The Majestic War Memorial Opera House: A Cultural Gem of San Francisco
Discover the War Memorial Opera House, San Francisco's premier venue for opera and ballet, blending rich history with breathtaking performances.
The War Memorial Opera House in San Francisco is a must-visit for tourists who appreciate world-class performances in an architectural masterpiece. This iconic venue not only showcases the beauty of opera but also stands as a tribute to veterans, creating an atmosphere that resonates with history and culture. Whether you're an opera aficionado or a curious traveler, this venue promises a memorable experience.
A brief summary to War Memorial Opera House
- 301 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, Fillmore District, California, 94102, US
- +1415-621-6600
- Visit website
Local tips
- Book tickets in advance, especially for popular performances, to secure the best seats.
- Arrive early to explore the stunning architectural details and enjoy a drink at the nearby bars before the show.
- Check the schedule for backstage tours, which offer a unique insight into the world of opera and ballet.
- Dress elegantly, as many attendees embrace formal attire, adding to the grand atmosphere of the event.
- Take advantage of public transportation to avoid parking hassles in the busy area surrounding the opera house.
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From downtown San Mateo, walk to the San Mateo Caltrain Station located at 1 E 4th Ave. Take the northbound Caltrain towards San Francisco. The journey takes approximately 25 minutes. Disembark at the San Francisco 4th and King Station. From there, transfer to the Muni T-Third Line train by following signs to the Muni station. Board the T train towards Chinatown. After about 10 minutes, get off at the Civic Center/UN Plaza station. Walk north on 7th St towards Market St, then turn left onto Market St. Continue walking until you reach Van Ness Ave, then turn right. The War Memorial Opera House will be on your left at 301 Van Ness Ave.
-
Walking
If you are located near the San Mateo City Hall, head north on El Camino Real until you reach 3rd Ave. Turn left on 3rd Ave and walk towards the Caltrain Station. From there, take the previous instructions on Caltrain and Muni to reach the War Memorial Opera House.
-
Bus
From downtown San Mateo, walk to the nearest SamTrans bus stop. Take the SamTrans Route 292 bus towards the Millbrae Intermodal Station. At Millbrae, transfer to the BART train towards San Francisco/Daly City. Disembark at the Montgomery St. Station. From Montgomery, walk north on Montgomery St toward Post St. Continue onto 7th St, then turn left onto Market St. Walk until you reach Van Ness Ave, then turn right. The War Memorial Opera House will be on your left at 301 Van Ness Ave.
Discover more about War Memorial Opera House
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
San Francisco City Hall
0.1 km
Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of San Francisco City Hall, a stunning landmark in the heart of the city.
Statue of Abraham Lincoln
0.2 km
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
0.3 km
Explore the whimsical Ash Street, the shortest street in San Francisco, where quirky charm meets vibrant urban life in the Fillmore District.
Pioneer Monument
0.4 km
Explore the Pioneer Monument in San Francisco - a tribute to early California pioneers, adorned with intricate sculptures and rich history.
Film exchange
0.6 km
Explore the Film Exchange, a historical landmark in San Francisco's Tenderloin district, and uncover the city’s cinematic past.
Rothschild House
0.6 km
Explore Rothschild House in San Francisco's Fillmore District, a historical gem showcasing the city's rich architectural heritage and captivating stories.
United Nations Plaza Fountain
0.6 km
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
0.7 km
Discover the Sarcophagus of Thomas Starr King, a captivating historical landmark in San Francisco's Fillmore District, honoring a pivotal figure in American history.
Tenderloin Museum
0.8 km
Explore the Tenderloin Museum for an insightful journey through San Francisco's vibrant cultural and historical landscape, revealing the stories that shape the city.
California Historical Landmark 454: Site of Woodward's Gardens
1.0 km
Explore the historic site of Woodward's Gardens in San Francisco's Mission District, where nature and history intertwine in a vibrant cultural experience.
Victorian Home Walk
1.1 km
Explore the enchanting Victorian Home Walk in San Francisco, where history and architectural beauty come alive in a unique guided tour experience.
The Painted Ladies
1.1 km
Discover the charm of The Painted Ladies, iconic Victorian homes offering stunning views of San Francisco's skyline and rich historical significance.
Bush Street Temple (Soto Mission)
1.2 km
Discover the historical and cultural significance of Bush Street Temple in San Francisco's Japantown, a serene site rich in Japanese Buddhist heritage.
