San Francisco Museum of Modern Art: A Modern Masterpiece
Explore modern and contemporary art at SFMOMA, a cultural hub in San Francisco with diverse collections and engaging exhibitions.
The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA), established in 1935, stands as a beacon of modern and contemporary art on the West Coast. Housing over 33,000 works across seven floors, the museum showcases a diverse collection of painting, sculpture, photography, architecture, design, and media arts. SFMOMA offers an engaging experience with rotating exhibits, world-renowned permanent collections, and interactive public programs.
A brief summary to San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
- 151 3rd St, San Francisco, SoMa, California, 94103, US
- +1415-357-4000
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-8 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on the first Thursday of the month for free admission if you're a Bay Area resident.
- Take public transportation; SFMOMA is close to BART and Muni stations.
- Check the SFMOMA website for current exhibitions and events before your visit.
- Explore the free art spaces on the first and second floors.
- Consider purchasing a CityPASS for discounts on multiple San Francisco attractions.
Getting There
-
Public Transport
SFMOMA is easily accessible via public transportation. From the Montgomery St or Powell Street BART stations, it's a short walk. Numerous Muni bus lines also stop within a block of the museum at the intersection of Third and Mission Streets. Single ride fares for Muni are typically around $2.50. BART fares vary depending on your entry point, but a short trip within San Francisco will likely cost between $2-$4.
-
Walking
From Yerba Buena Gardens, the Moscone Center, or downtown hotels, SFMOMA is within easy walking distance. The museum's main entrance is located at 151 Third Street. Be aware of pedestrian traffic and crosswalks. Walking is free.
-
Ride Share/Taxi
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, as well as taxis, can drop you off directly at SFMOMA's Third Street entrance. A short ride from Union Square or Fisherman's Wharf will likely cost between $15-$30, depending on traffic and distance.
-
Parking
SFMOMA has its own parking garage at 147 Minna Street, a short walk from the museum's entrance. Rates vary, but expect to pay around $30-$40 for several hours. Several other parking garages are nearby, including the Hearst Garage and Jessie Square Garage. Parking rates in these garages typically range from $20-$40 for a few hours. SFMOMA members receive discounts.
Discover more about San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Old Chronicle building (Historical Landmark)
0.3 km
Discover the historic Old Chronicle Building in San Francisco's Union Square, a beautiful landmark symbolizing resilience and architectural elegance.
Phelan Building
0.4 km
Discover the historic Phelan Building in San Francisco's Union Square, a stunning architectural masterpiece steeped in rich culture and history.
Hunter-Dulin Building
0.5 km
Discover the Hunter-Dulin Building in San Francisco: A historic 1920s architectural masterpiece blending French Chateau and Romanesque styles, once home to NBC and Sam Spade's fictional office.
Frank Lloyd Wright Spiral Interior
0.5 km
Discover the stunning Frank Lloyd Wright Spiral Interior in San Francisco—a historical landmark showcasing architectural innovation and artistic beauty.
The Samuels Clock
0.5 km
A historic San Francisco landmark on Market Street, the Samuels Clock has stood since 1915, witnessing the city's evolution and embodying its enduring spirit.
Flood Building
0.5 km
Experience San Francisco history at the Flood Building, a Beaux-Arts landmark in Union Square, offering stunning architecture and a glimpse into the city's vibrant past.
San Francisco Ghosts
0.6 km
Explore the haunted history of San Francisco with engaging ghost tours offering thrilling stories and chilling experiences at the city's most famous haunted sites.
Cable Car Turnaround Powell St.
0.6 km
Discover the iconic Cable Car Turnaround at Powell Street, a historical landmark that showcases San Francisco's rich transportation heritage and vibrant urban culture.
California Historical Landmark 861: Site of First California State Fair
0.6 km
Explore California's rich agricultural history at the Site of the First California State Fair, a significant historical landmark in the heart of San Francisco.
The San Francisco Mint
0.6 km
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.
California Historical Landmark 83: Two Shoreline Markers
0.6 km
Discover the historical significance of the Two Shoreline Markers in San Francisco's Financial District, a must-see for maritime history enthusiasts.
Monument to American Squadron, Manila Bay
0.6 km
A historic landmark in Union Square, San Francisco, commemorating Admiral Dewey's victory at Manila Bay and offering a glimpse into a pivotal moment in American and Philippine history.
Dewey Monument
0.6 km
Explore the Dewey Monument in Union Square, a historical sculpture honoring valor and offering a vibrant backdrop to San Francisco's bustling city life.
Flatiron Building
0.6 km
Explore the iconic Flatiron Building in San Francisco, a stunning architectural marvel that beautifully captures the city's historical essence and vibrant atmosphere.
Belden Place
0.6 km
Discover a taste of Europe in the heart of San Francisco's Financial District at Belden Place, a charming alleyway known for its vibrant al fresco dining and diverse culinary scene.
