Mario BottaA museum is a spiritual place. People lower their voices when they approach art. .
San Francisco, a city alive with history, creativity, and diversity, is also home to remarkable museums and one of the most extensive cultural offerings in the United States. With an undeniable passion for art, science, architecture, and innovation, this California metropolis turns any museum visit into a unique experience. Whether you’re looking for cutting-edge exhibitions, historical collections, or interactive spaces for a family outing, there’s a place here for every curious mind. Best of all, many are free or offer no-cost days, making this cultural journey accessible to everyone.
Spoiler: After this post, visiting museums will be your new #1 plan!
Must-visit museums in San Francisco
From classic to cutting-edge, San Francisco is home to museums whose diversity amazes every visitor. This city doesn’t just display art, it reinvents it, shares it, and lives it in a thousand different ways. If you’re planning a visit, these destinations showcase the very best of its cultural scene. Here are the top picks:
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA)
If contemporary art is your thing, SFMOMA is a must-see. Located in the SoMa district, this museum is not only one of the largest of its kind in the country, but also boasts architecture that turns heads. Redesigned by Swiss architect Mario Botta and expanded with a modern style that perfectly complements its collection, it’s a work of art in itself. Inside, you’ll find more than 33,000 pieces by artists such as Frida Kahlo, Andy Warhol, and Jackson Pollock. There are also temporary exhibitions that often break the mold, as well as interactive areas that add an extra layer of excitement to the visit.
Location  | 151 3rd St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States |
Hours  | – Thursday: 12:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. – Friday to Tuesday: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. |
Tickets  | – Adults: from $30 USD. – Under 18: free entry – Seniors (65+): from $25 USD. – Students with valid ID: from $23 USD. |
Featured works | “Woman with a Parrot” by Pablo Picasso, “Electric Chair” by Andy Warhol, “The Pool” by David Hockney. |
Asian Art Museum
Located near the Civic Center, the Asian Art Museum is a gem for anyone who appreciates Eastern art. It houses pieces dating back thousands of years from regions such as China, Japan, Korea, Southeast Asia, and South Asia. The experience goes beyond simple observation, the museum offers workshops, talks, and guided tours that immerse you in the traditions and philosophies of these countries. If you’re interested in understanding the history and aesthetics that have shaped the Asian continent, this is the perfect stop for you.
| Location | 200 Larkin St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States. |
| Hours | – Thursday: 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. – Friday to Monday: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. |
| Prices | – Adults: from $20 USD. – Seniors (65+): from $17 USD. – Youth (13 – 17): from $14 USD. – Children under 12: free entry. – Thursdays after 5:00 p.m.: half price. – Students, college students (with valid ID): from $14 USD. – Free on the first Sunday of every month. |
| Renowned artists | – Ai Weiwei (China), sculpture. – Yayoi Kusama (Japan), sculpture. – Zhang Daquian (China), calligraphy. – Rabindranath Tagore (India), painting. – Katsushika Hokusai (Japan), printmaking. |
Exploratorium: one of the best hands-on museums in San Francisco
Discover what is arguably the most fun museum in San Francisco. At the Exploratorium, everything can be touched, listened to, and experimented with. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with family, yet it also captivates adults with its interactive science approach.
You’ll find sections dedicated to the study of the human body, light, perception, and the natural world. It’s located at Pier 15, and even from the outside, you’ll feel invited to interact. . If you’ve ever dreamed of learning through play, this place makes it a reality!
You’ll find a wide variety of experiences, activities, and exhibits, some permanent, but the charm of this place lies in its constant change and experimentation with different scientific and natural phenomena.
The permanent exhibitions are:
- Osher Gallery – Human Phenomena (Kevin Boyd, Alex Pinigis, Ron Hipschman)
- Tinkering Gallery – Creative Workshop (Karen Wilkinson, Mike Petrich)
- Bechtel Gallery – Seeing and Reflections (Larry Shaw)
- Moore Gallery – Living Systems (Kevin Boyd)
- Outdoor Gallery – Outdoor Exhibits (Ned Kahn)
- Gallery 6 – Bay Observatory / Observing Landscapes (Susan Schwartzberg, Sebastian Martin, Kevin Boyd)
| Location | Muelle 15 Embarcadero en Green St, San Francisco, CA 94111, United States. |
| Hours | – Sunday: 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. – Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. – Thursday: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. |
| Admission prices | – Seniors (65+): from $29.95 USD. – Youth (ages 4 – 17): from $29.95 USD. – Adults (ages 18 – 64): from $39.95 USD. – Teachers or students over 18: from $29.95 USD. |
Legion of Honor Museum
The Legion of Honor Museum in San Francisco is pure classic art. Its neoclassical building, modeled after the Palais de la Legion d’Honneur in Paris, sets the tone for what you’ll find inside: sculptures, paintings, and objects ranging from antiquity to the 20th century. It’s perfect for lovers of European art movements, featuring works by Monet, Rodin, and other giants of art history. Plus, it’s surrounded by nature and offers stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, a combination of art and scenery that’s hard to beat!
