Best of SF Museums

There’s no shortage of museums in SF, which boasts innovative exhibitions that are world-renowned. Don’t know where to start? Here’s a guide of the best art, family and miscellaneous museums in SF you don’t want to miss.

Art

SF Museum of Modern Art - The SFMOMA is housed in a stunning building with a world-recognized collection of modern and contemporary art. This is the museum that keeps on giving. Over 33,000 pieces of art, from painting, photography, architecture, design and more. Expect to spend a few hours here. 151 3rd Street

de Young Museum - Fine arts museum located in Golden Gate Park that opened in 1895. Large collection of American art from the 17th to 20th century. Spectacular panoramic observation tower with views of downtown SF, Marin headlands and more. Amazing rotating exhibitions. Golden Gate Park, 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive

Yerba Buena Center for the Arts - Ever-changing exhibits and displays that never disappoint. This one-of-a-kind multidisciplinary arts center is all-inclusive and celebrates local and innovative art, with performances in film, visual and performing arts. Check out the calendar to see what’s on display. 701 Mission Street

Asian Art Museum - One of the most comprehensive collections of Eastern art and culture. The dynamic display has Korean couture to ancient bronze statues of the buddha. 200 Larkin Street 

Unique to SF

Cable Car Museum - The Cable Car Museum is located right in SCH’s backyard in the Washington-Mason powerhouse and carbarn on Nob Hill. Houses a collection of cable cars, mechanical displays and more. 1201 Mason Street

Musee Mecanique - Bring some change! This museum houses coin-operated musical instruments and antique arcade games. Located right near Fisherman’s Wharf, stop in and take a look at some of the bizarre games of olden days. San Francisco Pier 41

Kid-Friendly

Exploratorium - This museum isn’t just for kids! The Exploratorium is a museum for the curious, with interactive displays that allow visitors to experience the world through science, art and human perception. Pier 15, The Embarcadero

Children’s Creativity Museum - Hands-on museum for kids to explore the arts and technology. Family-oriented with activities for toddlers and the big kids. Destined to tire the little ones out... 221 4th Street 

Walt Disney Family Museum - Disneyland is a bit further south, but here in SF we have the Walt Disney Family Museum. Discover sketches, ideas and documents of the famous cartoonist from his early days. Interactive exhibits enjoyable for the whole family. 104 Montgomery Street