Palace of Fine Arts: A Roman Ruin in San Francisco
A San Francisco icon: the Palace of Fine Arts offers a serene escape with its Roman-inspired architecture and tranquil lagoon setting.
The Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco's Marina District is a stunning architectural landmark originally constructed for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition. Rebuilt in the 1960s, it stands as the only surviving structure from the exposition, offering a serene and picturesque escape with its iconic rotunda, colonnades, and tranquil lagoon.
A brief summary to Palace of Fine Arts Theatre
- 3301 Lyon St, San Francisco, Marina District, California, 94123, US
- +1415-855-1607
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the late afternoon for the best lighting and photo opportunities.
- Take a stroll around the lagoon to admire the swans, ducks, and turtles.
- Check the Palace of Fine Arts Theatre schedule for upcoming events and performances.
- Explore the nearby Marina District for shops, restaurants, and bars.
Getting There
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Public Transport
The Palace of Fine Arts is easily accessible by San Francisco Muni buses. Several bus lines, including the #30, #43, #28, and #29, stop nearby. From Fisherman's Wharf, take the #30 Stockton bus. If arriving via BART, exit at Montgomery Street Station, walk to Third Street, and catch the #30 bus. A single Muni fare is around $3.
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Walking
From the eastern edge of the Presidio, the Palace of Fine Arts is a short walk. If you're coming from Lombard Garage (2055 Lombard Street), it's approximately a 15-minute walk. Head west on Lombard Street, turn left onto Lyon Street, and walk a few blocks to the Palace.
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Ride Share/Taxi
Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off directly at the Palace of Fine Arts. A ride from Fisherman's Wharf or Union Square will typically cost between $15 and $25, depending on traffic.
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Driving
When driving from the North Bay, cross the Golden Gate Bridge and follow signs for Downtown San Francisco. Take the Marina exit and proceed on Marina Boulevard. Turn right on Baker Street, left on Jefferson Street, left on Broderick Street, and left again on Marina Boulevard. Turn right on Yacht Road for parking near the St. Francis Yacht Club, or continue on Marina to Mason Street for an alternate parking lot. Parking in the Presidio costs $1.20-$1.80 per hour or $7-$8.50 per day. Lombard Garage, a 15-minute walk away, charges $22 per day.
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