Davies Symphony Hall, Bay Area Travel Guide

Experience world-class music at Davies Symphony Hall, an architectural and acoustic masterpiece in San Francisco's vibrant Civic Center.

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Davies Symphony Hall

Davies Symphony Hall, home to the San Francisco Symphony, is a modern architectural marvel renowned for its exceptional acoustics and striking design. Opened in 1980, the hall offers a year-round schedule of classical concerts and diverse events in San Francisco's Civic Center.

A brief summary to Davies Symphony Hall

201 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, Civic Center, California, 94102, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Davies Symphony Hall.

Arrive early to explore the lobby and enjoy views of City Hall and the War Memorial Opera House.
Consider attending a Monday tour to learn about the hall's unique acoustic features.
Check the Symphony's website for information on pre-concert talks or special events.
Use public transportation as parking can be limited and expensive.

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Explore Davies Symphony Hall on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Davies Symphony Hall, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

Davies Symphony Hall is easily accessible via public transportation. From the Civic Center BART station, walk north along Van Ness Avenue for approximately 5 minutes. Several Muni bus lines also stop near the hall. A single Muni fare is $3.00.
Walking

From the San Francisco City Hall, walk south on Van Ness Avenue for one block. Davies Symphony Hall will be on your right, at the corner of Grove Street. The walk is approximately 5 minutes.
Ride Share

If arriving by ride-sharing service, specify 201 Van Ness Avenue as your destination. Be prepared for potential traffic delays, especially during peak hours or event nights. A short ride from the nearby Hayes Valley neighborhood typically costs $15-20, depending on demand and traffic.
Parking

Several parking garages are located near Davies Symphony Hall, including the Performing Arts Garage at 360 Grove Street and the Civic Center Garage at 355 McAllister Street. Parking rates vary, with event rates typically higher. Expect to pay $25-40 for several hours of parking. Street parking is also available, but can be difficult to find, especially during events.

Discover more about Davies Symphony Hall

Davies Symphony Hall, located in San Francisco's Civic Center, is a premier music venue and the permanent home of the San Francisco Symphony. Completed in 1980, the 2,743-seat hall was designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill and Pietro Belluschi with acoustics as a primary focus. The hall's design incorporates a building-within-a-building concept, which insulates the performance space from external noise and vibrations.The hall is named for Louise M. Davies, a generous benefactor who contributed significantly to its creation. Davies Symphony Hall allows the San Francisco Symphony to maintain a full-time, year-round schedule. The hall's curved glass-enclosed lobby provides views of San Francisco City Hall and the War Memorial Opera House. Inside, adjustable acrylic sound reflectors and banners tailor the acoustics for different performances. The hall also houses the Harold L. Zellerbach Rehearsal Hall, comprising three separate rehearsal spaces.Davies Symphony Hall is easily accessible via public transportation, including Muni Metro and BART. The hall is part of the San Francisco War Memorial and Performing Arts Center. In addition to orchestral performances, Davies Symphony Hall hosts recitals and contemporary music events.