De Young Museum Tours

Exploring the unique architecture and scenic views at De Young Museum in San Francisco, California
Visit to De Young Museum in San Francisco showcasing modern architecture and vibrant surroundings
Exploration of art and culture at De Young Museum in San Francisco California
De Young Museum interior showcasing modern architecture and art exhibits in San Francisco, California
Stunning palm trees line the pathway in front of De Young Museum in San Francisco on a clear day


This famous fine arts museum in Golden Gate Park was founded in the 19th century and boasts a collection dating back to the 1600s.

The de Young Museum is one of the most visited art museums in North America. Opened in 1895, it showcases a vast collection of art, textiles and costumes predominantly from the Americas, the Pacific and Africa.

Major earthquakes have taken their toll on this area through the years, and the museum was renovated in 2005. Now, the more modern structure is complete with a 144-foot (44-meter) tower that’s a prominent part of the San Francisco skyline.

A stroll through the de Young is like a tour through the history of American painting. Don't miss works by iconic American artists such as John Copley, Frederick Church and Thomas Hovenden. Also look out for a famous son of the Bay Area, Japanese-American painter Chiura Obata. He’s one of many whose works celebrate great Californian art.

Take the time to view the de Young textile collection, one of the largest in the United States. Exhibits include Turkmen carpets and 12th-century Asian silks through to modern garments designed by Dior and Chanel.

De Young Museum is located in the heart of the Golden Gate Park, within easy reach of the rest of the city. There’s paid parking available nearby and limited spaces on the surrounding streets. Take the San Francisco Municipal bus (MUNI) to Golden Gate Park to receive a discount on adult entry to the museum. The Golden Gate shuttle bus stops at the museum and other attractions within the park. Another good way to get to the museum is to rent a bike, which will also make it easier to explore the rest of the park.

The de Young is open Tuesday through Sunday with doors kept open later on Friday evenings from March until November. The museum is closed on major holidays.

Plan a trip to see De Young Museum

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Bay Landing San Francisco Airport Hotel
Aqua Breeze Inn
@ Marbella Lane - 3BR Designer Near Valley Fair

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Best Lodging Options Near De Young Museum

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
Stanyan Park Hotel

Stanyan Park Hotel

3 out of 5
750 Stanyan Street, San Francisco, CA
Stanyan Park Hotel
Absolutely Private President's Suite, Computer, Wi-Fi, Laundry, Pub. Parking

Absolutely Private President's Suite, Computer, Wi-Fi, Laundry, Pub. Parking

San Francisco
Absolutely Private President's Suite, Computer, Wi-Fi, Laundry, Pub. Parking
Sunset Edwardian Bed and Breakfast at Golden Gate Park

Sunset Edwardian Bed and Breakfast at Golden Gate Park

2 out of 5
1471 18th Ave, San Francisco, CA
Sunset Edwardian Bed and Breakfast at Golden Gate Park
Quiet Garden Apt., geographic center of The City

Quiet Garden Apt., geographic center of The City

San Francisco
Quiet Garden Apt., geographic center of The City
Golden Gate Park Escape | 4BR + Garage + Metro

Golden Gate Park Escape | 4BR + Garage + Metro

San Francisco
Golden Gate Park Escape | 4BR + Garage + Metro
BRAND NEW - ENTIRE FLOOR w/ OCEAN Beach View and PARKING!

BRAND NEW - ENTIRE FLOOR w/ OCEAN Beach View and PARKING!

San Francisco
BRAND NEW - ENTIRE FLOOR w/ OCEAN Beach View and PARKING!
Cozy Sunset suite

Cozy Sunset suite

San Francisco
Cozy Sunset suite
32nd Ave Casa next to Legion of Honor Museum, park, restaurants, bus, playground

32nd Ave Casa next to Legion of Honor Museum, park, restaurants, bus, playground

San Francisco
32nd Ave Casa next to Legion of Honor Museum, park, restaurants, bus, playground
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 De Young Museum

At the De Young Museum in San Francisco, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including stunning sunsets and nearby shopping. Explore an eclectic bookstore, wander through an indoor rainforest, or take guided tours to enhance your experience. The vibrant arts scene and theater options nearby add to the excitement, making it a perfect destination for culture enthusiasts.