Location: 100 34th Ave, Lincoln Park, San Francisco
Admission prices 
- Adults (18 and over): from $15 USD.
- Seniors (65+): from $12 USD.
- Youth (ages 13 – 17): from $6 USD
- Children under 12: free
- Museum members: free
Working hours
- Tuesday to Sunday: 9:30 a.m. – 5:15 p.m. (last admission at 4:30 p.m.)
- Monday : closed
- July 4 / December 24 / December 31: 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- January 1, Thanksgiving, December 25: closed
Alcatraz: history, mystery, and stunning views
More than just a prison, Alcatraz is a window into the past. This small island in the middle of the bay once housed some of the most notorious criminals in the United States, and today its guided tour offers an immersive mix of history, suspense, and natural beauty. The audio guide is narrated by former guards and inmates, giving the experience an authentic edge. Plus, the island boasts spectacular views of the San Francisco skyline. A must-visit if you enjoy intense stories and places that capture you the moment you set foot on them.
To visit the prison, the best option is to book a tour with Alcatraz City Cruises, the only company authorized to operate from Pier 33. There are both daytime and nighttime options, all including access to the island, an audio guide, and plenty of time if you want to explore at your own pace. Prices start at around $45 USD per adult, and it’s best to book in advance as tickets often sell out, especially during peak season.
Best free museums in San Francisco
Exploring without spending is also possible in San Francisco. The city has several cultural institutions with free admission, opening the door to an enriching experience without affecting your budget. These spaces let you enjoy art and history with total freedom. Sometimes the best finds are where you least expect them!
Musee Mecanique
Get ready to travel back in time! 🕰️ Right on Pier 39, the Musee Mecanique is a true time capsule. It houses more than 300 antique arcade machines, many of which still work. Some date back to the early 20th century and show how past generations entertained themselves. You can try mechanical games, watch quirky animations, or simply let yourself be carried away by nostalgia. It’s an unconventional museum, but one full of charm and personality. Plus, admission is free, perfect for a unique stop during your stroll along the bay.
Location: Pier 45, Fishermen’s Wharf foot of Taylor Street, San Francisco.
Hours of operation
- Monday to Friday: 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- Saturday to Sunday: 10:00 a. m. to 8:00 p. m.
- Holidays: 10:00 a. m. to 8:00 p. m.
👉 Are you enjoying this tour? There are still more spots that will amaze you.
Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco
Set beside a lagoon and surrounded by meticulously maintained gardens, the Palace of Fine Arts is an architectural gem from the legacy of the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition. It’s one of the most photographed landmarks in San Francisco and an ideal stop for those seeking art, history, and nature all in one place.
Access to the gardens and outdoor areas is completely free and available every day, making the palace a great option for relaxing or having a picnic with a spectacular view. However, it’s important to note that entry to the building’s interior is not permanently open to the public. The Palace’s indoor spaces are occasionally used for exhibitions and events organized by external institutions, and in those cases, admission may have a cost depending on the organizer.
Schedule:
- Outdoor area access available daily from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Location: 3301 Lyon Street, San Francisco.
San Francisco Church Museum (Mission Dolores Basilica)
Known as Mission Dolores and located in the heart of the Financial District, this historic church is also a small museum documenting the Franciscan presence in California. It features exhibits of sacred art, liturgical objects, and ancient documents that tell the story of the city’s founding. While entry can be free, it operates on a suggested (but not mandatory) donation system that helps maintain the site. If you’re interested in colonial or religious history, it’s a short but meaningful visit.
Location: 3321 16th St, San Francisco.
| Day | Visiting hours | Suggested donation (not required) |
| Tuesday to Sunday | 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. | Adults from $10 Seniors/Students from $5 |
| Monday | Mass only (museum visit not available) |
Randall Museum
Perfect for those traveling with children, this free museum combines science, art, and nature. Located in Corona Heights Park, it offers interactive exhibits, workshops, and even a small zoo with rescued animals. What makes it truly special is that it not only entertains but also educates about California’s natural environment. Plus, its terrace offers beautiful views of the city.
Hours of operation:
- Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Sundays and Mondays: closed, except for special programs such as workshops, events, or presentations.
Location: 199 Museum Way, San Francisco.
Other quirky and unique stops
San Francisco also surprises with museums that are out of the ordinary. Here, it’s not all about large galleries or famous collections. You’ll find spots that stand out for their originality, for what they represent, or for their connection to local history. If you enjoy exploring the unusual, this section is for you.
