Palace of Fine Arts Theatre Reviews

Worth a short stop to walk the gardens and take in the scenery. It is a beautiful structure and park.

Very tranquil with beautiful architecture and lighting. There are multiple gardens and buildings. You should arrive about an hour before sunset so you can see all the gardens. If you’re into photography, this will give you time to also set up to catch the blue hour. Definitely walk under the dome, it’s beautiful.

We parked nearby, had a look at the Golden Gate Bridge and walked here. Great photo spots and well worth a visit.

I was actually surprised how much I enjoyed visiting here. It is quieter than Golden Gate, although obviously not as big. But I found it to be so pretty and peaceful. We walked from the Ferry Building area so were glad to have somewhere to rest for a bit.
It's a pretty park with a pond and the architecture, while imitation, is still quite impressive. There were quite a few people having their wedding photos taken when we were there.
And beware the ducks... they are not afraid of people and won't hesitate to walk right up to you while you sit on the grass near the pond.
I'm glad we took the time and came here. It's also in a pretty part of the city.

The Palace of Fine Arts is one of my favorite spaces and definitely a must-see when I visit San Francisco. The minute I walk into the park a feeling of serenity and peace wash over me. Walking around looking up at the massive columns and archways is breathtaking. The gardens, the lagoon, the fountains, and the trees are all so peaceful. Just an amazing place.

We looked through trees to what I thought was a water tower.
It was a folly of great size built to look old in a Fair of 1915. The buildings were built to look like ruins. Tourist buses are prohibited so catch a local bus that links in with the cable cars. Only 1 dollar 35 for people 65 and over. We walked at the start along the water front.
The place has great photo sights.
Snap away and wonder what is was all for.
Free and good.

It was a wonderful experience and well worth it to hear the story and visit this place in San Francisco, California. Although we could only see what was left, it was enough for us to feel the magnificence of this famous tourist destination.

A temporary building so pretty they made it permanent, this is one of my favorite spots in the city and a nice escape from the tourist zone. It's accessible by public transit (not MUNI or BART, but bus) but easiest to reach by car or rideshare.

Great park for photos and a very tranquil area. Loved the colours shinning through the sunshine. Would love to see at night next time.

I last visited 16 years ago with my infant daughter. We came back this year and I’m not disappointed. It looks just as beautiful and serene as it was before. The pond is lovely and the structure is amazing. So much bigger in real life. They have little benches so you can sit and enjoy the views and peace and quiet. Definitely visit if you have the time.

We were really surprised by this.
It sits next to a lovely pond and park. The building is really beautiful - you can walk around it and underneath it. We didn’t go in to see any art - the building was enough. Beautiful

I have seen the palace of fine arts in movies, heard about this and read about it and finally visited it on the 24th of May 2023. The Palace of Fine Arts is a monumental structure located in the Marina District of San Francisco, California, worth visiting while one is in San Francisco. If one goes on a weekday then there is less of a crowd but one can find families, couples, photographers enjoying the scenic view. The Palace of Fine Arts is an extravagant neoclassical icon—a faux palace surrounded by an idyllic pond, its reflective surface graced by snow-white swans. It's one of San Francisco's most popular spots for wedding photos. I found this place to be a photographer’s delight !!
Dr. Javed Rasheed

This was an unexpected find for us as we were not familiar with this place. The setting is fantastic with the pond (and swans), trees and building. Very interesting architecture as nothing like this is built anymore. It was a pleasure to walk around to get different perspectives. There doesn't seem to be anything to see inside, but it was certainly worth the visit.

You wouldn’t think this place is in the US. It looks like a place you’d see in Greece. It’d take you about 10 minutes to walk around and maybe 30 minutes if you want to check the event inside. It’s very close to the Golden Gate Bridge so it’s definitely worth visiting.

The Palace of Fine Arts Theatre complex is a unique place to visit in San Francisco. It is practical to take Uber or Lyft, back and forth to the entry point. Nearby public parking areas are not deemed safe because of risk of car jacking. The architecture of the different structures are truly unique and worth visiting. The best time to visit is just before sunset to see the same when lights start projecting.

I love going to concerts and this theater is outstanding. It took us awhile to find the entrance though so look for the maps around the grounds of the park. If you are facing the palace monument and lagoon on the inside move back out to the semi circle parking lot and you will find the theater entrance off the parking lot. They have a large lobby with attendants to help you find your seats. The seats were comfortable with ample leg room, clean bathrooms and the acoustics are excellent. The inside of the theater itself is plain looking but you'll want to add extra time to take photos of the monument in the park. The lighting and reflections at night are gorgeous and the day time is awesome too.

This place was built for the Panama pacific world fair of 1919. The buildings are like roman architecture. And is a nice walk through a lake and displays the wealth and influence this beautiful city had a 100 yrs ago and still does

I have to visit the Palace of Fine Arts each time I am in San Francisco. It is truly magical and full of history. Astonishing to see what beauty we humans are capable of creating.

This is a gorgeous area to walk around and admire the architecture. I'm glad they have not destroyed it. Thanks for the up-keep of the place, it's just wonderful to see and read about.

Beautiful scenic architecture and amazing picture opportunities. We enjoyed a Romantic walk through the structures on a crisp dark late evening.
A fantastic free and cool attraction to do in the city!

I'd only driven past this site on previous trips. I'm so glad I went there and walking around. It's even more beautiful to wander around on a nice day. It's also a great artifact of San Francisco's past from the 1915 World's Fair.

We stumbled upon this park while going to visit the Golden Gate Bridge. The buildings are very large and resemble roman architecture. There was a musician inside feeding the pigeons who was entertaining. The lakes had swans and ducks.

Really impressive looking building.
The architecture is amazing, stone pillars with decorative features. Well worth a visit.

I have wanted to see this place for years. It exceeded my expectations. Gorgeous...peaceful. I wish I had gone at night too in order to see it lit up.

The Palace of Fine Arts was one of ten palaces that comprised the grounds of the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exhibition. The Palace of Fine Arts was designed by Architect Bernard Maybeck, who took his inspiration from Roman and Ancient Greek architecture in designing what was essentially a fictional ruin. Although designed only to last for the temporary period of the exhibition, the Palace of Fine Arts continued to be used for San Franciscans. However, because the colonnade and rotunda were not built of durable materials, and were framed in wood and then covered with staff, a mixture of plaster and burlap-type fiber, the structure became a crumbling ruin. In 1964, the Palace was demolished and was completely rebuilt with modern durable materials. It remains a startling architectural wonder to behold. The adjacent lagoon adds to the mystique of the Palace giving some wonderful reflections at day or night.

