The Walt Disney Family Museum: Get Tickets Online To Visit

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Walt Disney Family Museum: Discover Early Drawings, Music & More

Highlights

Explore a vast 40,000 square-foot museum filled with animation history and creativity.

Discover original Disney drawings, cartoons, films, and music.

Interact with modern, multimedia displays narrated in Walt Disney’s own voice.

View a detailed scale model of Disneyland.

Learn about Walt Disney’s life from childhood to the creation of Disney World.

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.

Welcome to the Walt Disney Family Museum

Discover the captivating story of Walt Disney at The Walt Disney Family Museum, nestled within San Francisco’s historic Presidio. Explore immersive galleries, rare artifacts, and innovative exhibits that celebrate Disney’s enduring legacy. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a curious visitor, the museum offers an engaging experience for all ages. Secure your tickets today to embark on a memorable journey through the life and creativity of Walt Disney.

About The Walt Disney Family Museum

Photo by Jim Smith, © The Walt Disney Family Museum.

The Walt Disney Family Museum, located in the historic Presidio of San Francisco, is dedicated to celebrating the life, legacy, and innovative spirit of Walt Disney. Established by Disney's heirs, the museum offers visitors a rich and immersive experience through interactive galleries, rare artifacts, award displays, and engaging exhibitions, all housed within carefully restored historic buildings. This non-profit institution provides an insightful journey into Disney’s creative achievements and personal history, making it a unique destination for international tourists and Disney enthusiasts alike.

Address: 104 Montgomery Street, San Francisco, CA 94129 Founded: October 1, 2009
Annual Visitors: Approximately 200,000

Why Visit The Walt Disney Family Museum?

1. Comprehensive Life Story Galleries

Explore ten permanent galleries that chronicle Walt Disney’s remarkable life, from his ancestral roots to his lasting legacy. These carefully curated exhibits feature rare artifacts, original artwork, and personal memorabilia, offering an in-depth understanding of the man behind the magic and the evolution of his creative vision.

2. Original Awards and Honors Collection

Discover the impressive display of 248 awards earned by Walt Disney, including a rare full-sized Oscar and seven miniature statuettes for Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. This unique collection celebrates Disney’s groundbreaking achievements in animation and film, showcasing his enduring impact on the entertainment industry.

3. Fantasia-Inspired Digital Theater

Experience Disney films like never before in a state-of-the-art, Fantasia-themed digital theater located in the museum’s lower level. Visitors can enjoy daily screenings of classic and contemporary Disney movies, with programming that changes monthly to include special film presentations and premieres.

4. Interactive Animation and Art Exhibits

Engage with innovative, interactive displays that highlight early animation techniques, Disney’s original artwork, music, and sound design. These hands-on galleries provide a dynamic way to appreciate the artistry and technological advances that shaped Disney’s creations.

5. Lilly Belle Locomotive and Carolwood Pacific Railroad

View Walt Disney’s beloved Lilly Belle locomotive, part of his backyard ridable miniature railroad. This exhibit offers a glimpse into Disney’s personal hobbies and passion for engineering, revealing a lesser-known side of the visionary entrepreneur.

Which Ticket to Buy?

Full access to the museum’s permanent galleries and special exhibits.
View original drawings, rare animations, and over 200 video screens.
Experience interactive stations and hear recordings narrated by Walt Disney himself.
See the impressive detailed model of Disneyland.
Perfect for Disney fans, art lovers, and history enthusiasts wanting the complete experience in one visit.

Choose entry to 2, 3, 4, or 5 top attractions—including The Walt Disney Family Museum.
Valid for 30 days after first use, offering flexibility for sightseeing.
Access a variety of attractions such as museums, aquariums, sightseeing tours, and unique local experiences.
Save up to 50% compared to purchasing individual tickets.
Ideal for visitors wanting to combine the museum visit with other city highlights.

The Walt Disney Family Museum Timings

Regular Hours

Open Thursday through Sunday from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm.

Last entry is at 4:30 pm.

Extended Summer Hours (Memorial Day – Labor Day, May 26 – September 1, 2025)

Last entry is at 4:30 pm.

Open Thursday through Monday from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm.

Scheduled Closures

Closed on January 1.

Closed on every Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Closed on Thanksgiving Day.

Closed on December 25.

Special Early Closures

December 24 and 31: Closes at 4:00 pm, last entry at 3:00 pm.

Best Times to Visit the Walt Disney Family Museum

Mornings Right After Opening (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM)

Arriving soon after the museum opens gives you the chance to enjoy the galleries before the bulk of visitors arrive. This is especially helpful if you want to take your time with interactive displays, watch archival film clips without waiting, or move through the exhibits at your own pace.