Unmissable attractions to see
Museum of the African Diaspora
0.1 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant art and history of the African diaspora at San Francisco's Museum of the African Diaspora.
SoMa
0.1 km
Explore SoMa: San Francisco's vibrant hub of culture, innovation, and sports, blending historic charm with modern attractions.
California Historical Society
0.1 km
Discover California's vibrant history at the California Historical Society, where stories of the past come to life through engaging exhibits and rich archives.
Yerba Buena Gardens
0.1 km
Discover art, culture, and recreation in the heart of San Francisco at Yerba Buena Gardens, a vibrant urban oasis for all ages.
The Contemporary Jewish Museum
0.2 km
Explore contemporary perspectives on Jewish culture, history, and art at San Francisco's dynamic Contemporary Jewish Museum.
Children's Creativity Museum
0.3 km
Inspiring creativity and collaboration in children through hands-on art, technology, and multimedia experiences in the heart of San Francisco.
Yerba Buena Ice Skating & Bowling Center
0.3 km
Experience the thrill of ice skating and bowling year-round in San Francisco's vibrant SoMa district at the Yerba Buena Ice Skating & Bowling Center.
Lotta's Fountain
0.3 km
Discover the beauty and history of Lotta's Fountain, a charming landmark in San Francisco's Union Square, perfect for a leisurely visit.
The Selfie Market
0.4 km
Explore The Selfie Market in San Francisco – the ultimate museum for selfie lovers featuring vibrant installations and interactive experiences.
The Escape Game San Francisco (Downtown)
0.5 km
Discover the thrill of escape rooms in the heart of San Francisco at The Escape Game, where adventure awaits around every corner.
Hallidie Building
0.5 km
A pioneering architectural marvel in San Francisco's Financial District, featuring a revolutionary glass curtain wall design from 1918.
Union Square
0.5 km
Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Union Square, San Francisco's premier destination for shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
Angel Island Immigration Station Foundation
0.5 km
Explore the rich history of immigration in America at the Angel Island Immigration Station Foundation, a pivotal site of cultural significance in San Francisco.
Salesforce Tower
0.6 km
San Francisco's tallest skyscraper, Salesforce Tower, is a modern architectural marvel embodying innovation, sustainability, and breathtaking city views, seamlessly integrated with the Salesforce Transit Center.
Hearts of San Francico Art Sculpture
0.6 km
Explore the vibrant Hearts of San Francisco Art Sculpture in Union Square, a captivating tribute to the city's creativity and love.
Essential places to dine
Mourad
0.2 km
Experience exquisite Californian cuisine with Moroccan flair at Mourad, San Francisco's premier fine dining destination.
MKT Restaurant and Bar
0.3 km
Discover the culinary delights at MKT Restaurant and Bar in San Francisco—where New American cuisine meets sophisticated dining.
The Rotunda
0.5 km
Experience upscale American dining at The Rotunda in San Francisco's Union Square with stunning views and an exquisite menu.
LUCE
0.5 km
Discover culinary artistry at LUCE - a Modern European gem in San Francisco's SoMa district offering exquisite dishes and fine wines.
ONE65 San Francisco
0.6 km
Experience the best of French cuisine at ONE65 in San Francisco's Union Square – a delightful blend of fine dining and charming bistro atmosphere.
E&O Kitchen and Bar
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia at E&O Kitchen and Bar in San Francisco's Union Square – where tradition meets innovation.
Mathilde French Bistro
0.6 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Mathilde French Bistro in San Francisco's SoMa district, where elegance meets culinary artistry.
Café de la Presse
0.7 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Café de la Presse in San Francisco's Union Square - your cozy bistro for brunch, lunch, and delightful desserts.
Kin Khao
0.7 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors at Kin Khao in San Francisco's Union Square – where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
Bouche
0.7 km
Discover the essence of French fine dining at Bouche in San Francisco—where culinary artistry meets elegant ambiance.
Sears Fine Food
0.8 km
Experience the best of American comfort food and authentic Swedish cuisine at Sears Fine Food in San Francisco's vibrant Union Square.
Ula Restaurant & Tapas Bar
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine at Ula Restaurant & Tapas Bar in Union Square, San Francisco - where every meal is a celebration.
Roxanne Cafe
0.8 km
Discover delicious American comfort food at Roxanne Cafe in San Francisco's Union Square—where every meal is a delightful experience.
Restaurant Jeanne D'Arc
0.9 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Restaurant Jeanne D'Arc in San Francisco's Union Square - where every dish tells a story.
Sons & Daughters
0.9 km
Discover fine dining at Sons & Daughters in Nob Hill, San Francisco - where Californian cuisine meets elegance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
SFMOMa Museum Store
0.0 km
Explore art-inspired gifts, books, and jewelry at SFMOMA Museum Store in San Francisco's vibrant SoMa district, perfect for unique souvenirs.
