De Young Museum: Tickets and Tours

Dive into the heart of San Francisco's art scene with a visit to the de Young Museum. Located in the scenic Golden Gate Park, this museum offers a unique experience, blending iconic works and innovative exhibitions.

Securing your de Young Museum tickets will unlock a realm of creativity from around the globe. From the intricate patterns of ancient indigenous textiles to the bold strokes of modern art, a visit to the de Young is an inspiring journey for art aficionados and casual visitors alike.

Here's all you need to know about the de Young Museum, one of the most exciting museums in San Francisco.

How much do de Young Museum tickets cost?

General admission de Young Museum tickets cost US$20 for adults aged 18 to 64.

Are there any discounted tickets?

The de Young Museum offers discounted tickets to seniors (65+) and students, while visitors with disabilities plus one guest and children (17 and under) can visit for free.

• Seniors: US$17
• Students:  US$

Visitors can get a US$2 discount on tickets by using the Bay Area public transportation system.

When can I visit for free?

Ggeneral admission is free at the de Young Museum every first Tuesday of the month. Additionally, all residents of the Bay Area counties can visit for free on Saturday.

Should I book in advance?

Yes, it is strongly advised to book de Young Museum tickets in advance, to ensure a seamless and enriched experience. Advance tickets allow you to secure entry for popular special exhibitions, avoid long waiting lines, and plan your visit efficiently.

Are there any combined tickets or tours including the de Young Museum and other museums?

●       De Young Museum and Legion of Honor: Explore two of San Francisco's premier fine arts museums and enjoy discounted admission. Bundle tickets for the Legion of Honor and the De Young Museum offer a unique opportunity to discover art spanning the Americas, Africa, Oceania, and over four thousand years of history.

What will I see at the de Young Museum?

Nestled in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park, the de Young Museum hosts an exquisite array of permanent collections spread across three levels. Visitors can marvel at a wide range of American art from the 17th through the 21st centuries, including diverse artifacts and textile arts from the native peoples of the Americas, Africa, and the Pacific.

Amongst the works of de Young Museum's collection are Grant Wood's “Daughters of Revolution” and Frederic Edwin Church's “Rainy Season in the Tropics”, as well as well-known pieces by Mary Cassatt, John Singleton Copley, Diego Rivera and Georgia O’Keeffe, amongst many more.

The museum also features numerous special exhibitions and events throughout the year, providing a dynamic and eclectic experience to art enthusiasts. These exhibitions may spotlight thematic artwork, renowned artists, or collections from around the world, offering a more multifaceted experience and visit.

Where is it located and how do I get there?

Located in the Golden Gate Park, the de Young Museum is easily accessible by car and public transportation. There are multiple Muni services that will leave you within walking distance of the museum, such as the 44 O’Shaughnessy bus, the 7 Haight/Noriega bus, the 28 bus and the N Judah Muni metro. Golden Gate Park visitors can also take a free shuttle to the museum.

If traveling by car, keep in mind that you cannot access the museum from the north part of the park. While there is free parking in the surrounding streets, space is limited and spots fill up by midday.

What are the opening times?

The de Young Museum is open between 9:30 AM and 5:15 PM, from Tuesday to Sunday. Last entries are one hour before closing. The museum is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

Yes, the de Young Museum is wheelchair-friendly, featuring ramps, accessible bathrooms and easy access to all exhibition areas. Wheelchairs are also available from the museum reception, on a first-come, first-serve basis.

As an ADA-compliant museum, the de Young Museum is also designed to accommodate the needs of visitors who are deaf, hard of hearing, have low vision or are blind, or are deaf.

When is the best time to visit the de Young Museum?

The best time to visit the de Young Museum is during weekday mornings, right after opening, when it's less crowded. However, if you want to catch any special exhibitions, events, or lectures, check the museum's calendar beforehand. The museum is busiest on weekends, especially in the afternoon, and when admission is free.

Which other museums can be visited in San Francisco?

• California Academy of Sciences
• Madame Tussauds
• Museum of Modern Art
• Exploratorium
• Walt Disney Family Museum
• Museum of 3D Illusions

Travel tips

• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing as you will be walking and standing for extended periods.
• Don't forget to visit the Hamon Observation Tower, for a 360-degree view of San Francisco. Access to the tower is free.
• If you travel to the museum using the Bay Area transit system, you can show your ticket for an additional discount on entry.
• After your visit there you can explore the Golden Gate Park's other attractions, like the California Academy of Sciences, the Japanese Tea Garden, or simply take a leisurely stroll.