If you are into architecture, this is the place you want to see. Magnificent design and intricate detail of each structure. A must to visit in San Francisco area.

My friend recommended this place when we came to visit San Francisco in August 2018. It is very unique, fun to explore and perfect for picture taken. My family was intrigued. I just wished the water was nicer. It's very dirty from the birds. Other then that it was very enjoyable. Must see!

This place is really very beautiful and well done as well as attention to detail. I honestly think it is one of the most beautiful places in San Francisco

It was a really pretty place. There were lots of opportunities to take pictures amongst the majestic columns. We were fortunate that the weather was pleasant when we dropped by, so that was a nice bonus to the experience. Apart from that, there’s not much else to do here.

I took a stroll here at dusk. I was travelling solo but didn't feel at all unsafe in the neighbourhood. Here it was very quiet, scenic, and grand. Well worth going out of my way to see this.

A friend recommended this slightly quirky place and we visited in the morning of our last day in San Francisco and we were very glad we did. It’s on the edge of the bay with a good view of the bridge, located in an upmarket area and it is very well maintained. Lovely garden and lake with herons, turtles etc. Lots of photo opportunities with the lake, bridge and buildings. There was a poor guy spending time composing his photo of the lake with a tripod who kept getting interrupted by the instagrammerati.

They knew we are spectators here. BE extra CAREFUL with car window breakers early am, day, or night.

Astonishing buildings from the early 20th century recreating classical Roman style. Very nice walk around the pond as well.

Maybe we went the wrong day but the place deserves no more than a quarter of an hour of your time for some shots on your way to the Golden Gate

Informative and fun tour of the building palace of the fine arts and the history of the 1915 exposition of which this is the only remaining building. The setting is beautiful, the walk is easy and the guide was informative.

If you are in San Francisco, don’t miss to check out The Palace of Fine Arts. It’s one of the most instagramable places in San Fo! Imagine It was built in 1915 and it is still standing there! It has withstood the test of time.... not to mention very historical. You will be in awe with the view of the beautiful lake beside it.

The Universal Exposition in San Francisco was a celebration of the opening of the Panama Canal in February 1915, which the United States occupied. The United States invited countries from all over the world to attend and China to join. The US officially recognized Yuan Shikai's regime in Beijing on May 2, 1913, as the first country to recognize it as the Chinese government. The United States valued its relations with China at that time and sent envoys to China to persuade them. China built Chinese-style archaized buildings and 31 countries took part in the 1915 exhibition. The only building left is the Rome Pavilion.

This is a great place for photography. Parking is plentiful and is free. The short trail along the lake next to the structure is both relaxing and provides additional vantage points for getting more great shots.

Had been to SF many times and never seen this. Saw it listed on TA and dragged the family there after a visit to the lookout for the Golden Gate Bridge. Everyone from adults to teens was struck by the grandness, enormity and beauty of the structure. Parking was easy and we enjoyed a walk around the lake and spotting the turtles and swans. Saw a wedding party doing pictures and I would expect that's a common occurance in such a striking setting.

This is a magical little walk through the remnants of the 1915 Panama Pacific Exposition. It's a little oasis of faux Roman ruins and reflecting pool, and includes an exposition center on site. It is now sandwiched between to busy thoroughfares, but provides a quiet respite with easy pedestrian access to the The Presidio and Crissy Field, or the Marina district.

This place is serene an it lies one with nature - the pond, flora and fauna.
Its a nice walk and allows for beautiful pictures.
I visited in Dec and temperatures were in the range of 9 - 11 C. It was overcast and it did rained a little which caused the sky to be dark. Pictures were a hit and miss due to that but the time walking through there was a good memory.

Nice architecture and gardens to walk around for a couple of minutes. It doesn't take long to visit this place. The Presidio area has several others sites of interest to visit close by.

This was a surprise! We enjoyed a leisure walk around the grounds. Weddings, birds, swans and turtles. On a grand scale this place leaves us in awe of the beauty!

Did a morning photoshoot at the Palace of Fine Arts.
If you are able to catch sunrise, it's absolutely beautiful~!

This stunning landmark in SF that is worth visiting for it's small pond, and greenery. It's great for picnics and taking photos to memorialize your visit to the charming city.

I saw a show here, the staff were lovely. The place is impressive and maybe I should have stayed longer - just had a look whilst waiting for the show

The facility is hot spot for the tired tourist thirsty to spend some time in nice park, water of just to see old roman architecture.
In the lake a lot of wild birds including swans are looking for food or being just curious about the visitors.

The place is nice but you don't understand much what it does there.
It seems like you are in Italy or Greece, but clearly that impression soon passes. For a quick walk you can get there after touring the Golden Gate and bordering the beach you reach this place.
IF you have time, visit it, if not, you won't miss much.

This absolutely beautiful structure is done in Beaux-Arts style architecture that was popular in the early 1800s, meaning there are a lot of both french and baroque influences making it super ornate and stunning to look at, every detail is a marvel. There are Grecian women looking over the edge "into" the theater, greek urns on the ledges, latticework in the rotunda, stunning columns in a russet red color, shell and floral stonework at the top of the pillars; everywhere you look there is something more to see. If you love architecture you should allow at least an hour to see this stunning sight.

Unavoidable!! Super beautiful day and evening. Very pleasant to walk outside through the great architecture!!

This is a great place to visit for the amazing architecture and history. Take the family for a picnic, or bring a book and sit and read and enjoy the beauty. Lots of people watching available here too, no charge! I believe there may be a museum, some event venues, and a movie theater here, but I have only enjoyed the outside setting.

A replica of roman architecture, this was built in 1915 for the Panama - Pacific Exhibition. We stopped on our bikes for half an hour. It sits beside a lake and when not too busy with tourists, is a beautiful and serene place to visit.

Built before WW1 in the antique style this monument is rather incongruous yet pleasing and sits in a park near a reflecting pond .

We took a walk around the lagoon in front of the Palace Of Fine Arts on the morning of October 4. Not crowded. Saw several species of birds roosting in the trees. It was still warm enough for the hummingbirds to be feeding on the trumpet vine all on the south side of the promenade.

It's a lovely place to visit any time of day, but please beware of theft. Any time of day around any San Francisco tourist spot is fair game. A local told us she chased a suspicious character away from our vehicle. Do not leave anything of value in the car or exposed!

This is a place you have to visit while in San Francisco, easy to get to by bus or walking if you are into that. We spent about 30 min here taking pictures in our way to GG bridge. Serene, landscaped, walking paths around the lake and into the main structure, good spot for pictures. Homes around are very pretty also. Looks like a very nice area to live in San Francisco.