Hayes St
1.2 km
Discover the vibrant ambiance of Hayes Street in San Francisco, a must-visit destination for culture, dining, and shopping enthusiasts.
The San Francisco Mint
1.3 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of the San Francisco Mint, a historic landmark that embodies the spirit of the Gold Rush era.
Unmissable attractions to see
Davies Symphony Hall
0.1 km
Experience the architectural wonder and cultural richness of Davies Symphony Hall, the heart of San Francisco's vibrant music scene.
Civic Center
0.1 km
Explore Civic Center, San Francisco's architectural marvel with stunning landmarks, vibrant parks, and rich cultural experiences waiting to be discovered.
49-Mile Scenic Drive
0.2 km
Explore the stunning 49-Mile Scenic Drive in San Francisco, where iconic landmarks meet breathtaking coastal views for an unforgettable adventure.
Civic Center Plaza
0.3 km
Discover Civic Center Plaza, a cultural hub in San Francisco, surrounded by iconic architecture, vibrant events, and lush green spaces.
Heart of the City Farmers' Market
0.4 km
Discover fresh produce, local flavors, and a vibrant community spirit at San Francisco's Heart of the City Farmers' Market, a culinary gem in the Civic Center.
Asian Art Museum
0.4 km
Explore the vast and intricate world of Asian art at the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco, where history and culture come alive.
Sidewalk Food Tours of San Francisco
0.4 km
Discover the flavors of San Francisco with Sidewalk Food Tours, where every bite tells a story in the city's vibrant culinary scene.
Orpheum Theatre
0.5 km
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
0.7 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Saint Boniface Catholic Church, a serene retreat in the heart of San Francisco's Tenderloin district.
Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption
0.8 km
Explore the stunning Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption, a modern architectural marvel and serene spiritual haven in San Francisco.
Essential places to dine
Absinthe Brasserie & Bar
0.3 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine and vibrant atmosphere at Absinthe Brasserie & Bar in San Francisco's Civic Center.
Kiln
0.3 km
Discover Kiln: A premier fine dining destination in San Francisco offering innovative cuisine and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Monsieur Benjamin
0.3 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Monsieur Benjamin in Hayes Valley - where modern flavors meet timeless tradition.
Chez Maman West
0.3 km
Savor authentic French cuisine at Chez Maman West in Hayes Valley - where culinary passion meets inviting ambiance.
Nightbird
0.3 km
Experience exquisite Californian cuisine at Nightbird, San Francisco's premier fine dining destination known for its innovative dishes and elegant atmosphere.
a Mano
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at a Mano in Hayes Valley - where fresh ingredients meet culinary creativity.
Rich Table
0.5 km
Discover Rich Table: A top-rated New American restaurant in San Francisco’s Lower Haight serving innovative dishes crafted from local ingredients.
Brenda's French Soul Food
0.5 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at Brenda's French Soul Food in San Francisco—where every bite tells a story of rich culinary tradition.
Son and Garden
0.5 km
Discover Son and Garden: A delightful New American dining experience in San Francisco's Tenderloin with fresh flavors and seasonal menus.
Suppenküche
0.6 km
Experience authentic German cuisine at Suppenküche in San Francisco's Hayes Valley - where every dish tells a story.
Petit Crenn
0.6 km
Discover the artful blend of tradition and innovation at Petit Crenn, a premier French restaurant in San Francisco's Hayes Valley.
AsiaSF
0.8 km
Discover AsiaSF: where delicious Asian fusion cuisine meets spectacular cabaret performances in the heart of San Francisco.
1601 Bar & Kitchen
0.8 km
Experience authentic Sri Lankan cuisine at 1601 Bar & Kitchen - where tradition meets modern fine dining in San Francisco's SoMa district.
Birdsong
0.9 km
Discover Birdsong: A premier fine dining restaurant in San Francisco offering innovative American cuisine and an unforgettable culinary experience.
Burma Love - Mission
1.0 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of authentic Burmese cuisine at Burma Love in San Francisco's Mission District - a true culinary delight.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
minimal
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish furniture, and exquisite jewelry at Minimal in San Francisco's Civic Center. A treasure for every taste!
Polk market&gift shop
0.5 km
Explore Polk Market & Gift Shop for unique souvenirs and local essentials in the heart of San Francisco's vibrant Tenderloin district.
