San Francisco Museum of Modern Art Tours

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art featuring a city
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art showing signage
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art showing interior views and art
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art featuring outdoor art
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art featuring a city


Displaying artworks from Frida Kahlo to Andy Warhol, this museum of modern and contemporary art is one of the largest of its kind in the United States.

If you’re a fledgling art enthusiast, a prominent collector or something in between, take time to visit the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. World-renowned SFMOMA features artists from around the world, an outdoor sculpture garden, a 30-foot-high (9-meter) living wall, restaurants and more.

SFMOMA was founded in 1935 as the West Coast’s first museum dedicated solely to 20th-century artwork. After a recent expansion, the museum houses paintings, photography, sculpture, architecture, design and media arts. Buy an admission ticket to explore all seven gallery floors.

Rotating exhibits have included panels by Julie Mehretu, art by Sol LeWitt and JR’s digital mural celebrating the people of San Francisco. Outside, don’t miss the Living Wall, a huge oasis of greenery.

For an in-depth look at the museum and its collection of more than 33,000 works, consider an interactive tour led by a museum guide. Exhibition Tours are 45 minutes long and focus on a single exhibition. Spotlight Tours are 20 minutes long, focusing on a single artist or piece of art.

Check out the Doris and Donald Fisher Collection, an impressive, private collection of contemporary art. The Fishers are the founders of the well-known Gap brand. They share their extensive artwork with the museum, including American pop, minimalist art, German art and figurative art.

Stop into family-friendly Cafe 5 for California fusion cuisine or Michelin-starred In Situ for entrees from more than 90 chefs from all over the world. On the second floor in the museum’s free public area, Sightglass serves lighter fare, handcrafted coffee beverages and pastries.

Don’t miss the museum store, the perfect place to pick up a souvenir or gift. Select something for everyone on your list from cut-glass bud vases, creative book lamps, art books, toys, jewelry and more.

Visit the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art in San Francisco’s SoMa district any day but Wednesday. SFMOMA is close to the Yerba Buena Gardens and the Moscone Center. Travel here by public transportation stops near the museum include BART and Muni. There is also a parking garage near the main entrance. Use the SFMOMA website to book admission tickets in advance.

Plan a trip to see San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

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The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square
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Best Lodging Options Near San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

3.5 out of 5
1500 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Handlery Union Square Hotel

Handlery Union Square Hotel

3.5 out of 5
351 Geary St, San Francisco, CA
Handlery Union Square Hotel
Parc 55 San Francisco - A Hilton Hotel

Parc 55 San Francisco - A Hilton Hotel

4 out of 5
55 Cyril Magnin St, San Francisco, CA
Parc 55 San Francisco - A Hilton Hotel
Hyatt Regency San Francisco Downtown SOMA

Hyatt Regency San Francisco Downtown SOMA

4 out of 5
50 3rd St, San Francisco, CA
Hyatt Regency San Francisco Downtown SOMA
Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco

Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco

4 out of 5
424 Clay St, San Francisco, CA
Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco
Hyatt Regency San Francisco

Hyatt Regency San Francisco

4 out of 5
5 Embarcadero Center, San Francisco, CA
Hyatt Regency San Francisco
San Francisco Marriott Marquis

San Francisco Marriott Marquis

4 out of 5
780 Mission Street, San Francisco, CA
San Francisco Marriott Marquis
Hilton San Francisco Financial District

Hilton San Francisco Financial District

4 out of 5
750 Kearny St, San Francisco, CA
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
Chancellor Hotel on Union Square

Chancellor Hotel on Union Square

3.5 out of 5
433 Powell St, San Francisco, CA
Chancellor Hotel on Union Square
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

At the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, visitors can immerse themselves in contemporary art while enjoying nearby attractions like vibrant theaters, diverse shopping opportunities, and engaging art installations. This iconic museum not only showcases outstanding modern works but also serves as a cultural hub, making it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and tourists alike.

Shopping

Experience shopping at Ghirardelli Square, just 2 miles from the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, offering a vibrant atmosphere with various shops and entertainment. Nearby, visit Winery Collective and Boudin Bakery, both 2 miles away, for unique gifts and delicious treats.

Recreation

At Oracle Park, enjoy a lively atmosphere while catching a game or a concert, just 0.8 miles from the museum. The Bill Graham Civic Auditorium, located 1 mile away, offers a vibrant music scene. For outdoor relaxation, visit the Presidio Golf Course, 3 miles from the museum, surrounded by nature.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of skating at the Union Square Ice Rink, located 0.4 mile from the museum. For a scenic adventure, hike the Ecology Trail, 1 mile away, offering breathtaking views. Alternatively, explore the outdoor vibes along Perimeter Road, situated 5 miles from the museum.

Nightlife

In San Francisco, the Orpheum Theatre offers a blend of culture and romance just 0.9 miles away, while the Louise Davies Symphony Hall, 1 mile away, provides family-friendly entertainment. For movie lovers, the Sundance Kabuki Cinemas, 2 miles away, sets the perfect romantic backdrop for a night out.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

Whether you're a culture enthusiast, a family traveler, or simply exploring the city, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art offers an array of attractions. Nearby urban parks and galleries enhance your experience, while additional points of interest include other art museums and local attractions. Discover the vibrant street life and artistic offerings in and around the museum to make your visit unforgettable.

  • Pier 39: This lively waterfront destination offers a unique blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment. With stunning views of the bay and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, you can enjoy fresh seafood, watch sea lions bask in the sun, and explore various attractions, all while soaking in the friendly atmosphere.
  • Moscone Convention Center: Known as a premier event venue, Moscone Convention Center hosts a variety of conferences and exhibitions. Its modern architecture and convenient location make it a bustling hub for business professionals, offering an insight into the innovative spirit of San Francisco.
  • Lombard Street: Famous for its steep, winding turns, Lombard Street is a must-see for its picturesque views and vibrant flowerbeds. As you stroll down this iconic street, you'll experience the charm of San Francisco's hilly landscape and unique residential architecture.

Best time to go to San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

The best time to visit San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. September is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January51.4°F (10.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
February52.2°F (11.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March53.4°F (11.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
April55.8°F (13.2°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May58.1°F (14.5°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June62.1°F (16.7°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
July63.1°F (17.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
August64.2°F (17.9°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
September64.9°F (18.3°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
October62.6°F (17.0°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly High
November56.1°F (13.4°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December51.3°F (10.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

To save money on your trip to the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, consider visiting during the cheaper months of February or November to December, with Fridays being the least expensive days to stay. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly hotel options, and take advantage of package deals that combine flights and activities for additional savings. Joining the One Key membership program can also provide exclusive discounts and OneKeyCash for future bookings. Look for eco-certified hotels and check for any modern art hotel deals to maximize your savings while enjoying your visit.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around San Francisco Museum of Modern Art are February and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August to October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is Friday. The most expensive day to stay around San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is Tuesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and more. You can arrange your results by price, displaying the most affordable hotels at the top. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will highlight sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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