We stopped here for a picnic the day we arrived in San Francisco, it is such a beautiful place. Very calm and you can walk around the outer buildings.

This venue is beautiful on the outside, but the parking is horrific. I would recommend taking Lyft or Uber to get here if you need to drive. Like everywhere in SF, I only go if I need to. This is one of them. We saw a fantastic concert here, so in this case it was worth it. The theater was nice with good acoustics, but the concert is what made this experience, not the location.

Visit the Palace of Fine Arts late in the afternoon to catch the changing light of the evening and to watch the lights come on as the daylight fades away. This is a San Francisco park, but I have never seen a park policeman come through. The grassy park is a favorite for picnickers and cloud watchers. People like walking the paths and enjoying the plants, flowers and waterfowl. Taking pictures for weddings and other celebrations is also very popular. As well as an interesting backdrop, the Palace itself is also a wonderful photo subject. So bring your tripod and camera and take photos throughout the time you are there. It is a great place to spend time. Safe travels. Cheers.

Underrated attraction. It is picturesque, larger than expected, not crowded and free. Will not take long (around 30 minutes) to see but worth it. Some seating (benches, wall) is available within the park.

To see... it's very beautiful, reminiscent of ancient civilizations...
Very nice walk, small flower garden with a stsgno and several birds present... there were several brides present to take the ritual photographs...

The Palace of Fine Arts was built in 1915 for the Panama-Pacific Exhibition, inspired by Greek and Roman architecture. Because of its beauty, it wasn't destroyed after the exhibition was ended, and since then it has had different uses. Today it has a theater, and it surrounded by a park and a small lake. A nice place to stroll.

Even if you don't go inside, the architectural and landscape design are amazing to just go by and stroll the gardens. To have a picnic on a date or with family.

Wow did not expect this when we headed towards the Palace of Fine Arts. The size and the beauty of this structure in the middle of the city was a wonderful surprise. We walked around, took ton of pictures and enjoyed the beauty of this park. Impressive!

This is a wonderful art exhibit structure that you actually walk through. Beautifully lit up at night, it is pleasant and relaxing by day. An absolute must see on you visit to San Francisco.

A Lovely Evening for A Wine Event

In January, we were guests at a major wine event, at the Palace of Fine Arts, 3601 Lyon St, near the Persidio. We had used our regular driver, to get there from our hotel, in the Union Square Area, and had booked with him, for a pickup, when the event was over, as we were not sure what the taxi/ride-share situation would be. That worked fine.

We arrived just a bit early, so had a moment to take in the beauty of the grounds, and the gorgeous architecture. The lighting was lovely, and even when we exited, well after dark, everything was beautiful, and took on an entirely different lool.

At the appointed time, we entered, and explored the wine-tasting tables, scattered about a very spacious hall. After an hour, or so, we were called to dinner, which was atop a structure in the main hall, with a view of the exhibits down below.

The meal, and the wines were very good, and all service was great.

If there was a complaint it was with the PA system used. Due to the cavernous nature of the main hall, there was a bit of an echo, but not sure that the Palace of Fine Arts had provided the audio equipment?

When the event was winding down, we walked out to the pre-arranged pick-up point, and our car was waiting for us - all so very, very easy, and in a lovely venue.

Very pretty. The park around it is pleasant, and the architecture of this place was awesome. Plenty of benches to sit and people watch and enjoy the day.

Definitely a must see. Not huge and can walk in about 45 minutes, but beautiful work and so peaceful

This place is absolutely breath taking. It's so beautiful. The pictures aren't photoshopped! It is absolutely that beautiful.

The timeless beauty of this place is just so amazing! Great place for strolling, taking in the beauty of the place & people-watching!

We visited for a photo shot around 10:30 am on Sunday. The place is breathtaking, and there are plenty of good spots for photographs. If you want photos without people in the background, try to arrive during off-peak times. Most people are conscience to stay out of the shot, but sometimes it is inevitable.

Beautiful and picturesque. Such a lovely Palace to visit. Recommended by My daughter , very European.

We spent over an hour just walking through The Palace of Fine Arts. It is just lovely and so peaceful. The sculpture is amazing.

Walking around the Palace of Fine Arts makes you forget that you are in modern city. The architecture reflects that of Classical Europe and makes for a nice stroll around the grounds. A great spot for those who love architecture and photography.

This is the kind of place that you have to visit in San Francisco! It is a beautiful place for architecture appreciation and to have a good view of pier. You can visit alone or with your family, see the lake and the swans. It's possible to rest and appreciate the location. Hint: There's a parking lot nearby free for 2 hours.

The Palace of Fine Arts is located in the Marina District, west of Fisherman's Wharf. The impressive antique-style structure was built in 1915 for the Panama-Pacific International Exposition. Today it is a popular park with a large pond where you can watch swans, ducks and even turtles. Wedding photos were taken in the large rotunda during our visit – no wonder, because the backdrop is very photogenic.

Overall, it is a nice place to stretch your legs or take a short break, even if it usually has quite a lot of visitors.

The palace of fine arts is a must-do for any san Francisco road trip. It has amazing views and a peaceful environment. It only takes 30min-1hr of your day.

The years pass, but this Building in San Francisco, still deserves a stop. It can be 10 minutes or an hour, depending on your level of curiosity to explore all different corners.
A good place to lunch after the visit is the Cheestnut street, full of good restaurants. (10 min walk).

This is honestly a great place to take a nice stroll. Good to do at all times of the day. I would recommend doing so at sunset just before the lights turn on. Sometimes people hold events in the area so there is definitely a lot going on all the time.

It is a short walk from Crissy Field so if you wanted to follow up with a nice picnic after checking this place out, that wouldn't be a bad follow up.

I always wanted to visit this place and I'm glad to have finally made it! Lovely place to wander, sit and read or picnic. Be sure to walk or drive and see it from both sides of the pond. Easy walk to the beach for views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz.

A nice place to spend an afternoon to relax or explore the nice Roman style architecture, lake, and some swans. We saw a swan taking a nap by the wall with a sign (seems like he/she resting here a lot). Laying on the grass to view the palace and its reflection while swan and ducks playing on the lake, is a second to none activity in summer. The houses by the lake are unique with its own features to attract more our attention. Thus is definitely a must visit spot before/after your marina tour.

On the long walk from Pier 39 to Golden Gate Bridge, I detoured to visit this site as I had not been to the Palace for more than 20 years. It was a brilliantly sunny day- so many people were visiting, strolling or just sitting on the benches enjoying the afternoon. The grounds were well kept, the foliage pristine but the main building was being set up for an event. The largest structure was monoithic against a backdrop of smaller, shorter buildings and gardens. Those who remember the Hitchcock classic, "Vertigo", will remember this venue. Definitely a pleasant detour en route to the big bridge!

