Palace of Fine Arts

The Palace of Fine Arts is an amazing structure in San Francisco, which was originally built for an exhibition to celebrate the completion of Panama Canal and also the city’s revival from the earthquake in 1906 and fire. Architect Bernard R. Maybeck was given the task of designing this palace and the theme, which he chose for it was of a Roman ruins to demonstrate ‘the mortality of grandeur and the vanity of human wishes’. The sight of the swans gliding at the adjoining pond and the impressive dome, which is ringed with a group of centaurs and warriors encountered in battles over nubile maidens are a treat for the eyes.

Initially the exhibition hall had impressionist paintings, but now the hall is home to a state of the art interactive science museum called Exploratorium. Inside, there is a replica of the palace of Fine Arts in Disney's California Adventure. For couples in San Francisco Bay Area, the palace is a popular venue for getting married. The San Francisco Palace of Fine Arts has been used as backdrop, for filming and has also been mentioned in books.

Visit palace of Fine Art

If you are visiting San Francisco, there are many places for you to visit and see. However, the Palace of Fine Arts is one attraction, which you must not miss out on visiting at any cost. Located near the west end of the Marina and Crissy Field, the palace is open at all hours, i.e. there are no fixed hours. The structure looks beautiful when it is lit in the morning; at dusk as well the building looks attractive. So, a good time to visit can either be early in the morning or at dusk, but you can go at other times as well.

How to go to Palace Fine Arts

The palace is conveniently located, where one can find access to all types of public transport. The San Francisco Muni buses which go there are #30, #43, #28, and #29; bus lines #22, #41, and #45 also stop in the surrounding area. Those taking Bart train will have to get off at the Montgomery Street station, and then walk half block to Market Street to Third Street and take the #30 Stockton bus from there. From Fisherman’s Wharf, take #30 Stockton bus to go to the palace.

From Drive 49 you have to follow Bay west to Laguna, turn right and then left to Marina Boulevard. Follow the 49 Mile Drive signs through the parking area and then at the traffic light go directly to Scott Street. From there turn right on beach and you will get to Palace of Fine Arts.