Best art museums in San Francisco: discovering the city's artistic wonders

You don't have to travel far for the best art museums in San Francisco. This city is renowned for its rich culture and history; tucked away between the many landmarks and monuments, you'll find many art galleries in San Francisco boasting collections from centuries-old favorites from the masters to contemporary classics. Admire one of the largest collections of Asian art in the United States at Asian Art Museum of San Francisco, discover the works of emerging artists at SoEx, and let your imagination run wild at the Randall Museum.

Not keen on crowds? Not to worry. You'll find plenty of hidden gems in San Francisco worth seeking out. From the Mission to Union Square and beyond, you're only ever a short stroll away from an art exhibition. Here are the 10 best art museums in San Francisco.

Best art museums in San Francisco

1. Admire one of the largest collections of Asian art in the US at the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco

Opened in 1966, the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco boasts more than 18,000 unique artifacts and artworks. The painstakingly curated collection includes pieces from Central Asia, the Himalayas, and beyond.

Highlights:

While you’re here, be sure to check out the Buddha sculpture that dates back to the 4th century.

Address and opening hours:

200 Larkin St, San Francisco, CA 94102. Thursday 1:00 PM-8:00 PM, Friday-Monday 10:00 AM-5:00 PM.

2. Explore one of the finest collections of European art at the Legion of Honor

Among the best art museums in San Francisco, The Legion of Honor has an impressive collection of European art, with many pieces dating back to ancient times. The building itself is something to behold, with various unique architectural features.

Highlights:

Check out the Hall of Antiquities. Here, you'll find pieces that date back to Ancient Egypt and the Roman Empire.

Address and opening hours:

100 34th Ave, San Francisco, CA 94121. Tuesday-Sunday 9:30 AM-5:15 PM.

3. Get acquainted with contemporary art at the San Francisco MOMA

Since opening in 1935, San Francisco MoMa has been showcasing the best contemporary art in the city. It's the only art museum of its kind on the West Coast, with a permanent collection of more than 33,000 pieces.

Highlights:

Pieces from Andy Warhol, Frida Kahlo, and Diego Rivera and other seminal 20th-century artists can all be found here.

Address and opening hours:

151 3rd St, San Francisco, CA 94103. Thursday 1:00 PM-8:00 PM, Friday-Monday 10:00 AM-5:00 PM.

4. Marvel at American art spanning centuries at the de Young Museum

Established in the late 1890s, the de Young museum houses one of the largest permanent collections of American art on the planet, with some pieces dating back as early as the 17th century. Alongside paintings, you'll find sculptures, textiles, and more.

Highlights:

Although the de Young Museum spotlights American art, you'll also find works from European painters here, with one or two classics from Salvador Dali in the permanent collection.

Address and opening hours:

50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118. Tuesday-Sunday 9:30 AM-5:15 PM.

5. Explore Mexican-American artwork at the Mexican Museum

Opened in 1975, the Mexican Museum spotlights artwork from the Mexican-American community. Over the years, the collection has grown to include works from other Latino communities. Today, the museum's permanent collection has over 16,000 pieces, making it the largest of its kind in the United States.

Highlights:

The Mexican Museum houses thousands of pieces dating back to Mesoamerican times. Some of the ceremonial tools and ornaments on display date back 2,500 years.

Address and opening hours:

649 Mission St #419, San Francisco, CA 94105. Tuesday-Sunday 10:00 AM-5:00 PM.

6. Discover the works of emerging artists at SoEx

The Bay Area has long been home to a huge creative community. Southern Exposure, or SoEx, was once a commune for up-and-coming artists. It's still a hub for alternative art and supports emerging artists.

Highlights:

Looking for an extra-special memento of your trip to San Francisco? At Southern Exposure, affordable art is within easy reach, thanks to regular auctions.

Address and opening hours:

3030 20th St, San Francisco, CA 94110. Tuesday-Saturday 12:00 PM-6:00 PM.

Best alternative museums in San Francisco

7. Interact with exhibits at the Exploratorium

This innovative museum was founded by Frank Oppenheimer, a renowned physicist. Since opening in 1969, the Exploratorium has become one of San Francisco's most popular attractions. Every year, more than a million people pass through its doors.

Highlights:

At the Exploratorium, visitors are encouraged to get involved. In the South Gallery, you'll be able to get creative with hands-on workshops and stop-motion displays.

Address and opening hours:

Pier 15 Embarcadero at, Green St, San Francisco, CA 94111. Tuesday-Sunday, opening times vary.

8. Let your imagination run wild at the Randall Museum

The Randall Museum combines nature, science, and the arts. It's a popular destination with families, with many exhibits suitable for young children. Along with interactive nature displays, visitors can get creative with interactive art installations and ceramic classes.

Highlights:

Although there are plenty of exhibits to enjoy at the Randall Museum, most come here for a hands-on experience. Along with workshops and art classes, you'll find live performance events.

Address and opening hours:

199 Museum Way, San Francisco, CA 94114. Tuesday-Saturday 10:00 AM-5:00 PM.

9. Take a tour of the Disney archives at the Walt Disney Family Museum

The Walt Disney Family Museum offers fascinating insights into the life and career of one of the most pioneering figures in the history of animation. The permanent collection includes everything from early sketches of classic characters to the impressive array of awards Disney amassed.

Highlights:

Once you've explored the main exhibition hall at The Walt Disney Family Museum, head downstairs to find a cutting-edge digital theater that screens Disney classics.

Address and opening hours:

104 Montgomery St, San Francisco, CA 94129. Thursday-Monday 10:00 AM-5:30 PM.

10. Feast your eyes on the unusual at the Gregangelo Museum

The weird and wonderful Gregangelo Museum enjoys a special place in the hearts of many locals. Opened in the 1920s, the building itself is a unique piece of installation art. Each room offers something completely different, with mosaics and artworks inspired by every era and area.

Highlights:

With 27 rooms to explore, it's easy to get lost here - but don’t miss the Vortex Room, with its secret entrance and infinity pond.

Address and opening hours:

225 San Leandro Way, San Francisco, CA 94127. Thursday-Saturday 11:00 AM-4:00 PM.

FAQs

Are there any free-entry days for art museums in San Francisco?

Many art museums in San Francisco offer free entry one day a month. Generally speaking, these free admission days fall on a Sunday, Tuesday, or Wednesday. They're usually scheduled at the start of the month.

What are some unique and lesser-known art museums worth visiting in San Francisco?

Eager to beat the crowds? The International Art Museum of America has a relatively small collection, but what it does have in its permanent archives will impress. The Museum of 3D Illusions is another good choice for anyone looking for left-field exhibitions. There's also the Tenderloin Museum, which shines a spotlight on the artists, activists, and immigrants that have called this city home.

Which art museums in San Francisco have works by famous artists?

Most of the major museums in San Francisco have works by famous artists. At the Museum of Modern Art, you'll find pieces from Rivera, Matisse, and Picasso.

Are the art museums in San Francisco wheelchair accessible?

Most museums in San Francisco are wheelchair-friendly. The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, de Young Museum, and Legion of Honor have all been certified as accessible. If you're visiting a smaller venue, check ahead to avoid disappointment.

Are there any art museums in San Francisco that are suitable for children and families?

The majority of museums in the city are suitable for family groups. The Museum of Craft and Design is generally kid-friendly, while the de Young Museum has thousands of pieces to interest children.