This is part of what was left over from the Pan-Pacific Expo circa 1915, not a big theater that is used for special events. An impressive space.

This was the location that my daughter and son-in-law selected for their wedding.

The weather and venue were perfect.

The grounds are beautiful, well worth a visit.

You immediately find yourself in an antique Roman atmosphere! It's a great place for people who like taking photo and video. The pond and the small park next to it is an additional beauty. This area is totally a spectacular area. No more words! Please go and feel and breathe the atmosphere. Then you will thank me!!! Even if you are not interested in history, be sure that it is a spectacular area.

Since I took Uber, I am not aware of any parking facility.

My nephew had found a video showing this place, what a jewel, if your in San Fran you have to go it’s stunning. It reminds me of European Architecture.A must see and easy to get to by public transport

The Palace of Fine Arts Theatre's Greek-style colonnades and soaring central rotunda make it one of the most singular and recognizable features of San Francisco's northern skyline. Located at 3301 Lyon Street, on Baker Street in the Marina neighborhood, on the eastern edge of the Presidio, it dominates a small neighborhood park that features lawns to picnic and a tranquil lagoon populated with fish, birds and turtles. Open daily from 10 to 5, it is the only remaining structure from the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition, a historic World's Fair-style event that put San Francisco back on the map as a major global city after the devastation of the 1906 earthquake and fire. It is known to host a variety of art exhibitions and events year-round, including dance performances, live music and comedy. The Neoclassical structure's most prominent feature is the 162-foot-tall open rotunda which is flanked on each side by large colonnades topped by statues of weeping women with their backs turned, meant to evoke a sense of melancholy and contemplation among the hustle and bustle of the fair. The original structure was composed of a metal frame with wooden reinforcements and a plaster and burlap mix. It fell into ruin in the 1950s. In 1964, the palace was completely rebuilt as a permanent concrete structure.

We stopped off here whilst on a hop-on, hop-off bus tour so we didn’t go inside or attend any events. The exquisite exterior architecture and grounds are good for a stroll and some photography. The pond had some large turtles some swans, and some other unusual birds. We visited in afternoon, but it is said to be even better at sunset.

Excellent place to spend some time. It's quiet! You can enjoy the lake and the ducks as the architecture.

Beautiful building and area to stroll. The pond is lovely and the various types of birds are fun to spot. This is a must visit while in San Francisco.

Such an amazing place, even if the design is stolen from the Roman. Well situated in a nice and clean park. Just an amazing building. Recommended

One of my favorite place in SFO. Good for couples, group of friends, family or even solo. Love walking here very calm and the view is stunning. Architecture is amazing feel like I'm back in old times. Best to come during sunset for me :) If you want some peace of mind you can just seat in the grass or in some bench available and watch the beautiful lake with ducks and birds flying.

Roman inspired architecture surrounded by lots of green areas and a beautiful small lake. Ideal for taking romantic pictures of weddings/ engagements, etc

The Palace of Fine Arts is located near the Marina Green, Crissy Field and the San Francisco Presidio... it is a remnant of the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition as a place to exhibit art. It was restored in 1965 at its original location and had a seismic retrofit completed in 2009.
The rotunda May be the most memorable part of the restored landmark, but the adjacent exhibit hall now houses a performing arts stage which has seating for almost 1000 visitors.

Magnificent green area has free parking and lots of sitting areas.
Take awesome pix any where around the pond. Watch out, There are birds wading in the water. The Palace is in a residential neighborhood with stunning homes. If you walk around you might get a glimpse of the bridge.

When I came, I was expecting the beautiful Palace, but I was pleasantly surprised by how beautiful the park surrounding it was! Take some time when you're there to follow the trail around the lake and learn a bit about the history Palace.

Most definitely worth visiting when you are in San Francisco. It is free to walk around the grounds and take as many photos as you like. The size of the structure will absolutely amaze you when you are up close.

One of my favorite places in the world. I love going back there on every visit to San Francisco. The structure is so beautiful and the sight reflected along with the lake at all hours of the day is special.
Picnic on the lawn is highly recommended.

Didn't go inside.

Can only say that outside is beautiful !

Everywhere you look is a postcard, so you can take amazing pictures.

However, be aware .... don't leave any valuables inside your car!! SF is having a huge problem os thieves breaking into cars, in broad day light, and taking everything.
I saw it happen on Lombard Street and spoke with a cop, he said they are not even respecting the police anymore, it happened 100 yards from him the day before at The Painted Ladies. Be aware, be very careful!

We saw this place at a distance after leaving the Golden Gate after dark and had to check it out. WOW! The place was stunning, ancient Rome-like. I don't know what it's like during the day but I would highly recommend a visit at night. The lighting was perfect and it was fun to walk through the structure. A night visit may limit the tourist-chaos, especially in November. It would be interesting to know more about what is available during the day but I was very happy with our night visit.

Not much to do except walk around and enjoy the building and scenery. It would be a great park to have lunch but it is located in a residential area and there wasn’t anything around. Next time will bring a lunch so we can hang out longer but other than that it was still very pleasant to walk around the building.

Not far from the golden gate bridge. This is a nice place to stop by and have a look around. It's quite peaceful. I heard that the dome was the inspiration for R2D2!

It is a structure not to be missed, it gives a feeling you are away from a busy city. Just the perfect place for photography. Nice walk around the lake and see the ducks out , very peaceful a place to unwind and just enjoy the nature.

Very pretty to see. The place is very beautiful as well as the monument. Very pleasant walk in the park. I recommend it +++

The best place for a quiet and reflective walk, enjoying Ancient Greek style sculptures and frescas, the magnitude of which mesmerizes. The park itself is a masterpiece of landscaping and the examplary atrium architecture is a classical illustration of the history of Roman art. A must see on a tourist map.

This place is a MUST to visit when in SanFo.. It’s amazing architecture.. The walls are so detailed.. I just love being there.. As if I am at peace and you can feel serenity.. We came at weekdays so there are not that too many tourists around...

I've often walked over tot he park in the evening from my hotel and watched the sun set and the lights come on. It's a great time to grab some cheese, crackers and other snacks and sit in the grass to enjoy one of SF's highlights. During the day enjoy the local waterfowl who inhabit the lake as well as the beauty of the complete complex. This is a great place to practice your camera skills or take the perfect picture. Come and enjoy!

