San Francisco Other Cities

Welcome to Citysearch!

Find what you were looking for? (Hint: You can use the search box in the upper left-hand corner to track down anything you want. We're here to help, so click around.)
 | close

Best of Citysearch

San Francisco Nightlife 2008

More

Vote Sponsored By

My Summary

Recently viewed

Palace of Fine Arts

3301 Lyon St
San Francisco, CA 94123
Phone: (415) 567-6642
Palace of Fine Arts
Cross Street:
Bay Street
Hours:
Daily 6am-9pm

Editorial Review for Palace of Fine Arts – by Citysearch Editors

In Short
Designed by architect Bernard Maybeck, this marvel was constructed in 1915 for the Panama-Pacific Exposition, which celebrated the completion of the Panama Canal and the rebirth of San Francisco following the 1906 earthquake. Today, it's home to the Exploratorium, an interactive science museum, as well as a 1,000-seat theater that's ideal for events, including the stunning Ethnic Dance Festival. At other times, it's used for film festivals, lectures and concerts.

Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.

Insider Tips

Parking

There's a free lot at Bay and Lyon streets.

Look Good

Beautiful grounds, Corinthian columns, a central pond--the Palace is ideal for weddings. To plan yours, contact the Recreation and Parks Department at (415) 831-5500.

User Reviews for Palace of Fine Arts

4 Star Rating: Recommended

10/17/2006 Posted by olphart

The palace and surrounding grounds are absolutely a must to see. Unfortunately it's currently (10/06) being renovated and both the grounds and structures are closed to the public.

5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended

11/16/2005 Posted by cortlimi

My husband and I love it so much we held our wedding there. It is a magical setting for a wedding. Our wedding was a Renaissance Theme, several dozen people in period clothing. It was a sight to behold. We had a woman come up to us and tell us that she sees weddings there almost every week (she lives across the street) and ours was the most beautiful and original she has seen in all the years she lived there. The acoustics are very interesting. If you stand in the exact center of the rotunda, and clap your hands one time (loud) the sound echoes several times quite distinctly. There are lovely swans, too. Swimming elegantly along. Creating a dreamlike atmosophere. Esp on foggy days (not many of those in SF, right?) The only show I have seen there was my wedding, but it was a great one.

Schedule

02/21/2009 Duncan Sheik Find Tickets
  8:00 pm    
03/05/2009 M. Ward Find Tickets
  8:00 pm    

Editor's Review

A remnant of San Francisco's glorious past, this exquisite arts-and-science complex thrives in the Marina District.  See the full editorial review.

Insider Tips

Parking

There's a free lot at Bay and Lyon streets.

More Insider Tips

Performing Arts Location Information for Palace of Fine Arts

Admission

  • Varies

Parking

  • Lot

Hours

  • Daily 6am-9pm

Payment Types

  • Visa
  • MasterCard

Site Links:

Citysearch is a registered trademark of Bluefoot Ventures Inc., and is used under license.
© 2009 Citysearch.com All rights reserved.

Partner Sites: