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Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco

3601 Lyon Street, San Francisco, California

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)

Meta review

Extremely popular spot for visitors who state that they enjoy the romantic environment - good for pictures and to take a break relaxing and/or reading. Unfortunately, the area is apparently a go-to spot for influencers so that it may not be as quiet as one would hope.

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

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit

av. transport time:0h 25m

est. visit time:0h 30m

Sunlight based

Sunrise / early morningOk

MorningOk

Lunch timeOk

AfternoonOk

Sunset / eveningOk

Night – bef. midnightOk

Night – aft. midnightNo

Pricing
Free

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