This is a fantastic modern ruin-like monument, which features impressive and imposing Greco-Roman architecture.
While there's very little to do here, other than enjoy the architecture, it's well worth the visit.

A picturesque place closer to the Golden Gate bridge- arches and buildings in the periphery of a nice water body. A relaxed place to enjoy nature and enjoy clicking pictures and videos. Many enjoy the photoshoots in this place.

Gorgeous to see! Stopped here on a bus tour. Would be beautiful at night. Awesome that they left the place stand with nothing inside.

This was a stop on our Grand city tour of San Francisco. We got 20 minutes to walk around here but you do need some more time. We saw couples having their wedding photos taken here. Seems a popular thing to do and the same reason why it was a popular film location for dozens of movies.

Don't let the name fool you. It's not a Palace in the real sense of the word but it is in scale and grandeur!

Can't believe that these amazing structures were built for an International Exposition! (Similar to the Eiffel Tower). It's funny how we no longer build statement-making structures that can last hundreds of years to celebrate milestones or achievements any longer.

The architecture is stunning and massive! I felt like we were in a land of giants!

I saw locals sitting on the lawns and on benches looking at the water. It's a very serene place. If you have the opportunity do go have a look. It will take your breath away!

This is a must see attraction for visitors to San Francisco. The structure is simply awe inspiring. Even though it was built over a century ago, the place is well kept and clean without the grime and bird dropping usually found in historical buildings. Parking is available but may be hard to come by.

An unexpectedly quiet place along the way. A beautiful piece or architecture surrounded by water. There are swans swimming in the lake too. Very peaceful.

i was there on a beautiful April spring day and the place was beautiful. it is a nice place to walk around.

This is a beautiful place to go for a walk. It is a magnificent building with artwork on the different pillars. There is a nice pond beside it as well.

From the Marina district, you can see the top of the building and its distinctive dome. This is a venue for fine arts exhibit, this building is 100+ years old. In some parts of the columns, it’s showing some deterioration with some of the statues’ heads are missing. But nevertheless this is the place to seek refuge with your aching feet. Take a seat at the benches facing the pond and open your camera shutters. This place displays a romantic ambiance for the dating couple. You can visit the exhibits inside or simply rest under the dome and near the pond. Wedding picture perfect.

I had been to San Francisco a few years ago but didn’t get to see this destination. This time around I made sure to head there first thing. It is a beautiful location with the water feature and pretty plants, it is for me worth taking the time. Also the beautiful homes that surround it are great to see the architecture so typical of the area.

We did not go inside but the gardens are amazing and definitely worth a walk around the gardens. Lots of ducks, swans, turtles, cranes …. Just beautiful.

The Palace of Fine Arts is definitely worth a visit. You can get the hop on hop off bus there. Spend time, walk around. It's beautiful architecture on a grand scale. It's peaceful and you'll recognise parts of it from certain movies like Venom or So I Married an Axe Murderer. There's not much around it as it's a residential area so we couldn't find a cafe or anywhere to grab a drink. Go round then jump back on a bus.

The few remaining buildings from the exposition. We visited this palace during our night bus tour. The lights in the evening looks fantastic.

Although I did not enter the museum, I was able to walk around the palace exterior. Its European-like architecture is most unique for San Francisco. The water surrounding the theatre provides a wonderful setting. Located in the lovely Marina District, adjacent to Crissy Field, a visit to the Palace of Fine Arts would be a perfect addition to a day out in the area.

Beautiful place with amazing architecture and cute animals like ducks and geese
The place was clean and organized.

Beautiful self guided tour. Worth the time. Huge beautiful structure w a million photo ops and public bathrooms. It’s peaceful and romantic and on the way to Chrissy Fields!

Located in the Marina District of San Francisco (near the Golden Gate Bridge), it is a group of monumental structures originally constructed for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition. The Palace itself with its pillars and decorative features is well worth a visit. It is overlooking a nice pond with a park with benches. We suggest you add this visit while going at the Presidio nearby (Walt Disney Family Museum, Letterman Digital Arts campus, etc.), since it is very far from Downton and even a good walk from the Fisherman Warf.

This place is amazing looking and has incredibly architecture. You can get a pretty good look at the area around the palace. It COULD be a potentially peaceful spot to sit and enjoy nature, but my visit was interrupted by the constant flow of Instagram and Tik Tok "influencers" who are more interested in their clout than preserving the peace/harmony of the area. I'm guessing this is a pretty normal thing for San Francisco though, so maybe locals are more used to it than I am.

Definitely worth the stop. Spectacular architecture when you see it up close. Impressed with how big and ornate the structures were.

I had not seen this up front in person, only in TV, and wow, it is one heck of an architecture turned into a palace. The lake makes it so much better... peaceful. I loved it! I can see how people would want to have their wedding ceremony or any kind of special event pictures taken here. It is definitely a piece of art worth seeing. Besides, it's on its way to the Golden Gate Bridge. You can't bypass it without stopping by!!

The place is pretty making its pictures perfect, particularly in the middle of it among the palace's artistic structure. It is free of charge and it is close to the Golden Gate.

While not authentic, when visiting these 'ancient ruins', you'll indeed feel like you've travelled across the world and are walking through the remains of some ancient civilisation. They are stunning and give you a definite ancient vibe.

A popular place for wedding photos throughout the day and early evening. Lit up at night it’s stunning. Benches handily placed for watching the sunset. Close to the marina it’s a pleasant area to visit as the sun goes down

Although it is not something a must to do if you are in SF but it does give you a highlight of some nice Architecture and also from the exit point you can just walk on the back side for some excellent photo opportunities of Golden Gate Bridge

Beautiful place!!!!!! Very recommended, the lake and the view is really nice. It’s a great place to see the time pass by and relax by the lake. There were pretty clean public bathrooms. If I had the money I would definitely live in front of the park and the palace.

A beautiful place and a nice little park. Picture taking of the outside of building. Wont spend more than an hour here, unless u are picnicking.

It was a serene afternoon and I enjoyed being at the amazing place. The architecture as well as the surroundings are beautiful. The Golden Gate Bridge is nearby, also the Walt Disney Museum. You can take a free shuttle from the Golden Gate Bridge to the Fine Arts Palace. Loved the place.

Imposing, in every respect.
The place is photogenic by itself, but does not enter a photo the magnificence of this construction.
It is the place for photos of quinceañeras, grooms, glamorous advertisements, looks like something out of a fairy tale
detail: admission is free

Would be one of my highlights on my stop over. Was recommended by a local and it’s beautiful. Free and a must see.

