Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco
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Palace of Fine Arts - by Rhododendrites (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Description
The Palace of Fine Arts was constructed for the 1915 Panama–Pacific International Exposition to exhibit works of art and consists of a 49m high open rotunda flanked by colonnades, a pergola and a lagoon; the other 10 temporary palaces having been destroyed/removed after the exhibition. The structure has been upgraded (most notably into concrete in 1964) and renovated several times since then. A 1,000-seat theatre was added to the complex in 1970 to host cultural events and live performances.
Access & Transport
The monument is located at the junction of the northeast corner of Presidio and the Marina district. There is parking onsite and bus stops along Mason St (30), Broderick St (30) and Richardson Av. (28, 91, 101, 114, 130, 132, 150, 154, 172).
Instructions & Recommendations
Evening is a good time to go as the rotunda and colonnades get lit up. It is possible to walk from/to there from Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman's Wharf (but opposite directions)
Environmental & Social
Repurposing of an existing structure. Carbon footprint limited to lighting at night
Conclusion
Strangely, this Roman style structure has become quite iconic in the city. Not that much to explore and no historical background but visually arresting and an excellent place to sit down and take a break.
Key positive
Very photogenic
Key negative
No cultural aspect
Suitability
No restrictions
About this Rating
TYPE
Onsite
RESEARCHED IN
August 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 25m
est. visit time:0h 30m
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightOk
Night – aft. midnightNo