San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
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Established in 1935, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) has a rich history that shows its commitment to modern and contemporary art. Originally founded as the San Francisco Museum of Art, it started as a regional project, showcasing local artists and helping to create an appreciation for modern art on the West Coast. Over time, the museum began to embrace a broader range of artistic media and connect with a global community.
SFMOMA underwent a transformation in 1995 under the direction of Swiss architect Mario Botta. The changes included the addition of a striking cylindrical structure that symbolizes the museum's dedication to pushing boundaries. In 2016, the architecture firm Snøhetta added another big expansion, bringing a contemporary touch to the museum's architecture. SFMOMA has also been at the forefront of the emergence of digital art with online exhibitions and interactive initiatives.
How to Get There
Oakland and San Jose are the nearest major cities while the closest airports are San Francisco International Airport and Oakland International Airport. Get to the museum by Muni, the San Francisco public transit system; BART, the Bay Area Rapid Transit; cable cars; street trolleys; and taxis or rideshare options. There are also many drive and park locations throughout the Bay Area as well as car, moped, and bike share options.
Rent an RV For Your Visit to San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
Visit San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
One of SFMOMA's main attractions is the Living Wall, a vertical garden that covers the exterior of the museum. Inside the museum, the Fisher Collection, a remarkable compilation of modern artworks, stands out as a major focal point. Important pieces in the collection include works by Alexander Calder, Chuck Close, and Gerhard Richter. Nearby, the Pritzker Center for Photography showcases the museum's dedication to contemporary photography.
In spring and fall, the museum often hosts themed exhibitions, artist talks, and workshops that provide deeper insights into the world of contemporary art. The annual Modern Ball celebration offers a unique way to engage with the city's vibrant art scene.
Ticket Information
The museum's official website makes it easy to select your desired visit date and time, allowing you to plan your experience in advance. SFMOMA also offers on-site ticket purchasing for those who prefer a more spontaneous visit.
Ticket pricing varies based on factors such as age, membership status, and any special exhibitions that may be taking place. Visitors between the ages of 19 and 64 can enter for around $25 to $35 while those 65 and older can get discounts of up to $10. Visitors 18 and under and those with a museum membership can enter for free.
Family-Friendly Options
SFMOMA offers family-focused workshops and guided tours that encourage interactive exploration. These activities are tailored to different age groups, allowing children and parents to engage with artworks in fun and inventive ways. Throughout the museum, you'll find interactive installations designed to stimulate young minds. These installations often provide opportunities for tactile engagement and creative expression.
Before your visit, review SFMOMA's website for information about family-oriented activities, workshops, and any specific guidelines for children's admission. If you're visiting with a large group, consider contacting SFMOMA in advance to inquire about group rates, guided tours, parking, and any special arrangements that can enhance your visit.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
You might begin your day by exploring the museum's iconic works from the Fisher Collection. Later, you can transition to contemporary pieces by immersing yourself in the cutting-edge works of modern artists.
At lunchtime, you can recharge at one of SFMOMA's excellent restaurants. Then, you might spend your afternoon exploring the museum's many interactive installations and art spaces. Get your creative juices flowing with some of these hands-on activities and immersive exhibits.
Before you leave, take advantage of the museum's striking architecture to capture photos. You might try experimenting with angles and perspectives to capture unique shots. Incorporate elements of the museum's architecture in your photos to add depth and context.
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art Accommodations
Campgrounds Nearby
Candlestick RV Park is situated on the site of an old stadium. It is within walking distance of Candlestick Point State Recreation Area, and Bayview Park is also nearby. Plus, Highway 101 is only a few minutes away.
Overview
As San Francisco's only group campground, Rob Hill offers a national park camping experience just minutes from the city. Here you will have access to all of the recreational opportunities the Presidio of San Francisco has to offer, including hiking and biking trails, scenic overlooks, picnic sites, beaches, a golf course, and so much more. The campground's spacious campsites make it a perfect choice for groups of all kinds, including multi-family gatherings, school field trips, and scout troops. To learn more about the campgrouns rules we ask you to please read over the Terms and Conditions . We look forward to welcoming you to Rob Hill!
