Palace of Fine Arts
(415) 563-6504
3301 Lyon St
San Francisco,
CA
94123
37.8013
-122.4479
Neighborhoods: North, Presidio
What People Are Saying About Palace of Fine Arts
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
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.
User Reviews
olphart
October 17, 2006
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.
read full review
cortlimi
November 16, 2005
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.
read full review
vanessa21179
August 22, 2004
This structure is one of the most beautiful sights that San Francisco has to offer! Although it is not as well known as the Golden Gate Bridge you have the same sense of awe standing in the center of the Rotunda looking up as you do walking across the Golden Gate. The beautiful landscape includes a small lake, plenty of trees, a plush lawn and many animals from birds to squirrels to make it complete. If you are ever in San Francisco and have a free afternoon, I highly recommend stopping by!
read full reviewThe Details on Palace of Fine Arts
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.