Thursdays and Fridays

These weekdays often see fewer crowds compared to weekends, making them ideal for visitors looking for a quieter, more relaxed experience. With less foot traffic, you’ll have more time to linger over rare artifacts and personal stories from Walt Disney’s life

Outside School Breaks and Peak Tourism Months

Visiting in late winter or early fall—outside summer vacation and major holiday periods—tends to offer lighter attendance. This also makes it easier to combine your museum visit with exploring the Presidio’s scenic overlooks and trails.

During Special Programming

The museum frequently hosts film screenings, guest speaker events, and temporary exhibitions. Timing your visit to coincide with one of these programs can add an extra layer to your experience, giving you unique insights into Disney’s creative world.

The Walt Disney Family Museum Address

The Walt Disney Family Museum
104 Montgomery Street
San Francisco, CA 94129
Located within the Presidio’s Main Post, near the Main Parade Lawn.

How to Get to the Walt Disney Family Museum

By Car The museum is easily reached from Highway 101 or Interstate 280.
By Public Bus Several San Francisco Muni bus routes serve the Presidio area:
By Presidio Go Shuttle
By Train (BART)
By Bicycle
On Foot Wayfinding signs within the park guide you to the museum from popular spots like Crissy Field, the Main Post, and the Golden Gate Bridge overlook.

Things to Know Before Visiting The Walt Disney Family Museum

Facilities
Accessibility
Rules
Guidelines

Onsite Facilities

Washrooms: The museum offers clean and well-maintained restrooms on multiple floors for visitor convenience.

Restaurant: An on-site café serves a selection of snacks, beverages, and light meals, perfect for a quick break during your visit.

Souvenir Shop: The museum store features a wide range of books, collectibles, and exclusive Disney-themed gifts to take home as souvenirs.

Coat Check: A coat check is available for small bags and personal items, subject to space availability.

Seating Area: Comfortable seating areas are placed throughout the galleries, allowing guests to rest between exploring exhibits.

Parking: Paid parking is available in nearby Presidio lots, with easy access to the museum entrance.

Free Wi-Fi: Complimentary Wi-Fi is provided within the museum for all visitors.

Accessibility Features

Wheelchair Accessible: The Walt Disney Family Museum is fully wheelchair accessible, with elevators providing access to all exhibit levels.

Accessible Washrooms: Accessible restrooms are available on every public floor to ensure comfort for all guests.

Wheelchairs: Complimentary wheelchair loans are available at the front desk on a first-come, first-served basis.

Animals: Service animals are welcome inside the museum in accordance with ADA guidelines.

Hearing Aids: Assistive listening devices are available for select programs and tours to enhance the experience for visitors with hearing needs.

Captions: Most video presentations in the galleries are captioned for accessibility.

Accessible Parking Spots: Designated accessible parking spaces are located near the museum entrance for ease of access.

Rules and Regulations

Food Policy: Food and beverages are not permitted inside the galleries to protect the exhibits.

Photography Policy: Photography is allowed for personal, non-commercial use, but flash, tripods, and selfie sticks are prohibited.

Prohibited Items: Large bags and backpacks must be checked at the coat check before entering the galleries.

No Smoking Policy: Smoking and vaping are not allowed anywhere inside the museum building.

Children's Entry: Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all times for safety and supervision.

Touching Exhibits: Visitors are asked not to touch exhibits or display cases unless signage indicates that interaction is allowed.

Visitor Guidelines

Book Online: To secure your preferred time slot, it is recommended that you purchase or reserve tickets in advance.

Early Arrival: Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your timed entry to allow for check-in and security procedures.

Follow Staff Instructions: Please follow any special instructions provided by museum staff, especially for temporary or special exhibitions.

Quiet Galleries: Be mindful of other guests by keeping conversations quiet in gallery spaces.

Use Designated Seats: Use designated seating areas when taking a break, and refrain from sitting on the gallery floors.

Interesting Facts About the Walt Disney Family Museum

Independent and Intimate

Unlike Disneyland or other Disney-branded attractions, this museum is independent from The Walt Disney Company. It was founded by Walt’s daughter, Diane Disney Miller, and her family—allowing for a deeply personal, unfiltered portrayal of Walt’s life.

Disneyland - Through Walt’s Eyes

The museum features a spectacular 12-foot-diameter model of Disneyland—but not as it ever really looked. It represents the park as Walt imagined it, blending eras, featuring never-built designs like “Space Port,” and even two tiny hidden Walt Disneys—one walking with Diane under the castle, another riding in an Autopia car.

The Lilly Belle and the Mini Railroad

Deep in the museum, you’ll find the Lilly Belle—Walt’s beloved miniature locomotive—and other parts of his backyard Carolwood Pacific Railroad, which showcase his lifelong fascination with trains and craftsmanship.

A Treasure Trove of Awards

The lobby displays 248 of Walt’s awards, including his one-of-a-kind Oscar for Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs—a full-size statuette flanked by seven mini Oscars representing the seven dwarfs.