Discover or re-visit this magnificent piece of San Francisco nostalgia. This romantic environment will feel your soul and will transport your spirit to an era that will never comeback. Within easy acces in the Marina District on the way to the colossal Golden Bridge.

The Palace of Fine Arts is a monument constructed in 1915 for “Panama- Pacific Exposition” as work of art. It is unique combination of Greek & Roman art .
The campus is worth visiting & the views of Palace from adjacent pond are simply amazing .
The exhibition hall / visitor centre in the campus is currently used for marriage or, such functions .
Don’t forget to enjoy the views of Palace Rotunda & other wall arts …,,by sitting in the open lawns close to pond along with San Francisco pleasant climate.

This was a hidden gem on my trip to San Francisco. The photos really don’t do this place justice: It’s absolutely gorgeous. I definitely understand why people hold their weddings and other events here. It’s a great place for photos and a nice walk in the afternoon. Would recommend!

Great place to take a nice stroll and walk around the gardens. The garden is filled with elegant and beautiful architecture. Nice little garden in the city. But most importantly, it costs nothing to go explore and admire the garden. You do have to pay for parking, a common thing in San Fransisco. Over all, nice place to take a few pictures and enjoy nature.

This is such a beautiful place to walk around and take photos. Many people were getting wedding and graduation photos taken while I was there. The architecture, plants and wildlife are wonderful. Great place for a stroll or just to sit on the grassy side and read or people watch.

My wife and I had seen this place in a movie many years ago and decided to visit. Entrance to the external area is free.

The Palace of Fine Arts and adjoining park is magnificent. Pictures do not do it justice. To stand among the columns and gaze in wonder makes you feel small. The grandeur makes you think of days gone by when it was part of the exposition. Slow down and make sure to enjoy this spot.

Be aware of car theft, every attraction in SF is a magnet for thefts. Our car window has been smashed in the middle of the day while we parked for only 10 min. Check the sign of smashed window on the side walks everywhere in SF. On top of it, our rental car agent didn't worn us, too busy to convince us to take a toll pass. Viorika, Montreal, Canada

The Palace of fine Arts is a must see in San francisco But Be Warned DO NOT LEAVE ANYTHING VALUABLE IN your Vehicle like Pass port suit case back packs Luggage Because this Area parking lot is high break ins Do not just stop there on your way to airport with Luggage in back of car follow these guidelines and you will have a very nice day and don't for get to take photo of Golden Bridge from the back parking lot hopefully it's not to foggy enjoy

The palace of fine arts theater is very famous. You can see the building far away because it is majestic. When walking around it you can feel how wonderful it is. It is also a scene in movie "The Rock". I'm very happy to visit a great movie scene.

This is definitely worth a visit. It's beautiful in pictures, but stunning in reality. We easily found street parking. I had looked up into about parking and was warned about break-ins, so don't leave valuables in your car -- that said, ours was not broken into. GPS said it was closed when we went in the evening, but it's accessible at any time. There are lots of beautiful angles for photos.
From there you can walk to the Wave Organ.

This is a beautiful spot to visit while you’re in San Francisco. The area hosts weddings and photo shoots, and it’s an easy, flat walk around the serene pond. It’s a lovely place for a picnic and to take in the stunning architecture. Best of all, it’s free to walk around and enjoy the scenery.

I was drawn to the architecture of the buildings and made my husband drive all the way out here to spend a few minutes walking around to take pictures.

Definitely worth visiting as these were the prettiest photos on my trip in San Francisco.

A really relaxing place. Feels like you are in greece or somewhere European! The redwoods are pretty amazing as well. No entrance fee. Parking has a minimal amount to pay. See images and videos for further information.

Me and my partner were celebrating our 20 years together in San Francisco June 2024 and before we came to S.F this place was recommended to me to visit. It is free to walk around outside and it’s really stunning architecture and was also really peaceful whilst we were there. We got some nice photos and it was nice to sit next to the lake which even contained some turtles. A lovely place to visit.

This was very different and beautiful place right in the mid of the city.. The tomb in the middle of water body was truly magnificent and the greenery around was amazing.. Got some of the best pics of of US trip from this place.. No doubt there were several photography sessions going on specially for the new bride... Do visit this place while you;re in San Francisco..

The Palace of Fine Arts would be in my priority list when in San Francisco. I could spend the whole day here having a picnic apart from enjoying the historical part.

We were fortunate enough to have a chance to see Aaron Mahnke and Chad Lawson (piano) perform work from his Lore podcast last night at the Palace of Fine Arts Theatre. Just walking up to the venue, from any direction, will leave you in awe. The Beaux-Arts architecture brings you back to the period that encapsulated the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition era, and the surrounding gardens soothe the soul. In 1970, what used to be the Exhibit Hall became what is now the theatre. Upon entering the building, you will find a main room/foyer that serves as a home for the small snack/drink and reception area, as well as the restroom facilities. Inside the theatre itself, the seating is divided by even and odd numbers; even being on the right hand side while odd numbers reside on the left. Being in the front row, the only thing we did not account for were the smaller, monitor-type speakers, mounted to the front top-side of the stage. Note: This may pose a problem for shorter individuals attending a seated show. Throughout the event that we saw last night, the guest speaker, Aaron Mahnke, stood in the middle to front area of the stage for the duration of the presentation so the speakers did not cause an obstruction of view. Although the inside of the venue is on the larger side (966 seats), it still seems rather intimate. The seats are comfortably spaced, and recline slightly, so it was a perfect environment to listen to some spooky stories from an excellent narrator/author! Plus, the piano accompaniment provided by Chad Lawson was second to none! Thank you again to both Aaron and Chad for an entertaining break from the norm. Needless to say, we will definitely keep an eye out for more reasons to come back into San Francisco for future visits to this Bay Area gem!

Amazing architecture and history. A relaxing stroll through the property with many wonderful sights to see.

What a splendid building boasting the architecture inspired by Roman and ancient Greek design.
We wandered on the pathways around the lagoon at sunset, in awe of the majesty of the site. All of it. The towering columns and magnificent dome are something not to be missed.
Couldn’t help but think about the building of such a structure with today’s money! Impossible!
After the wander we went to the Russian Ballet Theatres performance of Swan Lake which was authentic and true to the original and well worth seeing. To my mind though a full live orchestra would have made the moment complete.
As for the theatre in which was held, so dull in comparison to the fabulous architecture outside!

I hoofed it here from my hotel in SoMa, having really no idea what this place was and to be quite honest after doing a bunch of research I still don't really know ahahaha.

I know it was built for the world fair in 1915 to exhibit works of art, but that being the only purpose had me skeptical. Like there is no real purpose or meaning to this thing and people talk about it like it's the Statue of Liberty or somethin. I don't know, I guess I like to be fake deep sometimes.

