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de Young Museum: Art and Architecture in Golden Gate Park

Explore world-class art and panoramic city views at San Francisco's de Young Museum in Golden Gate Park.

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The de Young Museum, located in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park, showcases a diverse collection of American art from the 17th through 21st centuries, as well as art from Africa, Oceania, and the Americas. Its distinctive copper-clad architecture and observation tower offer a unique cultural experience.

A brief summary to de Young Museum

  • Tuesday 9:30 am-5:15 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-5:15 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-5:15 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-5:15 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-5:15 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-5:15 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on the first Tuesday of the month for free admission to the permanent collection galleries.
  • Take the elevator to the top of the Hamon Observation Tower for panoramic views of San Francisco; access is free.
  • Explore the Barbro Osher Sculpture Garden behind the museum, featuring unique and creative art pieces.
  • Check the de Young's website for information on special exhibitions and events.
  • Consider taking public transportation, walking, or biking to the museum, as parking is limited.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown San Francisco, several Muni lines provide access to the de Young Museum. The 5 Fulton bus stops near the museum's entrance at Fulton St & 10th Ave. Alternatively, take the N Judah Muni Metro to 9th Ave & Irving St, then walk about 15 minutes north through Golden Gate Park. Several other bus lines, including the 28, 28R, 44, and 5R, also stop within walking distance of the museum. A single Muni fare is about $3. Proof of purchase from any Bay Area public transportation system gets you a $2 discount.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Golden Gate Park, the de Young Museum is easily accessible by foot. From the Japanese Tea Garden or the California Academy of Sciences, walk west along the main concourse. The museum is located on the north side of the concourse, across from the Academy of Sciences. The walk from either location is approximately 5-10 minutes.

  • Ride Share/Taxi

    From Union Square, a taxi or ride-share to the de Young Museum will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The ride will cost between $21 and $28. Ask your driver to drop you off at the main entrance on Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive.

  • Parking

    Limited street parking is available on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Blue Heron Lake Drive, and Fulton Street. Paid parking is available in the Music Concourse Garage, with access from Fulton Street and 10th Avenue on the north side, and from Concourse Drive near the California Academy of Sciences on the south. Parking rates at the garage are approximately $5 per hour. Be aware of street parking restrictions and time limits.

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Discover more about de Young Museum

The de Young Museum, formally the M. H. de Young Memorial Museum, stands as a cultural landmark in the heart of Golden Gate Park. Named after early San Francisco newspaperman Michael H. de Young, the museum has evolved from its origins in the 1894 California Midwinter International Exposition to become one of the most visited museums in the United States. The museum's collections span various cultures and time periods, featuring American art from the 17th through 21st centuries, as well as art from Africa, Oceania, and the Americas. Visitors can explore paintings, sculptures, textiles, and artifacts that showcase the diverse artistic traditions of these regions. The de Young is also known for hosting special exhibitions that feature cutting-edge works from respected artists. The de Young's architecture is a striking feature, with its copper-clad exterior and iconic observation tower. The Hamon Education Tower offers panoramic views of San Francisco and the surrounding area, providing visitors with a unique perspective on the city. The Barbro Osher Sculpture Garden, located behind the museum, provides a space for visitors to appreciate unique and creative pieces of art. The museum has undergone several transformations throughout its history, including repairs after the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and the demolition of the original Egyptian-style building. The current structure, completed in 2005, was designed by Herzog & de Meuron and Fong & Chan Architects.

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