Schultheis Notebook: Disney’s Secret Recipes

One extraordinary exhibit is the Schultheis Notebook, a behind-the-scenes animation scrapbook from Disney’s golden age. Digitized and updated monthly, it lets visitors explore rare process notes and corresponding film clips.

Fantasia-Inspired Immersion

There’s an immersive, Fantasia-themed digital theater where you can watch classic Disney films daily—adding cinematic flair to your museum journey.

Family Stories at Every Turn

Each of the ten galleries pairs Walt’s history with family memories and artifacts, offering heartfelt perspective on his life—from childhood and marriage to the challenges he overcame.

Secret Bench That Sparked a Dream

A humble bench displayed in the museum is where Walt once sat with his daughters—Day out on a carousel ride inspired his vision for Disneyland. That moment on a bench led to one of the world’s most beloved theme parks.

Beyond the Myths

The museum doesn't just celebrate the magical highlights—it also tackles real challenges. It includes acknowledgments of contentious chapters like the 1940s animators’ strike and contributions from lesser-known but pivotal figures like Ub Iwerks and Mary Blair.

Backstage Collaborations

The museum played a key role in the creation of Disneyland’s first-ever Audio-Animatronic of Walt Disney, supplying family archives and his Presidential Medal of Freedom to help immortalize him in “Walt Disney – A Magical Life.”

The Walt Disney Family Museum: Highlights in Pictures

Walt and Lillian Disney on board The Rex, 1935

Walt’s Honorary Academy Award for Snow White and the
Seven Dwarfs, from the Academy Motion Pictures Arts and
Sciences

The museum commissioned a 12-foot diameter model of the
Disneyland of Walt’s imagination (2008-09), with attractions that Walt
himself developed at various times

Named after Walt’s wife Lillian, the Lilly Belle is a 1/8 scale
model of an actual steam-engine train. Built by his own hands,
Walt had this train run on a half-mile track around his Holmby
Hills home

The Presidio Park near The Walt Disney Family Museum, San Francisco

A rotatory carousel at the Museum. One of the first ways to showcase films.

Earliest known drawings of the famous Mickey Mouse.

Mickey Mouse dolls and merchandise, c. 1930s

FAQs About the Walt Disney Family Museum

What is The Walt Disney Family Museum?

It is a museum dedicated to the life, achievements, and legacy of Walt Disney, located in San Francisco's Presidio.

Where is the museum located?

The Walt Disney Family Museum is situated at 104 Montgomery Street, within the Presidio’s Main Post, in San Francisco.

When did The Walt Disney Family Museum open?

The Walt Disney Family Museum officially opened on October 1, 2009.

How long does a typical visit take?

Most visitors spend about two to three hours exploring the galleries and exhibits at the Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco.

What galleries are featured in the museum?

There are ten permanent galleries tracing Walt Disney’s life and special rotating exhibitions in the Diane Disney Miller Exhibition Hall.

Are there any interactive exhibits?

Yes, the museum includes interactive galleries with animation, artwork, and a 12-foot model of Disneyland.

Is the museum suitable for children?

Yes, it offers family-friendly programs, field trips, and engaging experiences for all age groups.

What are the opening hours of the museum?

Open Thursday through Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with last entry at 4:30 p.m., and additionally open on summer Mondays.

Is the museum accessible for visitors with disabilities?

Yes, the museum is stroller-friendly and features accessible parking and facilities.

Can I see Disney films at the museum?

Yes, the Fantasia-inspired theater screens Disney films daily with monthly changing programs.

Are guided tours available at the museum?

Guided tours and spotlight talks are offered, focusing on Walt Disney’s life and work.

What amenities are available at the museum?

Visitors can enjoy a museum store, grab-and-go café, and nearby dining options.

Is parking available near the museum?

There are two paid parking lots close by and limited street parking on Montgomery Street.

How can I get to the museum using public transportation?

Muni Route 43 and the Presidio Go Shuttle (Downtown Route) both stop at the Presidio Transit Center near the museum.

What is unique about the museum’s building?

The museum occupies historic Presidio buildings that have been retrofitted and expanded for museum use.

Are there any special exhibitions at the museum?

Yes, rotating major exhibitions often feature influential artists like Mary Blair and Disney-related themes.

Does the museum collaborate with The Walt Disney Company?

While independent, the museum collaborates for loans and authorized reproductions with various Disney units.

Can I attend special events and workshops at the museum?

Yes, the museum hosts classes, workshops, talks, and animation festivals throughout the year.

Is the museum a non-profit organization?

Yes, it is a 501(c)(3) non-profit owned by the Walt Disney Family Foundation.

Are there options to rent spaces within the museum?

The museum offers rental of spaces such as the theater and other venues for events and gatherings.

Is this the venue's official website?

This site offers official tickets to the attraction. It, however, is not the official website of the venue.