Plan Your Visit to San Francisco Museum of Modern Art: Timings and Directions

Plan Your Visit to San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA)

Preparing for your visit to the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art ensures a rewarding encounter with one of the world’s leading modern and contemporary art institutions. Below is essential information to help you plan effectively and enjoy your time at SFMOMA.

SFMOMA – Ticket Information

Purchase Options

Tickets for SFMOMA can be bought in advance online, which is recommended to secure your preferred visit time and avoid queues. Admission tickets are also available at the museum entrance subject to availability.

Types of Tickets

Visitors can choose from General Admission tickets to explore the permanent collection and temporary exhibitions. For a more exclusive experience, VIP tickets offering priority entry may be available. Guided tour tickets provide expert-led insights into the artworks and museum history, enhancing visitor understanding.

Pricing

Admission is free for visitors aged 18 and under. Ticket prices for adults vary depending on the type chosen, with discounts occasionally offered for seniors, students, and local residents. Memberships grant free admission for members and a guest, plus early access to exhibitions.

SFMOMA – Visitor Guidelines

Bag Policy: All bags are subject to security screening upon entry. Large backpacks or oversized bags are not recommended due to limited storage facilities.

Photography: Non-flash photography using handheld devices is allowed in most exhibition spaces for personal use, except where expressly prohibited by signage. Professional photography or tripods require prior approval.

Food and Drink: Outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the galleries. The museum offers dining options including a rooftop pavilion where visitors may enjoy refreshments.

Conduct: Visitors are asked to respect artwork and fellow patrons by adhering to museum etiquette guidelines. Running, touching artworks, or loud conversations are discouraged to maintain a contemplative atmosphere.

SFMOMA – Location and Getting There

Situated at 151 Third Street in San Francisco’s vibrant SoMa district, SFMOMA is adjacent to Yerba Buena Gardens and close to major transit hubs. The museum is accessible via Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) and Muni Metro at the Montgomery Street station, both within walking distance. Although on-site parking is limited, nearby paid parking garages are available.

SFMOMA – Best Times to Visit

Weekdays, especially mornings and early afternoons, tend to be less crowded, offering a more intimate viewing experience. Thursday evenings provide extended hours until 8 p.m., ideal for visitors seeking a less busy atmosphere. Special exhibitions and events may attract larger crowds, so booking tickets in advance is advisable.

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) is situated at 151 Third Street, San Francisco, CA 94103, in the vibrant SoMa (South of Market) district. The museum is adjacent to Yerba Buena Gardens and lies near notable landmarks such as the art deco 140 New Montgomery skyscraper, providing visitors with a culturally rich and accessible urban setting.

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) Opening Hours

The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art welcomes visitors with the following schedule:

- Monday and Tuesday: Open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Wednesday: Closed to the public
- Thursday: Open from 12 noon until 8 p.m., providing extended evening hours for visitors
- Friday through Sunday: Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The museum store aligns its hours closely with the museum itself, operating:

- Monday and Tuesday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: 12 noon to 8 p.m.
- Friday through Sunday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

SFMOMA’s rooftop pavilion, which features dining options alongside a scenic sculpture garden, is accessible during regular museum hours; however, specific restaurant hours may vary according to the season or special events. Visitors are encouraged to check ahead for any updates on dining availability during their visit.

No special timing details for guided tours or other activities are specified here, but the museum’s extended Thursday hours offer a suitable window for attending evening programs or tours.

Good to Know Before Your Visit to San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

Good to Know Before Your Visit to San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
Rules and Regulations
Accessibility
Dining
Store
Hotels
Other Nearby Attractions

Visitors to SFMOMA will find a range of amenities designed to enhance their experience. The museum offers spacious galleries with seating areas for resting and contemplation. Free Wi-Fi is available to stay connected while exploring the exhibits. Cloakroom services provide secure storage for coats and bags, allowing visitors to enjoy the art comfortably. The museum features clean restrooms conveniently located throughout the venue. Additionally, the Koret Education Center offers spaces for workshops and educational programs, supporting both individual and group visits.

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art: Plan Ahead

When making reservations, booking tickets in advance is recommended to secure entry, especially during peak times. For attending events, check the specific event schedule and purchase event tickets early, as availability may be limited.

Free Cancellation

Approx 2h

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

Highlights

Explore seven floors featuring both permanent collections and rotating exhibits.

Enjoy pieces from celebrated artists like Andy Warhol, Frida Kahlo, and Jackson Pollock.

Discover over 47,000 artworks spanning multiple artistic disciplines.

Experience the Fisher Collection, one of the premier private collections of postwar and contemporary art.

Visit current temporary exhibitions, including special showcases like Kara Walker and Sheila Hicks.

Go City San Francisco: Explorer Pass

Highlights

Choose between 2, 3, 4, or 5 top San Francisco attractions to visit.

Enjoy exclusive savings of up to 50% compared to buying individual tickets.

Access a complimentary mobile app compatible with iOS and Android for convenience.

Explore iconic venues such as the Aquarium of the Bay and the California Academy of Sciences.

Use the pass within 30 days after activating it on first use.

Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA)

What are the museum’s opening hours?

SFMOMA is open Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Thursday from noon to 8 p.m. It is closed on Wednesdays.

Where is SFMOMA located?

The museum is located at 151 Third Street in the SoMa district of San Francisco, adjacent to Yerba Buena Gardens.

Are tickets required for entry, and can I buy them in advance?

Yes, tickets are required for admission. Visitors are encouraged to purchase general, VIP, or guided tour tickets in advance for convenience and availability.

Is admission free for certain groups?

Visitors 18 years and younger receive free admission at all times. Membership also grants free entry and other benefits.

How can I get to SFMOMA using public transportation?

SFMOMA is accessible via Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) and the Muni Metro at Montgomery Street station.

Are there guided tours available?

Guided tour tickets can be purchased to enhance your visit with expert insights into the collection and exhibitions.

Are there dining options at the museum?

Yes, the museum offers dining options including a rooftop pavilion with city skyline views.

Is the museum accessible to visitors with disabilities?

While specific accessibility details are not listed here, SFMOMA strives to provide an inclusive environment for all visitors. It is recommended to check for accommodations when planning your visit.