de Young Museum

🎯 Museum

The Verdict

"The observation tower is free and you don't need a museum ticket. Take the elevator up for 360-degree views of Golden Gate Park and the city. Best on clear afternoons."

What you need to know

The de Young Museum sits in Golden Gate Park and has been a San Francisco institution since 1895. The copper-clad building was redesigned by Herzog & de Meuron after earthquake damage. The Hamon Observation Tower gives 360-degree views of the park, the ocean, and downtown. Free admission on the first Tuesday of every month.

More Things to Do Nearby

Museum

California Academy of Sciences

Thursday NightLife events (21+) are the best way to see it without kids. The living roof and rainforest dome are the highlights. Skip the aquarium if you're short on time.

Museum

Asian Art Museum

Free first Sundays fill up fast but Thursday evenings are quieter. The permanent collection is stronger than most visitors expect. Start on the third floor and work down.

Museum

SFMOMA

SoMa

Start on the top floor and work down. The free first-floor gallery is good but the real collection is upstairs. Thursday evenings are less crowded.

Museum

Exploratorium

Thursday After Dark evenings (18+) are the adult version and worth planning around. The Tactile Dome requires a separate reservation. Allow at least 3 hours.