Davies Symphony Hall: A Modern Temple of Sound

Experience world-class music in a modern architectural masterpiece at Davies Symphony Hall in San Francisco's vibrant Civic Center.

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Davies Symphony Hall

Davies Symphony Hall, home to the San Francisco Symphony, is a modern architectural marvel renowned for its exceptional acoustics and elegant design. Opened in 1980, it offers a year-round schedule of classical concerts and diverse events in San Francisco's Civic Center.

A brief summary to Davies Symphony Hall

201 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, Civic Center, California, 94102, US

Local tips

Arrive early to explore the lobby and enjoy views of San Francisco's City Hall and the War Memorial Opera House.
Consider attending a Monday tour to learn about the hall's unique acoustic features, including the adjustable acrylic sound reflectors.
Check the SF Symphony's website for the latest schedule of concerts and events.
Use public transportation (Muni or BART) to avoid parking hassles in the Civic Center area.
Be aware of the War Memorial and Performing Arts Center's bag policy: all bags are subject to search and must fit under your seat.

Getting There

Public Transport

Davies Symphony Hall is easily accessible via public transportation. From the Civic Center BART station or Muni Metro Van Ness or Civic Center stations, it's a short walk to the hall. Muni offers single rides for $3.00 cash or $2.85 with a Clipper card or MuniMobile. A day pass for unlimited rides on Muni buses, trains, and streetcars is $5.70. BART fares vary depending on the distance traveled. From the Ferry Building, you can take a Muni Metro tram directly to Van Ness Station for approximately $2.85.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services offer a convenient way to reach Davies Symphony Hall. From downtown San Francisco, a taxi ride will cost approximately $15-$25, depending on traffic. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may have variable pricing. Taxis in San Francisco charge $4.15 for the first one-fifth of a mile, $0.65 for each additional one-fifth of a mile, and $0.65 for each minute of waiting time. Keep in mind that fares can increase during peak hours.
Walking

Davies Symphony Hall is located in the Civic Center area and is easily walkable from many nearby attractions and hotels. From City Hall, it's a short 5-10 minute walk. From the Asian Art Museum, head west on McAllister Street, then turn left onto Van Ness Avenue. The hall will be on your right.
Parking

While Davies Symphony Hall does not have on-site parking, several parking garages are located nearby. The Performing Arts Garage at 360 Grove Street and the Civic Center Garage at 355 McAllister Street are both within walking distance. Parking rates vary, but you can expect to pay $25-$40 for several hours. Consider booking a parking spot in advance using SpotHero or other parking apps to guarantee a space and potentially save money. Be aware that street parking in the area is limited and metered.

Discover more about Davies Symphony Hall

Davies Symphony Hall, located in San Francisco's Civic Center, is a premier music venue and the permanent home of the San Francisco Symphony. Completed in 1980, the 2,743-seat hall was designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill and Pietro Belluschi with acoustics as a primary focus. The hall is named for Louise M. Davies, a generous benefactor who supported the arts. The hall's modern design complements the Beaux-Arts style of neighboring buildings like the War Memorial Opera House and City Hall. The exterior features a glass facade that provides views of the Civic Center Plaza and fills the lobby with natural light. A unique "building-within-a-building" design insulates the performance space from city noise and vibrations. The interior boasts a warm, elegant, and harmonious design. A distinctive feature is the "cloud" of movable, convex acrylic reflecting panels above the stage, which can be adjusted to optimize the acoustics for different performances. Adjustable fabric banners around the auditorium further enhance the sound. In addition to the main hall, the building includes the Harold L. Zellerbach Rehearsal Hall, offices, a music library, and other amenities for the symphony. Davies Symphony Hall not only hosts the San Francisco Symphony but also welcomes a variety of other performances, including recitals and contemporary music concerts. The hall is easily accessible via public transportation, with nearby Muni Metro and BART stations.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

San Francisco City Hall

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Statue of Abraham Lincoln

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Discover the inspiring Statue of Abraham Lincoln in San Francisco's Civic Center, a must-visit for history lovers and art enthusiasts alike.

The Shortest Street in San Francisco

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Rothschild House

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Discover the Rothschild House in San Francisco's Fillmore District, a beautifully preserved Italianate landmark offering a glimpse into the city's rich history and architectural heritage.

United Nations Plaza Fountain

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Discover tranquility at the United Nations Plaza Fountain in San Francisco, a vibrant cultural hub and a perfect spot for relaxation and reflection.

Sarcophagus of Thomas Starr King

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Visit the Sarcophagus of Thomas Starr King in San Francisco, a tribute to the influential Unitarian minister and orator who helped keep California in the Union during the Civil War, located at the First Unitarian Universalist Society.

California Historical Landmark 454: Site of Woodward's Gardens

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Explore the historic site of Woodward's Gardens in San Francisco's Mission District, where nature and history intertwine in a vibrant cultural experience.

California Historical Landmark 454: Site of Woodward's Gardens

Tenderloin Museum

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Explore the Tenderloin Museum for an insightful journey through San Francisco's vibrant cultural and historical landscape, revealing the stories that shape the city.

