de Young Museum
Discover the Artistic Oasis of de Young Museum
de Young Museum: Art, Architecture, and Golden Gate Park Views
Explore American and international art at the de Young Museum, a cultural landmark in Golden Gate Park with stunning architecture and panoramic views.
Located in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park, the de Young Museum showcases American art from the 17th-21st centuries, along with international textiles, costumes, and art from Africa, Oceania, and the Americas. Its copper-clad exterior and observation tower offer stunning views of the city and park.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to de Young Museum
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr, San Francisco, Golden Gate Park, California, 94118, US
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
Other nearby places you may find interesting
Explore places near de Young Museum
Getting There
Walking
From the Japanese Tea Garden or the California Academy of Sciences, the de Young Museum is a short walk. Head west from the Tea Garden, or directly across the Music Concourse from the Academy of Sciences. The museum's distinctive copper tower is easily visible.
Public Transport
Several Muni lines serve Golden Gate Park. The 5 Fulton and 5R Fulton Rapid lines stop near the park's north side. The N Judah light rail line stops at 9th Avenue and Irving Street, a moderate walk south into the park. From there, walk north through the park towards the Music Concourse. Muni fares are around $3 per ride. A day pass may offer better value if you plan to use Muni extensively.
Ride Share/Taxi
Request a drop-off at the intersection of Nancy Pelosi Drive and JFK Drive. Note that JFK Drive is car-free. From there, it's a short walk to the museum. A taxi or rideshare from downtown San Francisco will cost approximately $17-21.
Driving
Limited street parking is available on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive and Fulton Street. Paid parking is available in the Music Concourse Garage. Enter from either side of the concourse. As of July 2025, the garage costs $5.25 per hour on weekdays and $6.25 per hour on weekends. Tolls are not applicable when approaching the museum.
Local tips
✓
Visit on the first Tuesday of the month for free admission to the permanent collection galleries.
✓
Bay Area residents get free admission to the permanent collection on Saturdays with proof of residency.
✓
Don't miss the Hamon Observation Tower for panoramic views of Golden Gate Park and San Francisco.
✓
Check the museum's website for information on current special exhibitions and events.
✓
Take valuables out of your car, even when parking in the Music Concourse Garage.
Discover more about de Young Museum
The de Young Museum, formally the M. H. de Young Memorial Museum, is a fine arts museum in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park. Named after newspaperman Michael H. de Young, it originated from the California Midwinter International Exposition of 1894. The museum opened in 1895, initially displaying painting, sculpture, decorative arts, and historical objects.
The current building, designed by Herzog & de Meuron, opened in 2005. Its distinctive copper facade is designed to blend with the park environment as it oxidizes over time. The design incorporates historical elements like the Pool of Enchantment and sphinxes from the original museum. A 144-foot observation tower provides panoramic views.
The de Young's collections include American art from the 17th through 21st centuries, textile arts and costumes from around the world, and art from Africa, Oceania, and the Americas. The museum frequently hosts special exhibitions. The Hamon Education Tower, lobby, and observation level are free to the public.
A brief summary to de Young Museum
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
Get the 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 San Leandro
Discover San Leandro, a hidden gem in California's Bay Area, known for its rich history, beautiful parks, and annual Cherry Festival—perfect for year-round adventures.
Tell me more about San Leandro