Cha May Ching Museum Boutique
0.5 km
Discover unique Asian art and cultural gifts at Cha May Ching Museum Boutique in San Francisco's Civic Center.
Reliquary
0.5 km
Explore Reliquary, a boutique in San Francisco's Hayes Valley offering vintage clothing and unique jewelry reflecting the city's artistic spirit.
Metier
0.5 km
Discover unique, artisan-crafted jewelry at Metier in the heart of Hayes Valley, San Francisco's chic shopping destination.
New Horizons gift shop
0.6 km
Explore New Horizons Gift Shop for unique souvenirs and trendy accessories in the heart of San Francisco's SoMa district.
COVE
1.2 km
Discover unique gifts at COVE, a charming shop in San Francisco's Lower Haight, showcasing local artisans and eclectic treasures.
Life
1.3 km
Explore Life, a boutique gift shop in Lower Haight, San Francisco, offering unique aromatherapy, jewelry, candles, and artisan treasures.
No Shop
1.3 km
Explore No Shop in San Francisco's Mission District for unique vintage finds and sustainable fashion at affordable prices.
Urban Outfitters
1.3 km
Discover Urban Outfitters in San Francisco's Union Square, a trendy hub for fashion-forward clothing, unique home decor, and stylish accessories.
Cali Gifts & More
1.4 km
Explore the charm of Cali Gifts & More in San Francisco's Nob Hill, your go-to destination for unique souvenirs and local treasures.
Gift Shop
1.4 km
Explore a delightful gift shop in Union Square, San Francisco, offering unique souvenirs and local treasures perfect for every traveler.
Cuyana
1.5 km
Explore Cuyana in San Francisco's Union Square: where elegance meets sustainability in women's fashion.
Secret Shop
1.5 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.
Louis Vuitton San Francisco Union Square
1.5 km
Explore the luxury of Louis Vuitton in San Francisco's Union Square, where timeless elegance meets modern sophistication in leather goods.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Smuggler's Cove
0.3 km
Discover the enchanting atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at Smuggler's Cove, San Francisco's premier cocktail bar and rum haven.
Bourbon & Branch
1.0 km
Discover the speakeasy charm of Bourbon & Branch, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a vibrant San Francisco atmosphere.
Rye Cocktail Bar
1.0 km
Discover Rye Cocktail Bar in San Francisco, a cocktail haven with expertly mixed drinks and a lively atmosphere perfect for any evening out.
Sluts the wine bar
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant SoMa district with exquisite wines and a cozy atmosphere at Sluts the Wine Bar in San Francisco.
The Majestic Butterfly Lounge
1.1 km
Experience the art of mixology at The Majestic Butterfly Lounge, a stylish cocktail bar in San Francisco's Cathedral Hill, perfect for a vibrant night out.
Dahlia SF
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of San Francisco at Dahlia SF, a bar known for its creative cocktails and lively atmosphere in the heart of the Mission District.
Cityscape
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Cityscape, where stunning views and craft cocktails create an unforgettable bar experience in San Francisco.
Noc Noc
1.2 km
Discover Noc Noc, a vibrant bar in San Francisco's Lower Haight, offering creative cocktails and a unique atmosphere perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Owl Tree
1.3 km
Discover Owl Tree, San Francisco's cocktail gem known for its cozy ambiance and innovative drinks perfect for any night out.
Johnny Foley's Irish House
1.3 km
Discover the heart of Ireland in San Francisco at Johnny Foley's Irish House, where lively music and delicious food create unforgettable moments.
Persona
1.4 km
Discover Persona, San Francisco's stylish cocktail bar offering innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Lower Nob Hill.
Kozy Kar
1.4 km
Experience the unique charm of Kozy Kar, a vibrant bar in San Francisco's Polk Gulch, known for its water mattresses and friendly atmosphere.
Clock Bar
1.5 km
Discover Clock Bar in Union Square: A chic lounge and restaurant offering exquisite cocktails and delectable bites in the heart of San Francisco.
Blackbird
1.5 km
Experience the best of San Francisco nightlife at Blackbird Bar, where craft cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere await.
ABV
1.5 km
Discover ABV in San Francisco: a vibrant bar and restaurant known for its craft cocktails and seasonal dishes, perfect for any culinary adventure.