Recreation
Located at the Golden Gate, the Presidio of San Francisco is a place to escape in nature and explore key moments in history. The park features San Francisco’s best hiking and biking trails, scenic overlooks, picnic sites, beaches, a golf course, and other top attractions. And the Presidio is home to more than two-dozen visitor-serving businesses , including multiple museums, a golf course, and hotels and venues for celebrations and meetings .
There are a dozen major trails in the Presidio and eight scenic overlooks. Whether you are looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, the Presidio has a trail for everyone. Learn more about hiking and biking trails on the Presidio Trust website .
Visitors who wish to take advantage of the Presidio's many scenic bike routes can rent bikes through the Bay Wheels Bike Share program or at the Sports Basement on Crissy Field. Learn more about biking in the park on the Presidio Trust's biking page .
In addition to the many hiking and biking trails, the Presidio is home to some of the best beaches in San Francisco. Whether you’re looking to dip your toes in the water and splash with the kids, toss a Frisbee near the Golden Gate Bridge, or watch the sun set over the Pacific Ocean, we’ve got great choices for you. Learn more about our beaches on the Presidio Trust's beach page .
Facilities
Located at the Golden Gate, the Presidio of San Francisco is a place to escape in nature and explore key moments in history. The park features San Francisco’s best hiking and biking trails, scenic overlooks, picnic sites, beaches, a golf course, and other top attractions. And the Presidio is home to more than two-dozen visitor-serving businesses , including multiple museums, a golf course, and hotels and venues for celebrations and meetings .
There are a dozen major trails in the Presidio and eight scenic overlooks. Whether you are looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, the Presidio has a trail for everyone. Learn more about hiking and biking trails on the Presidio Trust website .
Visitors who wish to take advantage of the Presidio's many scenic bike routes can rent bikes through the Bay Wheels Bike Share program or at the Sports Basement on Crissy Field. Learn more about biking in the park on the Presidio Trust's biking page .
In addition to the many hiking and biking trails, the Presidio is home to some of the best beaches in San Francisco. Whether you’re looking to dip your toes in the water and splash with the kids, toss a Frisbee near the Golden Gate Bridge, or watch the sun set over the Pacific Ocean, we’ve got great choices for you. Learn more about our beaches on the Presidio Trust's beach page .
Natural Features
The Presidio is a natural oasis right next door to a big city – a place where you can experience wildflowers, watersheds, and wildlife on an afternoon hike. It is also a where important work is being done to revitalize natural areas and to show how people and the environment can thrive in harmony. At the Presidio, you can explore habitats that have been lost in the urban Bay Area; see a fox or a hawk hunt for their next meal; or stroll around a natural lake that has been brought back to life.
Mountain Lake, one of San Francisco's last surviving natural lakes, is located less than two miles south of Rob Hill on the southern edge of the Presidio. Since 2013 the Presidio Trust has been working with scientists, academic institutions, and volunteers to help revitalize the lake. Polluted soil and invasive species were removed from the lake, and native plant and animal species, such as the Western Pond Turtle and Pacific Chorus Frog are being reestablished. In addition to the many resident species that call Mountain Lake home, 65 migratory bird species have been document visiting the lake on their journey along the Pacific Flyway.
Experienced and newer birders alike will also want to visit Crissy Marsh and Quartermaster Reach Marsh , located about two miles northwest of Rob Hill. The fresh water that flows through the Presidio's largest watershed, the Tennessee Hollow Watershed ultimately meets the salty waters of San Francisco Bay here, creating a vibrant destination for more than 100 bird species, including those stopping for rest as they make their long journey along the Pacific Flyway.
Campers interested in learning more about some of the unique plant life that can be found in the Presidio are encouraged to visit the Ecology Trail . A little over one mile in length, this trail passes through lush restored serpentine grasslands where, from spring to early summer, you may see the endangered Presidio Clarkia and other native wildflowers in bloom. You'll also find yourself amid towering redwoods, oaks, eucalyptus, Monterey pine, and Monterey cypress at various points along the trail.