Food and drinks

Explore the Cliff House for stunning views and local flavors, just 3 miles from the De Young Museum. For a unique experience, visit Anchor Brewing Company, 4 miles away, where you can enjoy craft beers in a romantic setting. Don't miss See's Candies, a sweet treat paradise 9 miles out.

Shopping

Enjoy shopping at Ghirardelli Square, a vibrant shopping center located 3 miles from the De Young Museum, perfect for family and entertainment vibes. Also nearby, Winery Collective and Boudin Bakery, both 4 miles away, offer unique gifts and souvenirs in a charming setting.

Recreation

Chase Center offers an energetic atmosphere, perfect for sports enthusiasts, just 4 miles from the De Young Museum. Nearby, Harding Park Golf Course invites you to enjoy the outdoors with its well-maintained greens, also 4 miles away. The Olympic Club, located 5 miles from the museum, provides a stunning golfing experience amidst nature.

Adventure

Embark on an invigorating hike along the Coastal Trail, located 2 miles from the De Young Museum, where breathtaking scenery awaits. Experience the thrill of gliding on ice at Union Square Ice Rink, 4 miles away, or enjoy a charming cable car ride from Powell & Market, 3 miles distant.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near the De Young Museum with a show at the Orpheum Theatre, just 3 miles away, or catch a film at the Castro Theatre, 2 miles away. For a unique family outing, visit the Morrison Planetarium, only 0.2 miles from the museum.

Find the best attractions near De Young Museum

If you're visiting the De Young Museum in San Francisco, you're in for a treat with a variety of attractions nearby. Explore beautiful urban parks, relax at nearby beaches, and discover the historic charm of local colleges and universities. This vibrant area caters to culture enthusiasts and families alike, offering a perfect blend of art, outdoor experiences, and family-friendly activities. Don't miss the De Young Museum and nearby sites like Union Square for a complete San Francisco experience.

  • Golden Gate Park: Just 0.6 miles from the De Young Museum, this expansive urban park offers lush gardens, serene lakes, and recreational opportunities. It's perfect for family outings or leisurely strolls, immersing you in nature right in the city.
  • Pier 39: Located 4 miles away, Pier 39 is a vibrant destination filled with shops, restaurants, and stunning waterfront views. Enjoy street performances, watch sea lions basking in the sun, and soak up the friendly atmosphere while taking in the scenic beauty.
  • Golden Gate Bridge: A mere 3 miles from the museum, this iconic landmark is a must-see. With its stunning architecture and rich history, walking or biking across the bridge offers breathtaking views and a deep cultural experience.

Best time to go to De Young Museum

Visitor numbers around De Young Museum is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit De Young Museum can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around De Young Museum falls in September, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around De Young Museum falls in December, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January51.4°F (10.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
February52.2°F (11.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March53.4°F (11.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
April55.8°F (13.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May58.1°F (14.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
June62.1°F (16.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
July63.1°F (17.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August64.2°F (17.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowSlightly High
September64.9°F (18.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
October62.6°F (17.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowAverage
November56.1°F (13.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December51.3°F (10.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for De Young Museum

To save money during your visit to the De Young Museum in San Francisco, explore nearby free attractions such as Golden Gate Park, Pier 39, and the Presidio. Consider visiting during off-peak months like February or November to December for lower hotel rates. Book your accommodation about a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Use their search tools to find budget-friendly options and consider joining the One Key membership for exclusive discounts. Finally, bundle your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around De Young Museum are February and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around De Young Museum about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking an Expedia package that combines your hotel stay at the De Young Museum with your flights and activities.
  • 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.