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The Walt Disney Family Museum: Celebrating a Legacy of Innovation

Explore the life, legacy, and creative genius of Walt Disney at this immersive San Francisco museum in the Presidio.

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Located in San Francisco's Presidio, the Walt Disney Family Museum chronicles the life and achievements of Walt Disney. Through interactive exhibits, rare artifacts, and personal stories, visitors explore Disney's journey from humble beginnings to animation pioneer, offering a glimpse into the creation of beloved characters and groundbreaking entertainment.

A brief summary to The Walt Disney Family Museum

  • Thursday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5:30 pm

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance to secure your preferred entry time, especially during peak seasons.
  • Allow at least two to three hours to fully explore the museum's galleries and exhibits.
  • Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds.
  • Check the museum's calendar for special events, film screenings, and workshops.
  • Take time to read and interact with the displays, as they offer detailed descriptions and insights into Disney's life and work.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown San Francisco, the Muni Route 43 offers a direct connection to the Presidio Transit Center. From there, walk down Lincoln Boulevard towards the Golden Gate Bridge, then turn left onto Montgomery Street. The museum will be on your right. A single Muni fare costs $3.

  • Walking

    From the Lombard Street Gate entrance to the Presidio, follow Lombard Street until it becomes Presidio Boulevard. Continue on Lincoln Boulevard until you reach the Main Post parking lot on the left. The museum is a short walk from the parking lot. Note that this is a moderately steep walk.

  • Driving

    From Highway 101 after passing the Golden Gate Bridge toll plaza, follow signs for the Presidio and take the 101 South-Downtown/Lombard Street Exit. Follow Gorgas Avenue, turn left onto O'Reilly Avenue, then right onto Edie Road, and left onto Girard Avenue before turning right onto Lincoln Boulevard. The museum will be on the left. Parking is available in the Main Post parking lot for a fee. Metered parking is available for $3 for 2 hours.

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Discover more about The Walt Disney Family Museum

The Walt Disney Family Museum, nestled in the scenic Presidio of San Francisco, offers an immersive journey into the extraordinary life and legacy of Walt Disney. Housed in a retrofitted historic building that once served as an Army barracks, the museum features ten permanent galleries that trace Disney's path from his early years through his groundbreaking achievements in animation and entertainment. Visitors can explore Disney's family history, early artistic endeavors, and the creation of iconic characters like Mickey Mouse. The museum showcases his pioneering spirit, highlighting the innovations in animation technology, including the introduction of Technicolor and the development of audio-animatronics. Exhibits also delve into Disney's expansion into television and the creation of Disneyland, offering a glimpse into his vision for the future of entertainment. A highlight for many is the meticulously crafted miniature-scale model of Disneyland, showcasing a highlight reel of attractions. The museum also displays a collection of the numerous awards Disney received throughout his career, including Academy Awards and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The museum provides educational opportunities with art and animation classes for all ages, and screenings of classic Disney films. The museum doesn't shy away from the challenges and less favorable moments in the studio's history, offering a balanced perspective on Disney's life and career. The final gallery poignantly addresses Walt Disney's death in 1966, marking the end of an era.

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