Discover the Artistic Heart of San Francisco: San Francisco Art Institute
Explore the San Francisco Art Institute, a historic hub of creativity and culture in the heart of California's artistic capital.
Nestled in the charming Russian Hill neighborhood, the San Francisco Art Institute is a vibrant hub for art lovers, offering a unique glimpse into the creative spirit of the city. With its stunning views and rich history, this institution serves as both an educational center and a cultural landmark, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring San Francisco. Immerse yourself in the world of contemporary art and enjoy the breathtaking surroundings that enhance your artistic journey.
A brief summary to San Francisco Art Institute
- 800 Chestnut St, San Francisco, Russian Hill, California, 94133, US
- +1415-771-7020
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the schedule for exhibitions and events, as they often feature local artists and innovative works.
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the art and atmosphere.
- Don't miss the stunning views from the campus; bring your camera for some fantastic photo opportunities.
- Explore the surrounding Russian Hill neighborhood for charming cafes and shops after your visit.
Getting There
-
Public Transportation
Start by heading to the Castro Valley BART station located at 3301 East Castro Valley Blvd. from your current location in Castro Valley. Once you arrive at the station, purchase a ticket to San Francisco. Board a train heading towards the Daly City direction. After approximately 30 minutes, disembark at the Embarcadero BART station. From there, transfer to the Muni bus or streetcar. Take the 30-Stockton bus towards Bayview-Hunters Point or the F-Market streetcar. Get off at the stop on Chestnut St & Fillmore St. Walk west on Chestnut Street for about 5 minutes until you reach 800 Chestnut St, the San Francisco Art Institute.
-
Biking
If you're comfortable riding a bike, you can rent one from a local bike shop in Castro Valley. Head towards the Castro Valley BART station, then take the bike path to the San Francisco ferry terminal. Board the ferry to San Francisco, which is a scenic route across the bay. Once you arrive, bike towards the Russian Hill area. Follow the streets until you reach Chestnut St. Continue on Chestnut St for about 5 minutes, and you will find the San Francisco Art Institute at 800 Chestnut St.
-
Walking
If you prefer walking, a scenic option would be to take the BART from Castro Valley to Embarcadero station. From there, you can explore the waterfront area. After enjoying the views, head towards Montgomery St and walk north to reach North Beach neighborhood. From there, navigate to Chestnut St, where you will find the San Francisco Art Institute at 800 Chestnut St. Please note that this will be a longer journey, so be prepared for a good walk!
Discover more about San Francisco Art Institute
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lombard St
0.3 km
Discover the beauty of Lombard Street, San Francisco's iconic crooked street, adorned with stunning gardens and breathtaking views.
Russian Hill
0.5 km
Experience the stunning views, historic charm, and vibrant culture of Russian Hill in San Francisco, a neighborhood that defines the city's unique spirit.
Muir Woods Shuttles and Tours
0.5 km
Experience the serene beauty of Muir Woods with seamless tours from Muir Woods Shuttles and Tours, your gateway to towering redwoods and lush landscapes.
Fisherman’s Wharf Sign
0.5 km
Discover the iconic Fisherman’s Wharf Sign, a historical landmark in San Francisco that captures the essence of the city’s vibrant waterfront culture.
Fisherman's Wharf
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant waterfront of Fisherman's Wharf, where fresh seafood, historic attractions, and lively entertainment await in San Francisco.
2905 Hyde St
0.5 km
Experience the historic charm of 2905 Hyde St in San Francisco's iconic Fisherman's Wharf, where stunning views and rich maritime history await.
1890 San Francisco Bay Ark
0.6 km
Explore the rich maritime history of San Francisco at the 1890 San Francisco Bay Ark, a key attraction in the Maritime National Historical Park.
Russian Hill-Macondray Lane Historic District
0.6 km
Immerse yourself in the history and beauty of Russian Hill-Macondray Lane in San Francisco, a tranquil escape filled with stunning architecture and views.
California Historical Landmark 236: First Ship into San Francisco Bay
0.6 km
Explore the historical significance of California Historical Landmark 236, the first ship's entry point to San Francisco Bay, with stunning scenic views.
Hyde Street Pier
0.6 km
Experience the maritime history and breathtaking views at Hyde Street Pier, a must-visit historical landmark in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf.
Maritime Museum
0.6 km
Discover San Francisco's maritime heritage at the Maritime Museum, a fascinating journey through nautical history with stunning bay views.
San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park
0.7 km
Discover the maritime heritage of San Francisco at the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, featuring historic ships, stunning views, and educational exhibits.
