San Francisco Museum of Modern Art Tours and Activities

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art


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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Top San Francisco Museum of Modern Art Hotel & Accommodation Deals

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
Hyatt Regency San Francisco

Hyatt Regency San Francisco

4 out of 5
5 Embarcadero Center, San Francisco, CA
Hyatt Regency San Francisco
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
InterContinental Mark Hopkins by IHG

InterContinental Mark Hopkins by IHG

4 out of 5
999 California Street, San Francisco, CA
InterContinental Mark Hopkins by IHG
Hotel Nikko San Francisco

Hotel Nikko San Francisco

4.5 out of 5
222 Mason St, San Francisco, CA
Hotel Nikko San Francisco
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
San Francisco Marriott Marquis

San Francisco Marriott Marquis

4 out of 5
780 Mission Street, San Francisco, CA
San Francisco Marriott Marquis
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
InterContinental San Francisco by IHG

InterContinental San Francisco by IHG

4 out of 5
888 Howard Street, San Francisco, CA
InterContinental San Francisco by IHG
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

A trip to the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art offers a delightful array of activities, including engaging theatre performances, unique shopping experiences, and captivating art exhibitions. Be sure to explore the entertainment options available, and consider joining a guided tour to enrich your visit and gain deeper insights into the impressive collection of modern art on display.

Shopping

The nearest shopping experience is Westfield San Francisco Centre, located 483m away, offering a mix of business and entertainment. Ghirardelli Square and Union Street are both 3.2km away, featuring vibrant shopping and family-friendly vibes. If you're up for a drive, explore further options in the city.

Recreation

At Oracle Park, catch an exhilarating baseball game while enjoying the lively sports atmosphere. Bill Graham Civic Auditorium hosts thrilling concerts, perfect for music lovers seeking entertainment vibes. For a more tranquil experience, the Presidio Golf Course offers stunning outdoor views and a relaxing round of golf.

Adventure

At Union Square Ice Rink, glide across the ice only 644m from the museum for a thrilling skate. For a scenic hike, explore the Coastal Trail, 8.0km away, where stunning views await. Alternatively, enjoy the outdoor vibes along Perimeter Road, also 8.0km distant.

Nightlife

After exploring the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, head to the nearby War Memorial Opera House, Marines Memorial Theater, or Golden Gate Theatre for an enchanting night of performances. Each venue is steeped in culture, offering a perfect blend of entertainment and romance just a short stroll away.

*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

While visiting the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, you'll find a vibrant mix of street art, urban parks, and galleries that cater to culture enthusiasts, families, and city explorers alike. Engage with contemporary art and immerse yourself in the rich artistic scene of San Francisco, discovering the myriad of experiences that the museum and its surroundings have to offer.

  • Pier 39: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Pier 39, a bustling jetty featuring shops, restaurants, and stunning views of the bay. Don’t miss the playful sea lions lounging on the docks and the lively street performers that add to the charm.
  • Moscone Convention Center: Located conveniently close to the museum, Moscone Convention Center is a hub for conferences and events. While primarily a business venue, its modern architecture and dynamic energy make it an interesting place to explore during your visit.
  • Lombard Street: Known as the crookedest street in the world, Lombard Street offers a unique city experience with its steep, winding pathways. The beautiful flowerbeds and stunning views of the city make it a must-see spot for any tourist.

Best time to go to San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

The best time to visit San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is dependant 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 (dry). 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 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 HighAverage
August64.2°F (17.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
September64.9°F (18.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
October62.6°F (17.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowSlightly High
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 San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

When planning your visit to the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, consider travelling in February or November to December for lower accommodation prices. Fridays are cheaper for stays compared to Tuesdays. Use Expedia to compare and sort hotel deals based on your budget and preferences, and consider bundling your flights and activities with hotel bookings for added savings. To explore the city affordably, utilise public transport and look for free local events, ensuring you make the most of your trip without breaking the bank.

  • 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to tailor your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your hotel booking for the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.