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.
