de Young Museum
An art museum in Golden Gate Park with collections of American, African, and Oceanic art. A copper-clad observation tower with a twisted design is free to climb for views over the park and the city.
The de Young Museum is a member of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco. The current building, completed in 2005 and designed by Herzog & de Meuron, has an exterior of perforated copper panels that oxidize and change color over time. The collection focuses on American painting, decorative arts, African and Oceanic tribal art, and textiles, and it often hosts major special exhibitions. The highlight is the 44-meter Hamon Observation Tower. The glass viewing deck at the top is free and offers 360-degree views of Golden Gate Park, the Pacific Ocean, and the tops of the Golden Gate Bridge towers. Admission is about $20, free on the first Saturday of each month. It is closed on Mondays. It faces the California Academy of Sciences across the plaza.
Opening hours
Tue–Sun 09:30–17:15, closed Mon
Nearby sights
- California Academy of Sciences
- Golden Gate Park
- Haight-Ashbury
- Baker Beach
- Twin Peaks
- Presidio & Crissy Field
- Painted Ladies & Alamo Square
- Palace of Fine Arts