Palace of Fine Arts

The Basics

Located in close proximity to the Golden Gate Bridge, the Palace of Fine Arts is included in many city sightseeing tours. In addition to traditional walking or minivan group tours, try a self-guided bike excursion or a group cycling tour that visits the grounds. If visiting independently, stop briefly for pictures, or plan ahead and pack a picnic to enjoy on the grounds. The nearby Presidio, Marina District, and Crissy Field waterfront are popular, walkable destinations to check out as well.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Palace of Fine Arts is a must-visit for history buffs and photographers.

• There is no fee to visit the landmark.

• Bring layers, as its close proximity to the water can make for cooler weather.

• The flat paths are easily walkable, and accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.

How to Get There

The best way to get to the Palace of Fine Arts is by car or public transportation. There’s a small on-site parking lot and free street parking in the neighborhood, and Muni buses 30, 43, 28, and 29 stop nearby. It’s also a quick walk from the Presidio or Golden Gate Bridge.

When to Get There

The Palace of Fine Arts is open all day all year, but is best enjoyed during daylight hours. The rotunda is lit at night, but it’s difficult to see and explore the surrounding lagoon area. If visiting on a rainy day, bring an umbrella, as the rotunda is the only covered area.

Pack a Picnic

On a nice day, the Palace of Fine Arts is the perfect backdrop for a picnic. Pick up food at one of the many restaurants on nearby Chestnut or Union streets in the Marina district. Enjoy a walk through the quaint neighborhood to the palace and pick a lovely spot near the lagoon or rotunda.

Can you visit the Palace of Fine Arts anytime?

Just about. The Palace of Fine Arts grounds, where the palace and rotunda lie next to a small lagoon in a Marina District neighborhood park, are open daily from 5am to 12am. The exhibition space and events hall behind the palace typically require admission tickets to visit.

How much is parking at the Palace of Fine Arts?

Parking in the lot behind the Palace of Fine Arts is $1.90 per hour and $9.50 per day—a good deal in San Francisco. There's limited free parking along Palace Drive and a smaller lot near the entrance. More free parking is available across Marina Boulevard in the Little Marina Green Picnic Area.

How long do you spend at the Palace of Fine Arts?

You only need a little time at the Palace of Fine Arts. It sits on a cozy public park with a small lagoon and requires no more than 30 minutes to an hour to explore. Catching a performance in the Palace of Fine Arts Theater adds several hours to your visit.

Can you have a picnic at the Palace of Fine Arts?

Yes, you can have a picnic at the Palace of Fine Arts. The palace is in a cozy public park with a small lagoon, a romantic setting for a picnic. While there aren't picnic tables, you can lay on the grass or sit on a bench and watch swans in the lagoon.

Can you take pictures at the Palace of Fine Arts?

Yes, you can take photos at the Palace of Fine Arts. With Greco-Roman-style columns and a dome facing a small lagoon with swans, the palace is one of the most photographed attractions in San Francisco. It's so photogenic that it has also been featured in many films and TV shows.

Are there bathrooms at the Palace of Fine Arts?

Yes, the Palace of Fine Arts has accessible public restrooms towards the back of the building. There are also additional public restrooms across Marina Boulevard in the Little Marina Green, near the Crissy Field Parking Lot, and next to the Outpost Playground on Mason Street.

Ways to explore

Located in close proximity to the Golden Gate Bridge, the Palace of Fine Arts is included in many city sightseeing tours. In addition to traditional walking or minivan group tours, try a self-guided bike excursion or a group cycling tour that visits the grounds. If visiting independently, stop briefly for pictures, or plan ahead and pack a picnic to enjoy on the grounds. The nearby Presidio, Marina District, and Crissy Field waterfront are popular, walkable destinations that are worth checking out during your area explorations.

Accessibility

The Palace of Fine Arts is broadly wheelchair accessible, with flat and level paving throughout.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Sun or rain protection, camera, picnic supplies

What to wear

Wear weather-appropriate layers and good walking shoes; remember that San Francisco can be cool and foggy year-round.

Not allowed

While the rules vary by tour, most don’t allow smoking, pets, or alcohol.

Amenities

Walking trails, parking, proximity to shops and restaurants

Address 

The Palace of Fine Arts is located in northern San Francisco’s Marina District, adjacent to the Presidio and close to the waterfront. To get there, you can drive, take taxis or rideshare services, use local buses, or opt for a tour with included transportation.

Driving

The Palace of Fine Arts is accessible via major routes including Lombard Street from the south and Girard Road from the north. Parking is available along Palace Drive or other nearby streets, or in paid garages in the area.

Public transportation

The Palace of Fine Arts can be reached via several city bus routes, including the 91, 101, 130, and 150.

Best times to visit

The Palace of Fine Arts is open from midmorning to early evening each day. Visit early in the morning for scenic views and fewer crowds.

Best days to visit

There’s rarely a bad time to visit the Palace of Fine Arts; however, expect more crowds on weekends.

Best months to visit

Avoid the summer—which is often a cool, foggy time in San Francisco—if you can, and aim for spring or early autumn instead.

Special events

The on-site Palace of Fine Arts Theatre hosts a range of events and performances throughout the year.