Angelic Pretty San Francisco
0.4 km
Discover whimsical women's fashion at Angelic Pretty San Francisco, where chic elegance meets unique Japanese-inspired designs in the heart of the city.
Hermes San Francisco Store
0.5 km
Discover unparalleled luxury at Hermes San Francisco, where elegant leather goods and fashion accessories await in the heart of Union Square.
DIOR San Francisco Post Street
0.5 km
Discover the elegance of DIOR San Francisco, where luxury women's fashion meets artistry in the heart of Union Square.
Maison Margiela San Francisco
0.5 km
Experience the cutting-edge of fashion at Maison Margiela San Francisco, where luxury meets artistic expression in an unforgettable shopping experience.
Louis Vuitton San Francisco Union Square
0.5 km
Explore the luxury of Louis Vuitton in San Francisco's Union Square, where timeless elegance meets modern sophistication in leather goods.
Urban Outfitters
0.6 km
Discover Urban Outfitters in San Francisco's Union Square, a trendy hub for fashion-forward clothing, unique home decor, and stylish accessories.
Gift Shop
0.6 km
Explore a delightful gift shop in Union Square, San Francisco, offering unique souvenirs and local treasures perfect for every traveler.
Cuyana
0.6 km
Explore Cuyana in San Francisco's Union Square: where elegance meets sustainability in women's fashion.
Fashion House & Gifts
0.7 km
Explore the vibrant treasures of Fashion House & Gifts in San Francisco's Chinatown—unique gifts and souvenirs that celebrate the city's culture.
Butterfly's Gift Shop Inc
0.7 km
Explore Butterfly's Gift Shop Inc in San Francisco's Chinatown for unique gifts and unforgettable souvenirs that reflect the city's vibrant culture.
Saks Fifth Avenue
0.7 km
Discover the ultimate luxury shopping experience at Saks Fifth Avenue in San Francisco's Union Square, featuring top designer brands and exquisite accessories.
China Station
0.7 km
Explore the authentic treasures of Chinatown at China Station, your go-to gift shop for traditional crafts and unique home goods.
Oriental Treasures San Francisco
0.8 km
Explore a treasure trove of Asian artifacts and unique gifts at Oriental Treasures in San Francisco's enchanting Chinatown.
Secret Shop
0.9 km
Explore the eclectic treasures of Secret Shop in San Francisco's Union Square for unique gifts and local art that perfectly capture the city's spirit.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Local Edition
0.3 km
Discover Local Edition, San Francisco's stylish cocktail bar blending innovative drinks and vibrant ambiance for an unforgettable night out.
The House Of Shields
0.3 km
Experience the blend of history and vibrant nightlife at The House Of Shields, a must-visit bar in San Francisco's Financial District.
Iron Horse Cocktails
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and innovative cocktails at Iron Horse Cocktails in San Francisco's lively Union Square.
83 Proof
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of San Francisco at 83 Proof, a bar offering innovative cocktails and delicious food in the heart of the Financial District.
Rickhouse
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail culture of San Francisco at Rickhouse, where craft meets creativity in a chic bar ambiance.
Harlan Records
0.6 km
Discover Harlan Records, the ultimate cocktail bar in San Francisco's Union Square, where exquisite drinks meet an unforgettable vinyl experience.
Johnny Foley's Irish House
0.7 km
Discover the heart of Ireland in San Francisco at Johnny Foley's Irish House, where lively music and delicious food create unforgettable moments.
Clock Bar
0.7 km
Discover Clock Bar in Union Square: A chic lounge and restaurant offering exquisite cocktails and delectable bites in the heart of San Francisco.
Tunnel Top Lounge and Bar
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Tunnel Top Lounge and Bar in San Francisco, combining art, cocktails, and a unique lounge experience in Union Square.
Last Drop Tavern
0.8 km
Discover Last Drop Tavern in San Francisco's Union Square, where delicious New American cuisine meets creative cocktails in a vibrant atmosphere.
Pacific Cocktail Haven
0.9 km
Discover San Francisco's premier cocktail experience at Pacific Cocktail Haven, where innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.
Cityscape
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Cityscape, where stunning views and craft cocktails create an unforgettable bar experience in San Francisco.
718
0.9 km
Discover the unique flavors and vibrant atmosphere at 718 Lounge in San Francisco's historic Chinatown, where craft cocktails and Asian cuisine meet.
Persona
1.0 km
Discover Persona, San Francisco's stylish cocktail bar offering innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Lower Nob Hill.
Owl Tree
1.0 km
Discover Owl Tree, San Francisco's cocktail gem known for its cozy ambiance and innovative drinks perfect for any night out.