Pier 43 Ferry Arch
0.7 km
Explore the historic Pier 43 Ferry Arch in San Francisco, a captivating landmark where stunning bay views meet rich maritime history.
Washington Square
0.7 km
Discover Washington Square, a beautiful city park in San Francisco's North Beach, perfect for relaxation, culture, and scenic views.
C.A. Thayer
0.7 km
Discover the C.A. Thayer, a historic wooden schooner in San Francisco, offering a deep dive into maritime history and the legacy of seafaring.
Unmissable attractions to see
Vantigo Tours
0.3 km
Explore San Francisco's iconic sights and hidden gems with Vantigo Tours, your gateway to unforgettable adventures in the city by the bay.
Bay City Bike Rentals and Tours
0.4 km
Discover San Francisco's iconic landmarks and scenic beauty on two wheels with Bay City Bike Rentals and Tours, the ultimate biking experience.
GoCar Tours
0.4 km
Explore San Francisco's iconic landmarks and hidden gems with GoCar Tours' unique GPS-guided vehicles for an unforgettable adventure.
Blazing Saddles Bike Rentals & Tours
0.4 km
Discover San Francisco's iconic sights and breathtaking views on two wheels at Blazing Saddles Bike Rentals & Tours.
Truhlsen-Marmor Museum of the Eye
0.4 km
Explore the Truhlsen-Marmor Museum of the Eye: A unique museum in San Francisco dedicated to the science and history of vision.
George Sterling Park
0.4 km
Discover the charm of George Sterling Park: a serene urban oasis in San Francisco's Russian Hill, perfect for outdoor recreation and relaxation.
San Francisco Fire Engine Tours & Adventures
0.4 km
Experience the charm of San Francisco on a vintage fire engine tour, exploring iconic landmarks and hidden gems in style and comfort.
Joe DiMaggio Playground
0.4 km
Experience the joy of play and community at Joe DiMaggio Playground in San Francisco's North Beach, a perfect spot for families and tourists alike.
San Francisco E-Scooter Rentals - Electric Tour Company
0.5 km
Experience the best of San Francisco with Electric Tour Company’s e-scooter rentals, ideal for sightseeing and adventure.
Essential places to dine
Surisan
0.3 km
Discover Surisan: Where Korean flavors meet brunch classics in San Francisco's scenic Fisherman's Wharf.
Fior d'Italia
0.3 km
Discover Fior d'Italia: A historic Italian restaurant in San Francisco's North Beach offering authentic cuisine and an inviting atmosphere.
Gary Danko
0.4 km
Discover the culinary masterpiece of Gary Danko in San Francisco - where exquisite flavors meet unparalleled service.
Cioppino's
0.5 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Cioppino's - A family-friendly Italian restaurant located at Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco.
Capurro's Restaurant
0.5 km
Discover Capurro's Restaurant at Fisherman's Wharf - where fresh seafood meets Italian flair in an unforgettable dining experience.
Franciscan Crab Restaurant
0.6 km
Discover exquisite seafood dining with breathtaking bay views at Franciscan Crab Restaurant in Fisherman's Wharf.
The Stinking Rose A Garlic Fish House
0.6 km
Experience exquisite garlic-infused seafood at The Stinking Rose A Garlic Fish House in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf.
Original Joe's
0.8 km
Discover authentic Italian-American cuisine at Original Joe's in North Beach – where history meets flavor in every dish.
Eagle Cafe
0.8 km
Experience delightful seafood and breakfast dishes at Eagle Cafe in San Francisco's iconic Pier 39 with stunning bay views.
Red Window
0.8 km
Discover Red Window: A delightful European-inspired bar in San Francisco's North Beach offering tapas, cocktails, and a charming beer garden.
Wipeout Bar & Grill
0.8 km
Experience Californian flavors at Wipeout Bar & Grill on Pier 39—delicious food, stunning views, and unforgettable moments await you.
Fog Harbor Fish House
0.8 km
Experience the freshest seafood with stunning views at Fog Harbor Fish House in Fisherman's Wharf.
Crab House at Pier 39
0.9 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Crab House at Pier 39 in San Francisco's iconic Fisherman's Wharf with stunning bay views.
Pier Market Seafood Restaurant
0.9 km
Experience fresh seafood delights with stunning bay views at Pier Market Seafood Restaurant in San Francisco's iconic Fisherman's Wharf.
Sotto Mare
0.9 km
Discover Sotto Mare: Where Fresh Seafood Meets Authentic Italian Flavors in San Francisco's North Beach.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Route 66
0.3 km
Discover Route 66: A charming general store in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, offering unique souvenirs and local treasures that capture the spirit of the city.