To learn more about the natural history of the Presidio, visit the Nature and Sustainability page on our website.
Nearby Attractions
In addition to the many places to visit within the Presidio, there is so much to explore in San Francisco itself. You can visit the Golden Gate Bridge, explore endless dining opportunities, visit a museum, and so much more. Visit the SF Travel website for tips to help you plan your visit to the city.
Located just over one mile from the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center , the campground makes for an excellent base camp for groups wanting to walk or bike across the Golden Gate Bridge. Check with the Golden Gate Bridge Highway and Transportation District for tips to make the most of your visit to this beloved International Orange icon.
Campers looking for more national park experiences can explore the other units of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA), including Fort Point National Historic Site , Muir Woods National Monument , and Alcatraz Island . Stretched across 80,000 acres north and south of the Golden Gate Bridge, the 37 parks sites of the GGNRA constitute one of the world’s largest national parks in an urban setting. In total, the GGNRA has more than 130 miles of trails, and 1,200 historic structures, making it a wonderful place to explore for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
Charges & Cancellations
Reservation holders may make up to two changes per reservation. A service fee may be charged at the time a modification is made depending on the changes.
Customers may cancel their reservation prior to arrival both on-line and through the call center. A $10 service fee will be withheld from any refund for a cancellation. Cancellations less than 14 days before the arrival date will pay a $10.00 service fee and forfeit the first night's use fee.
Please read Recreation.gov's Rules and Reservations Policies for more information.
Overview
Kirby Cove is located just north of the Golden Gate Bridge at historic Battery Kirby. Visitors are awarded breathtaking views of San Francisco, its famous Golden Gate Bridge, and the rugged Pacific Coast of northern California. Please note: The parking area for the campground is a short walk from the campsites, so RV or car camping is not allowed at Kirby Cove Campground.
Recreation
Hiking, picnicking and taking in the beautiful views from Kirby Cove are among the park's most popular activities. Visitors also enjoy exploring Battery Kirby, a historic army battery in use from 1898-1934. The Point Bonita Lighthouse and Nike Missile Site SF-88 are also close to the campsite.
Facilities
Hiking, picnicking and taking in the beautiful views from Kirby Cove are among the park's most popular activities. Visitors also enjoy exploring Battery Kirby, a historic army battery in use from 1898-1934. The Point Bonita Lighthouse and Nike Missile Site SF-88 are also close to the campsite.
Natural Features
Kirby Cove offers a coarse-sand beach with spectacular views - when it's not foggy - of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and northern San Francisco, including the historic Presidio. The cove is nestled at the foot of the craggy Marin Headlands and has beach access. A steep, mile-long trail to the cove begins at the parking area above Battery Spencer on Conzelman Road. The path descends through a stately grove of Monterey, cypress, pine and Blue Gum eucalyptus. Coastal sage and colorful Lupine dot the hillsides. Temperatures are mild year-round. Expect lows from 50-55 degrees and highs from 60-65. Fog is prevalent in the summer months from May-Sept. It is best to bring clothing that can be layered. Lightweight summer clothes are rarely comfortable to wear at Kirby Cove.
contact_info
For facility specific information, please call (415) 331-1540.
Nearby Attractions
The San Francisco Bay Area has no shortage of fun and interesting things to do and see. Awe-inspiring Muir Woods National Monument, with its old-growth coastal redwood forest and numerous hiking trails, is just a 20-minute drive from Kirby Cove. Mount Tamalpais State Park, with hiking and sweeping views of the Bay Area, is another 10 minutes past Muir Woods.
Downtown San Francisco offers a myriad of restaurants, shops, museums and tourist attractions. Fisherman's Wharf, Alcatraz Island and Chinatown are popular destinations. Visitors love riding San Francisco's world famous cable cars up and down the city's hilly streets.
Charges & Cancellations
The Kirby Cove Day Use Site must be cancelled or modified more than 14 days before your check-in date otherwise it will be considered a late cancellation.
