Davies Symphony Hall
The Majestic Davies Symphony Hall: A Cultural Gem in San Francisco
War Memorial Opera House: A Beaux-Arts Masterpiece
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.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to War Memorial Opera House
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
301 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, Fillmore District, California, 94102, US
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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.
Local tips
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Arrive early to allow time for parking, security checks, and exploring the Opera House.
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Consider attending a pre-opera talk to learn more about the performance you are about to see.
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Check the performance schedule in advance, as the Opera House alternates between opera and ballet seasons.
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Take public transportation, as parking in the Civic Center can be limited.
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Dress comfortably; some patrons dress formally, while others prefer casual attire.
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.
A brief summary to War Memorial Opera House
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