Safe Harbor
0.5 km
Explore Safe Harbor, a charming souvenir store in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, offering unique treasures and local art to celebrate your visit.
Frank's Fisherman
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and antiques at Frank's Fisherman, a charming shop in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, perfect for souvenirs and stylish finds.
Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience
0.6 km
Discover the sweet legacy of Ghirardelli at the Chocolate Experience, where every bite takes you on a delicious journey through San Francisco's rich chocolate heritage.
Lola of North Beach
0.6 km
Explore Lola of North Beach, a charming gift shop in San Francisco, offering unique souvenirs and treasures that embody the spirit of the city.
Ess Eff Gift Shop (Inside)
0.6 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Ess Eff Gift Shop, a charming destination in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf.
Missing Audrey Vintage
0.7 km
Explore the eclectic world of fashion at Missing Audrey Vintage, where unique vintage clothing and accessories await in vibrant North Beach, San Francisco.
Only In San Francisco
0.8 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local artisan crafts at Only In San Francisco, the perfect gift shop to capture your travel memories.
Molte Cose
0.9 km
Discover unique gifts and clothing at Molte Cose, a charming shop in San Francisco's Polk Gulch, perfect for memorable souvenirs and local finds.
Under the Golden Gate
0.9 km
Explore Under the Golden Gate, a vibrant gift shop at Pier 39 offering unique souvenirs and local crafts in the heart of San Francisco.
Fairy Tales
0.9 km
Explore the whimsical world of Fairy Tales Gift Shop at Pier 39, San Francisco, where magic and creativity come to life in enchanting souvenirs.
I Love SF
0.9 km
Discover unique San Francisco souvenirs at I Love SF, a vibrant gift shop showcasing the spirit of the city in every treasure.
Solve It! Think out of the box
0.9 km
Discover the ultimate game store in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, offering a brilliant selection of puzzles, toys, and family-friendly activities.
The Cable Car Store
0.9 km
Explore San Francisco's charm at The Cable Car Store, your go-to destination for unique souvenirs and gifts celebrating the city's iconic culture.
Enlightenment
0.9 km
Explore Enlightenment Gift Shop at Pier 39 for unique South Asian treasures and memorable souvenirs in San Francisco.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sweetie's Art Bar
0.4 km
Experience the artistic vibe and creative cocktails at Sweetie's Art Bar, a beloved local bar in the heart of San Francisco's North Beach.
Northpoint Craft Cocktails - Local Brews
0.5 km
Experience the best of San Francisco's cocktail culture at Northpoint Craft Cocktails, featuring local brews and inventive mixology in a cozy setting.
Bodega North Beach
0.6 km
Discover Bodega North Beach, your go-to wine bar in San Francisco's North Beach, offering a curated selection of wines and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Socialite Crafthouse & Kitchen
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of San Francisco at The Socialite Crafthouse & Kitchen, a brewpub where craft beer meets delicious cuisine.
Red Jack Saloon
0.7 km
Discover the lively bar scene at Red Jack Saloon, a Fisherman's Wharf gem offering great drinks and a vibrant atmosphere in San Francisco.
Bar Iris
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant fusion of cocktails and Japanese cuisine at Bar Iris, a must-visit culinary gem in San Francisco's Polk Gulch.
Hard Rock Cafe
0.8 km
Savor classic American cuisine amidst iconic rock music memorabilia at Hard Rock Cafe San Francisco, a vibrant dining experience at Fisherman’s Wharf.
Tony Nik's CAFE
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Tony Nik's CAFE, a beloved bar in San Francisco's North Beach, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
Gino & Carlo
0.9 km
Experience the lively spirit of San Francisco at Gino & Carlo, a sports bar in North Beach known for its friendly atmosphere and diverse drink selection.
Maggie McGarry's
1.0 km
Discover the vibrant spirit of Irish culture at Maggie McGarry's, a beloved pub in San Francisco's North Beach, offering delicious food and lively entertainment.
Players Sports Grill & Arcade
1.0 km
Experience the ultimate blend of food, drinks, and arcade fun at Players Sports Grill & Arcade in Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco.
Luau Lounge
1.0 km
Savor tropical flavors and stunning views at Luau Lounge, a vibrant restaurant at Pier 39, San Francisco.
Cold Drinks Bar
1.1 km
Experience the best cocktails in North Beach at Cold Drinks Bar, where creativity meets flavor in a stylish atmosphere.
The Showdown
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Showdown, a perfect blend of beer hall and casual dive bar in San Francisco’s North Beach.
The Saloon
1.1 km
Experience the lively spirit of San Francisco at The Saloon, North Beach's oldest bar, featuring live music and a welcoming atmosphere.