You may also refer to Recreation.gov's Rules & Reservation Policies. To initiate a refund request more than 7 days after your reservation, call the recreation.gov call center at 877-444-6777.
Activities Near San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
Things to Do
Downtown Attractions
When it comes to exploring all that downtown San Francisco has to offer, a few major attractions stand out from the rest. Union Square is a bustling hub known for its high-end shopping, elegant dining, and vibrant street performances. Nearby, Yerba Buena Gardens is an urban oasis featuring landscaped gardens, public art installations, and a playground for kids. Situated about a block away, the Contemporary Jewish Museum focuses on Jewish art, culture, and history. It often hosts exhibitions, events, and educational programs.
Golden Gate Park
Relatively near SFMOMA, Golden Gate Park is definitely a must-visit. Rent a bike or take a leisurely walk through its gardens and picturesque trails.
The San Francisco Bay
Try exploring the San Francisco Bay on a boat cruise. During your cruise, you'll see iconic landmarks such as Alcatraz Island, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the city skyline from the water.
National Parks
National Sites
Weather, Safety & Accessibility
Weather & Packing
Spring in San Francisco brings mild temperatures and occasional rain showers. Layers are key during this season as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day. A light, waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and an umbrella can come in handy.
San Francisco's summer months are often cooler than summers in other regions. Fog and cool breezes are common, especially near the coast. Pack a mix of short-sleeved and long-sleeved shirts along with a light sweater or jacket for layering.
Fall is one of the best times to visit San Francisco. During the fall season, the city experiences warm days and cool evenings. Be sure to pack a mix of clothing for both warm and cool conditions along with a pair of comfortable walking shoes.
Winter in San Francisco is relatively mild although rain is common. A waterproof jacket, warm layers, and closed-toe shoes are best. You might also want to carry an umbrella and a hat to stay dry during light showers and avoid materials that absorb water.
Safety & Accessibility
SFMOMA has security measures in place, including bag checks at the entrance. Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but it's important to be respectful of other visitors as well as the artwork. Tripods, selfie sticks, and flash photography are prohibited in many areas.
Visitors should avoid touching the artwork unless otherwise indicated. Observe any roped-off areas and be sure to follow the designated paths. Consuming food and drinks isn't allowed inside the galleries, but you can always head to the museum's excellent cafes for meals.
SFMOMA is equipped with ramps, elevators, and accessible entrances to accommodate wheelchairs. Accessible restrooms are also available throughout the museum. Additionally, hearing-impaired visitors can request assistive listening devices at the information desk.
SFMOMA offers American Sign Language interpretation for select programs and events. You can contact the museum in advance to inquire about availability. Service animals are welcome at SFMOMA, but they must be properly harnessed and under control.
Conclusion
The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is a beacon of artistic innovation. From its iconic architecture to its world-class collections, SFMOMA will inspire and captivate visitors from all walks of life. As you plan your next adventure, consider exploring not only the artworks at SFMOMA but also the incredible beauty of the rest of the United States. Traveling in an RV offers a unique opportunity to experience the diverse landscapes and natural wonders that the country has to offer.
FAQ
SFMOMA doesn't offer any nearby camping options. However, there are campgrounds and RV parks within a short drive of downtown San Francisco.
SFMOMA is centrally located within a densely populated city that offers limited parking space. Consider parking your RV at a nearby RV-friendly facility and using the Bay Area's excellent public transit system to get to the museum.
Before visiting, review the museum's website for up-to-date information on current exhibitions and safety guidelines. Be mindful of San Francisco's fluctuating weather and stay prepared for varying conditions.
SFMOMA offers a range of family-oriented activities, workshops, and interactive exhibits. The museum's goal is to provide an enjoyable and engaging experience for visitors of all ages.
Unfortunately, SFMOMA doesn't allow pets. However, service animals are allowed for visitors with disabilities. Before you visit, make arrangements for any service animals in your group to ensure a smooth experience at the museum.