Windmill Museum: Golden Gate Park Windmills & Tulips
Yes, there’s a museum inside a windmill. It’s the Dutch Windmill, located in Golden Gate Park, where, in addition to seeing the structure and its original mechanism, you can learn about the history of windmills in California. Although it’s not always open to the public, if you happen to find it operating, you’ll have the chance to see one of the few examples of its kind on the West Coast.
Location: 1691 John F Kennedy, San Francisco.
De Young Museum
Located in the heart of Golden Gate Park, the De Young Museum is one of San Francisco’s finest museums. Its collection ranges from 17th-century American art to textiles, African creations, works from Oceania, and more. Beyond its artistic content, its modern architecture and free observation tower with panoramic city views are two extra reasons to visit. This museum is as impressive on the outside as it is on the inside, perfect if you’re looking for a complete visual experience.
Location: 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr Golden Gate Park, San Francisco.
| Category | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adults (18 – 64 years) | From $20 | General admission (permanent collection) |
| Seniors (65+ years) | From $17 | ID required |
| Students (with valid ID) | Starting from $11 | University students with valid ID |
| Youth (17 and under) | Free | Always free, regardless of place of residence |
| Bay Area residents | Free on Saturdays | Permanent collection only. Local address ID required |
| General public (1st Tuesday of the month) | Free | Permanent collection only. Special exhibitions not included |
| Public transportation discount | Up to $2 off | Present proof (Muni, BART, Caltrain, etc.) |
Location of the best museums in San Francisco, CA
Easily find the best museums across San Francisco. Check the map, plan your route, and start your adventure.
Take note of the following tips for visiting museums in San Francisco
San Francisco has museums for all tastes, but if you want to make the most of each visit, it’s worth going with a bit of planning. It’s not just about walking in and looking at artworks or exhibitions. It’s about connecting with the spaces, discovering details, and enjoying the full experience.
Here are some practical tips that can make a difference:
- Book in advance: Popular museums like SFMOMA or the Exploratorium can get very crowded, especially on weekends. Buying your ticket online helps you skip the lines and guarantees your entry.
- Check for free days or special discounts: Many museums offer free admission on certain days of the month or have benefits for residents, students, and seniors. It’s a great way to enjoy yourself while staying within budget.
- Plan your route by area: Several museums are relatively close to one another. For example, the Asian Art Museum and the Civic Center share the same neighborhood, as do other spots along the pier. This saves you time and lets you explore at a more relaxed pace.
- Bring water and a light snack: While many museums have cafés, having a reusable bottle and a small snack can be a lifesaver between visits, especially if your day runs long.
- Choose interactive museums if you’re traveling with children: The Exploratorium is a perfect destination for families, but there are other options with educational spaces and play areas. It’s ideal for keeping the little ones engaged while they learn.
- Leave room for the unexpected: Some smaller or lesser-known museums hold surprises worth discovering. It’s not all classical or modern art, but there’s also science, nostalgia, local history, and quirky treasures that will make you smile.
What’s the best way to get around San Francisco?
San Francisco is a fascinating city to explore, but it can also become chaotic if you rely on public transportation or taxis. If you want to see it in depth and without setbacks, renting a car with Viajemos is one of the best decisions you can make.
Having a car gives you the freedom to create your own itinerary, stop at unexpected viewpoints, or detour to a hidden museum without relying on schedules. It’s also essential if you plan to visit areas like Sausalito, Napa, or Golden Gate Park, where transportation connections aren’t always efficient.
Renting a vehicle in San Francisco means autonomy, comfort, and more time spent enjoying instead of waiting. And if you’re up for it, you can even take a road trip through California.
🎨 Museums, history, and now the open road. Who says culture and adventure can’t go hand in hand?
Frequently asked questions about the best museums in San Francisco
Do you have questions about the museums in San Francisco? Stay with us, read the information we’ve prepared, and get ready for a journey full of art, culture, and fun.
What is the best museum to visit with family in San Francisco?
The Exploratorium is one of the best museums to visit as a family. Its tours and interactive exhibits are perfect for learning while having fun. Check their website for hours of operation, ticket prices, and available activities.
What types of museums can I find in San Francisco?
You’ll find all kinds of museums in San Francisco, ranging from places dedicated to classical art, modern art, and fine art photography, to antique mechanical toys, science, local and Asian history, and many more. Choose the option that interests you most, or, if you have enough time, visit them all.
What famous works or artists can I see in San Francisco?
Enjoy renowned works by artists such as Picasso, Frida Kahlo, Andy Warhol, Ai Weiwei, Claude Monet, John Singer Sargent, and many more.
Your journey through the best museums in San Francisco has come to an end. We hope you have an amazing tour of one of the most famous cities in the USA. If you want to keep traveling and discovering, we recommend checking out our other posts about this and other cities in the country.
See you next time! May art always be a part of your travels and your life.