The Painted Ladies

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Discover the charm of The Painted Ladies, iconic Victorian homes offering stunning views of San Francisco's skyline and rich historical significance.

Hayes St

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Explore Hayes Street in San Francisco: A vibrant hub of boutiques, restaurants, and culture in historic Hayes Valley, offering a unique urban experience.

Bush Street Temple (Soto Mission)

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Discover the Bush Street Temple in San Francisco's Japantown: a historic landmark blending Moorish and Venetian architecture with a rich legacy of Jewish and Buddhist heritage.

The San Francisco Mint

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Discover San Francisco's 'Granite Lady,' a historic mint transformed into a premier event venue, offering a glimpse into the Gold Rush era and a unique space for unforgettable gatherings.

Victorian houses at McAllister st.

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Experience San Francisco's architectural heritage with a stroll along McAllister Street, where vibrant Victorian houses showcase the city's rich history in the heart of the Fillmore District.

Cable Car Turnaround Powell St.

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Discover the iconic Cable Car Turnaround at Powell Street, a historical landmark that showcases San Francisco's rich transportation heritage and vibrant urban culture.

William Westerfeld House

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Explore the William Westerfeld House, a stunning Victorian landmark in San Francisco's Fillmore District, showcasing exquisite architecture and rich history.

Unmissable attractions to see

Civic Center

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Explore Civic Center, San Francisco's architectural marvel with stunning landmarks, vibrant parks, and rich cultural experiences waiting to be discovered.

War Memorial Opera House

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Experience the grandeur of the War Memorial Opera House in San Francisco, where world-class performances and stunning architecture await every visitor.

49-Mile Scenic Drive

0.2 km

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

Civic Center Plaza

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Discover Civic Center Plaza, a cultural hub in San Francisco, surrounded by iconic architecture, vibrant events, and lush green spaces.

Sidewalk Food Tours of San Francisco

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Discover the flavors of San Francisco with Sidewalk Food Tours, where every bite tells a story in the city's vibrant culinary scene.

Heart of the City Farmers' Market

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Discover the vibrant Heart of the City Farmers' Market in San Francisco, where fresh produce, artisanal treats, and local flavors come together in a lively community atmosphere.

Asian Art Museum

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Explore an extraordinary collection of Asian art at the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco, showcasing pieces that span 6,000 years of history.

Orpheum Theatre

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Experience the enchanting Orpheum Theatre, a historic jewel of San Francisco's performing arts scene, offering unforgettable shows in a stunning architectural setting.

Saint Boniface Catholic Church

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Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Saint Boniface Catholic Church, a serene retreat in the heart of San Francisco's Tenderloin district.

Hayes Valley

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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

minimal

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Reliquary

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Metier

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New Horizons gift shop

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Cha May Ching Museum Boutique

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Polk market&gift shop

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COVE

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No Shop

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Life

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Urban Outfitters

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Gift Shop

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Rare Device

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Cali Gifts & More

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The Perish Trust

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Cuyana

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Discover Clock Bar in Union Square: A chic lounge and restaurant offering exquisite cocktails and delectable bites in the heart of San Francisco.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

OASIS

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Eve Nightclub & Lounge

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Halcyon SF

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Audio Nightclub

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F8 Nightclub & Bar

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Cat Club

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DNA Lounge

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Club Six

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Raven Bar

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Monarch

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Pura Club

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Pa'ina Restaurant & Lounge

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Providence Night Club

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The EndUp

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Sam's Cable Car Lounge

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Davies Symphony Hall: A Modern Temple of Sound

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A brief summary to Davies Symphony Hall

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Taxi/Ride-Share

Walking

Parking

Unlock the Best of Davies Symphony Hall

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Davies Symphony Hall

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

San Francisco City Hall

Statue of Abraham Lincoln

The Shortest Street in San Francisco

Rothschild House

United Nations Plaza Fountain

Sarcophagus of Thomas Starr King

California Historical Landmark 454: Site of Woodward's Gardens

Tenderloin Museum

The Painted Ladies

Hayes St

Bush Street Temple (Soto Mission)

The San Francisco Mint

Victorian houses at McAllister st.

Cable Car Turnaround Powell St.

William Westerfeld House

Unmissable attractions to see

Civic Center

War Memorial Opera House

49-Mile Scenic Drive

Civic Center Plaza

Sidewalk Food Tours of San Francisco

Heart of the City Farmers' Market

Asian Art Museum

Orpheum Theatre

Saint Boniface Catholic Church

Hayes Valley

Essential places to dine

Kiln

Absinthe Brasserie & Bar

Nightbird

Chez Maman West

Monsieur Benjamin

a Mano

Rich Table

Suppenküche

Petit Crenn

Brenda's French Soul Food

Son and Garden

AsiaSF

1601 Bar & Kitchen

Burma Love - Mission

Birdsong

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

minimal

Reliquary

Metier

New Horizons gift shop

Cha May Ching Museum Boutique

Polk market&gift shop

COVE

No Shop

Life

Urban Outfitters

Gift Shop

Rare Device

Cali Gifts & More

The Perish Trust

Cuyana

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Smuggler's Cove

Dahlia SF

Sluts the wine bar

Bourbon & Branch