Background

War Memorial Opera House: A Beaux-Arts Masterpiece

4.8 (2216)

Experience world-class opera and ballet in a historic Beaux-Arts landmark in San Francisco's vibrant Civic Center.

Home to the San Francisco Opera and San Francisco Ballet, the War Memorial Opera House is a stunning Beaux-Arts building that has been a cultural landmark since 1932. It's not just a beautiful venue, but also a site of significant historical events.

A brief summary to War Memorial Opera House

Local tips

  • Arrive early to allow time for parking, security checks, and exploring the Opera House.
  • Consider attending a pre-opera talk to learn more about the performance you are about to see.
  • Check the performance schedule in advance, as the Opera House alternates between opera and ballet seasons.
  • Take public transportation, as parking in the Civic Center can be limited.
  • Dress comfortably; some patrons dress formally, while others prefer casual attire.
widget icon

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Attraction

Davies Symphony Hall

The Architectural Marvel of Davies Symphony Hall
Attraction

Civic Center

Civic Center: The Heart of San Francisco
Attraction

49-Mile Scenic Drive

Explore the Beauty of the 49-Mile Scenic Drive

Unlock the Best of War Memorial Opera House

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The War Memorial Opera House is easily accessible via public transportation. From the Civic Center BART and MUNI stations, it's a short walk. Several MUNI bus lines also stop near the Opera House. Plan your trip using BART.gov or the MUNI trip planner. A single ride on MUNI costs $3.00. BART fares vary depending on the distance traveled.

  • Walking

    From San Francisco City Hall, walk west on Grove Street towards Van Ness Avenue. The War Memorial Opera House is located at the corner of Van Ness Avenue and Grove Street, directly across from the rear of City Hall. The walk is approximately 5 minutes.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxi and ride-share services can drop off and pick up passengers at the white loading zone in front of the Opera House at 301 Van Ness Avenue. A short ride from Union Square to the Opera House typically costs $15-$25, depending on traffic.

  • Driving

    If driving, use 511.org for directions and traffic updates. Several parking garages are located near the Opera House, including the Performing Arts Garage at 360 Grove Street. Parking rates at nearby garages range from $4 for 2 hours to $25-$48 per day. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially during performances.

Discover more about War Memorial Opera House

The War Memorial Opera House, located in San Francisco's Civic Center, is a testament to the city's commitment to the arts and a monument to those who served in World War I. Designed by Arthur Brown Jr. and G. Albert Lansburgh, the building opened in 1932 and is one of the last Beaux-Arts structures in the United States. Its elegant design features a grand lobby, vaulted ceilings, marble foyer, and sweeping balconies. The Opera House has a rich history, having hosted the first assembly of the United Nations in 1945 and the ceremony where the U.S. restored Japanese sovereignty in 1951. It has been the home of the San Francisco Opera since its opening night and also houses the San Francisco Ballet. The San Francisco Symphony performed here from 1932 until 1980. Inside, the theater boasts 3,146 seats and standing room for 200. The interior features a massive aluminum and glass chandelier and a proscenium arch decorated with gilded figurative sculpture. The War Memorial Opera House underwent extensive renovations after the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, reopening in 1997 with updated technology and seismic reinforcement. Today, it continues to host world-class opera and ballet performances, as well as other events.

Explore the best of what War Memorial Opera House has to offer

Mobile 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

File:UC-Berkeley-campus-overview-from-hills.h.jpg - Wikipedia

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
Attraction

Discover San Francisco's iconic landmarks and breathtaking vistas along the 49-Mile Scenic Drive, a picturesque route showcasing the city's unique beauty.

49-Mile Scenic Drive
Attraction

Experience the architectural wonder and cultural richness of Davies Symphony Hall, the heart of San Francisco's vibrant music scene.

Davies Symphony Hall

Select Currency