I came locked and loaded, fully ready to hate on it but immediately understood when I arrived. The Palace appears out of nowhere and blindsides you with its beauty. The only comparison I can make is when you see one of those people in real life that has an ineffable natural beauty and aura and you get those little unexplainable butterflies flying around in your stomach. You can't help but appreciate it, you can't help but smile.

I took my airpods out and snapped the case closed, pausing my Lofi-Sunday playlist as I just wanted to be fully present in the moment. Take in the energy, breathe in the air. As sad as it is to say, this is how I know I have a deep reverence for a place ahahaha.

My boy, Bernard Maybeck SNAPPED on this, as he was trying to evoke a decaying ruin of ancient Rome and he captured that exact feeling. Architects need to get more shine. How do you even do that?!?! Especially in 1915 with no internet and likely limited resources. Bernard has all my respect ahaha.

I've said it before, and I'll likely say it again: Talent hits a target no one else can hit, genius hits a target no one else can see.

WE SEE YOU BERNARD!

IG @jnov_
Tiktok @jnov__

Neat place to explore and take pictures. This would be a nice place for a picnic. We were probably only here for about 45 minutes total but worth it.

This is a good place to take a walk , if you are a traveller, u can come, but if you live in SF, the traffic is often bad near by.

We've been on guided bus tour and made a short stop at this place. It was totally different what I expected, not a gallery or theatre in general meaning of these worlds. It was like big monument with lake and lots of trees. Our guide told us to look at the statues at the top and then we realized that all are turned with the back to outside world. How odd but also interesting.

The Palace Of Fine Arts looks like it belongs on a different continent with the grandiose detailed columns and dramatic design. It is fun to walk through and just absorb the beauty. You will almost always see a wedding party inside taking photos no matter what day of the week you visit. Highly recommend!

The theater is beautiful and all seats can view the stage clearly, even if you're sitting on the extreme side seats. The sound system and acoustics are also clear and sharp. We were there for a show on August 29th, "The Butterfly Lovers" and had to watch this 2-1/2 show in uncomfortably hot and stuffy temperatures. We even complain to the ushers during intermission and even he acknowledged that the theater is too hot and that the staff is aware of it but unfortunately, nothing was done to remedy the problem and the second half remained hot and stuffy. What a shame as the theater is really a nice venue for stage performances...

The Palace of Fine Arts Theatre is a beautiful structure that would be peaceful if there weren't so many tourists crowding you trying to get photos. Instead, you're left with a thought of what could be. The facility itself appears to be abandoned, leaving only the exterior architecture to appreciate, which again, will be filled with tourists. Still, it's in a location that requires your attention, so you should at least stop for a few minutes and join the tourists for a photo.

Often times large public parks/structures like this can be overhyped in tourist cities, but this legacy building from the 1915 Panama-Pacific exhibition is exceptionally impressive. It’s beautiful to walk through and amazing to photograph from any angle, especially when you have nice weather. We were lucky enough to see a band perform in the center for a few minutes, but make sure you take the time to walk around the whole grounds and look at all the details. As with most tourist areas in San Fransisco - DO NOT LEAVE ANYTHING IN YOUR CAR AT ALL.

I try to get down to the Marina when I visit San Francisco. The Palace still looks as great as it must have when it was opened, so long ago.

I've been to many events at the theater, including a performance of The Nutcracker.

This trip, everything was in spring bloom, which made the views extra pretty! Always enjoy coming here.

Go at night time, the view is incredible. However, the day time takes better pictures. If you have some free time, it is a good place to visit and take some pictures. A lot SF tours will be passing by this place, so you wont miss this location if you cant really walk around it.

Nice place on the way to the golden gate. We found many people relaxing in the adjacent park. The visit took us half an hour at most.

We stopped here for a bit on our bike ride around some of San Francisco's sights. It's a beautiful (and huge!) structure. We enjoyed the signs that gave us some background on the building. There is a bike rack to lock your bikes at, which is wonderful. The swans were a highlight.

Visited on the third day in San Francisco and almost skipped it. That would have been a mistake. Great quality of stay and photo opportunities. This review refers only to the building and the park from the outside.

I enjoyed exploring this attraction. It was a very grand structure that was visually very impressive. You should definitely visit if you're in San Francisco!

The day I went, my friend was getting married and the photographer decided we would do the wedding portraits here. The weather was a mild 50s (coming from 20s in Salt Lake, 50s was warm), and the sun was out. It was a great day for pictures albeit a bit too bright probably for the photographer's liking. There were other groups with a similar idea. One quinceanerea, and I think another wedding group. Groups of pigeons in low flight provided a perfect backdrop for one of the pictures. There are some areas that were muddy, probably due to recent rains, but most of the area under the pavilions were dry. The architecture is really majestic and also a perfect backdrop. In the theatre area, there is a small coffee shop to warm up visitors and there are clean public restrooms towards the back. Über is very easy to get here - there is a waiting area for Uber and Lyft along Palace Drive across from Lyon street (?). It is a surprisingly small venue though. I was meeting the wedding party here since I drove in separately and thought I would have a hard time finding them, but really the place is just a big circle. There were public performers, one guy playing handpans which provided a very meditative feel. I can definitely see people just hanging out here to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Truly a gem worth visiting.

What an amazing building, the architecture is truly amazing. This is worth a stop if you are in the San Francisco Area.
There are plenty of benches and walk ways, it's a busy place and there is metered parking along the road.
Great for photographers and weddings.

We walked around with our toddler and it was gorgeous! The structure is beautiful and the park around it is super cute. Definitely worth the walk!

We visited here 30 years ago when we got engaged in SF and so glad we chose to stop here again with our kids in their mid-20's. The architecture, water features and more are just breath-taking and make for amazing photos!! It was nice to see an area of SF that felt relatively safe and was clean - sadly unlike so much of the SF area anymore. Parking can be challenging, but if you are patient, you will find one and it is so worth spending up to an hour here - especially if you luck out with beautiful weather like we did.

We plan on taking our wedding photos at this location and it’s absolutely stunning! The area itself is not big at all which makes it great for photos, not so much walking.

What a charming place! While there were a lot of people, the place is big, so me and my bf had some quiet moments away from everything. The architecture is gorgeous and we saw turtles and fish in addition to the famous swans. The place must be gorgeous at sunset.

The architecture of the Palace of Fine Arts is just unbelievable. It does worth going for a beautiful picture in the gardens. We didn’t have time to visit it inside, but the local Hop on Hop off buses stop there to allow you visit it. Imagine my surprise when I spotted the same picture in my laptop’s lock screen at Windows 10!! It felt so nice telling myself “oh! I have been there!!”.

