an east-west direction.

Underneath the San Francisco Bay model in Sausalito, there are 286 five-ton slabs of joined concrete to support the weight of the water in this scientific replica. It is possible to examine the functions of shipping channels, inland rivers and other area waterway functions up to 17-miles out into the Pacific Ocean. Piers, bridges and breakwaters can also be examined to determine their ability to function under a variety of circumstances.

When visitors arrive at the Sausalito Bay Model, they are treated to hands-on exhibits, displays and user-friendly information about the history and functions of this scientific prop. School children, corporate gatherings and dedicated groups of scientific observers can arrange to have tours at this facility that will be led by a scientist with experience in addressing the interest-levels of the participants. Groups call ahead for tour arrangements.

 Sausalito Art Show weekend offers special events at the Bay Model facility.

The Bay Model facility plans a large open house during the Sausalito Art Festival weekend. Each year, over Labor Day weekend, thousands of people flock into Sausalito to see the largest free art festival in America. It is estimated that over 50,000 visitors and guests are in town to enjoy the Sausalito Art Festival celebration. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at the centrally located Bay Model facility help to entertain the crowds.

Finding the Bay Model is easy to do while visiting in Sausalito. This hydraulic-run working model of the San Francisco Bay and surrounding areas is located in the center of town on Bridgeway. Bridgeway is the main road that follows along the waterfront. The Army Corps of Engineers keeps an interesting visitor center that can be accessed by the visitors to Sausalito without calling ahead for a group tour appointment. Adults, teens and children often enjoy seeing how the local San Francisco area waterways operate.