Cartoon Art Museum
Cartoon Art Museum: A Celebration of Visual Storytelling
Cartoon Art Museum: A Celebration of Visual Storytelling
Explore the world of comics, animation, and cartoon art at San Francisco's unique Cartoon Art Museum in the heart of Fisherman's Wharf.
The Cartoon Art Museum in San Francisco is a unique cultural institution dedicated to preserving and exhibiting cartoon art in all its forms. From comic strips to animation cels, the museum showcases the history and ongoing evolution of this engaging art form, offering something for everyone who appreciates visual storytelling.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Cartoon Art Museum
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Monday
11 am-5 pm
Tuesday
11 am-5 pm
Thursday
11 am-5 pm
Friday
11 am-5 pm
Saturday
11 am-5 pm
Sunday
11 am-5 pm
Explore places near Cartoon Art Museum
Getting There
Walking
From Fisherman's Wharf, the Cartoon Art Museum is easily accessible on foot. Head west along Beach Street towards Ghirardelli Square. The museum is located on 781 Beach Street, across the street from Aquatic Park, a short walk from the Powell/Hyde Cable Car line. No costs are associated with this final approach.
Public Transport
To reach the Cartoon Art Museum via public transport, take the Powell/Hyde cable car from Union Square to the final stop at Hyde St & Beach St, which is right across the street from the museum. A single ride on the cable car costs $8. Alternatively, the F Line streetcar stops a couple blocks away. A single ride on Muni, including the F Line, costs $3.
Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off directly in front of the Cartoon Art Museum at 781 Beach Street. From Fisherman's Wharf, a short taxi ride will cost approximately $13-$17, plus tip. Taxi fares in San Francisco include a $4.15 flag rate, $0.65 for each additional 1/5th of a mile, and $0.65 for each minute of waiting time.
Driving
If driving, approach via Beach Street. Note that the Cartoon Art Museum does not have on-site parking. Several parking garages are available nearby, including the Ghirardelli Square Garage (900 Northpoint Boulevard) and the Hyde Beach Garage (655 Beach Street). Ghirardelli Square Garage rates start at $18 for three hours, while Hyde Beach Garage charges $5 per hour on weekdays and $5 per half hour on weekends, with a daily maximum of $50. Metered street parking is also available, but can be limited.
Local tips
✓
Visit on the first Tuesday of the month for 'Pay What You Wish' day, offering accessible admission for all.
✓
Check the museum's website for current exhibitions and special events to make the most of your visit.
✓
The museum is closed on Wednesdays, so plan your visit accordingly.
✓
Take public transportation or utilize nearby parking garages, as on-site parking is not available.
Discover more about Cartoon Art Museum
The Cartoon Art Museum (CAM), located in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, stands as the only museum in the Western United States dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of all forms of cartoon art. Founded in 1984 by comic art enthusiasts, including Malcolm Whyte, the museum has evolved from organizing shows in temporary locations to establishing a permanent home with the help of an endowment from cartoonist Charles Schulz.
The museum's collection boasts approximately 7,000 pieces, including original animation cels, comic book pages, and early newspaper comic strips. Unlike traditional museums with static collections, the Cartoon Art Museum hosts nine to twelve major exhibitions annually, ensuring a constantly fresh and engaging experience for visitors. These rotating exhibits highlight different aspects of cartoon art, from individual artists to specific genres, attracting diverse audiences.
Beyond exhibitions, the Cartoon Art Museum is committed to education, offering classes for children and adults, lectures, and workshops. The museum also houses a research library and bookstore, making it a valuable resource for scholars, artists, and fans alike. Whether you're a die-hard comic aficionado or simply curious about the world of cartoons, the Cartoon Art Museum offers a fun and engaging experience for all ages.
A brief summary to Cartoon Art Museum
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
Get the app
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
More about Berkeley
Discover Berkeley, California: A vibrant blend of academic excellence, culinary delights, and cultural richness nestled on the San Francisco Bay's eastern shore.
Tell me more about Berkeley