Very good place if you want to click some beautiful pictures. I love it. Great architecture if you find it interesting.

Located only a stones throw from the San Francisco bay coastline, this wonderful building is so beautiful to see and surreal in another sense as it seems so out of place. It looks like it should be in an Italian city rather than San Francisco. The shear size is quite amazing. Well worth a visit.

I stopped here both during the day and night, and both are worth doing. The structure is impressive and well-kept which makes for lots of great photo opportunities. Best of all, it's free to visit. Parking might be hard during the day, but empty at night.

Beautiful palace that house the fine art theater in San Francisco. The architecture and the surrounding ponds makes for a nice view. I would not call this a must see but well worth it if you are in the area.

I was able to see this during sunset and it was a gorgeous view. The area is also really nice for a stroll. This was my first time to San Francisco, so would recommend if only in time for a short while.

I make a point of riding my bike to here when I am visiting the City. You have to park it and walk through but it is magical place in the middle of the City that makes you feel like you might be in Italy for a little bit.

Must visit place in San Francisco..Beautiful Old palace surrounded by Large water body and facing some extraordinary architectural houses..Very scenic and Photo clicking area

To think that this monument could have been demolished, would have been a travesty. The Palace of Fine Theatre is located away from the city centre near the San Francisco Yacht Club and Marina area of the city.
A picturesque area to walk around, which is surrounded by water and some impressive houses. It's free to enter and is illuminated at night.

Nice place for photographic .
BUT!
there are lot of car window was smashed
be carful for your belonging
cover bag with your clothes
OR
leave one of the family members inside the car

Absolutely beautiful a must ! W e took our kids here and walked around looking at the gorgeous architecture and landscape

This is a beautiful combination of architecture and nature. Lovely and peaceful to walk around, however many other visitors there might be.

Nice place with fantastic wievs. But.. what is it fir reell ? Nithing actuelly - just som peaces if buildings inspired from old roman or greek tempels ? But fore shore - an peaceful and Pretty place. AND with lot of turtles in The water 👍

Great picture spot in San Francisco. Absolutely breathtaking. Don't miss this superb spot if you are seeking a romantic walk or a solo it's a gem.

This massive building feels a little out of place in San Francisco. Has nice gardens and lake and lots of areas for photos.

Doesn’t feel like any of original history still here.

Large empty hall with a little take away unit in it.

Think might have a purpose for wedding photos or the likes.

I was bit disappointed as all reproduction.

Venue is good. but very dangerous place outside premises. especially if you are a tourist. my wife my kids and my mom in laws car was broken into. and they lost their passports and cash money.
Hassle fixing the papers travel documents. Took them a full day to have everything processed or else they are going stay extra days in the USA just to fix their papers.

After Crissy Field to take in the view of the Golden Gate Bridge, this was a nice stop to relax. It has a beautiful garden and grounds. Not crowded and very peaceful to read a book or just sit down and while away some time.

The minute I came around the corner and saw this building, I was simply stunned. This building is a permanent structure that was built to replace a temporary structure built for an Expo celebrating the completion of the Panama Canal (or so I was told). This building feel like it would be more at home in Italy than here in the US. It is massive with impressively detailed decorations all over. It is a popular spot for artists and the little lake/pond makes it a tranquil and beautiful spot.

We came past here at night and were blown away by the beauty of the lights and architecture in combination, of a type that is rarely seen on such a scale, especially outside Europe.

The Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco is captivating. And right in the bustling city. The walk through the grounds is visually stunning and alive with the presence of various critters.

Originally built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition, the structure was meant to be temporary, yet its beauty and cultural significance have ensured its preservation. The architecture is inspired by Roman and Greek styles in 20th-century design and dedicated to the arts.

Absolutely beautiful and a must do.

drop your group off and head to nearby neighborhood to find parking . If you find one, you win. A lot of picture opportunties

We spent some time walking through the palace garden admiring the beautiful craftsmanship.
Had a picnic with a bottle of Rose.
Very enjoyable!!

The place is unique and awesome for its Roman architecture. A nice place to take a rest, have a walk and just relax. Locals take there wedding, graduation photos or walk their dogs. One of the iconic place in the city.

Beautiful place, but don't take your car there. Ours got window smashed and 2 backpacks with stuff stole. We were there just for 30 minutes!

Please take a cab and visit the place

Very beautiful! Merely just walked around the outside but it was very nice and relaxing! Would definitely recommend having a picnic here if you want to stay longer or bringing a book!

What a beauty! It was built for the Panama Pacific exposition, it is a promenade with a tall rotunda and colonnades by a lake. Very pretty! A sight to see, it was saved by local efforts and it is a must to see if you like history and architecture. Also beautiful gardens in its surroundings. Free!

Absolutely gorgeous architecture. The gardens were stunning. Saw lots of photography shoots going on around the entire area. It was so beautiful.

A stunning location that you can explore and chill out with the family. Easy to walk around and great photo opportunities.

Looks great in the pictures, but way more massive in real life! It's worth a ride around, especially at night. We went in the day and were still really impressed!

This structure is left over from an International Expo that was held in the early 20th Century meant to show how the city had recovered from the earthquake. It has its classic features and part of it has been turned into a very big theater where special events are held.

Absolutely visit here when in San Fran. The architecture is stunning and the surrounding gardens are wonderfully maintained. You won’t spend hours here, but you won’t regret giving over the time you do...it’s a little piece of tranquility in an otherwise buzzing city.

You can take great pictures here any time of day or night, but the night time pictures are just breathtaking. This is one beautiful building and a must see!

This breathtakingly gorgeous theatre only goes to show that art isn't just limited to a typical art museum - you can find beauty anywhere! It's an open-air theatre with beautiful architecture and places to sit and reflect. It was busy when we were here, but it didn't get noisy or crowded, as there was plenty of space.

We visited SF via a group and they took us here. It's very close to golden gate bridge so you can visit if you have time and it's free of cost. It's nothing spectacular but a nice ancient structure if you are looking for something of that sort. There's a nice little lake here as well.

That's a beautiful place to take pictures, relax... it's near from the Golden Gate, so it's very easy to go. I went once during the summer and last time was in November... in my opinion, in summer is beautiful!

A nice place to spend a morning or afternoon strolling the grounds. One of the many free activities to do in San Francisco. Best part, there's no entrance fee to walk around the compound.

A favorite stop when visiting- it is absolutely gorgeous here! Just a tranquil setting in a beautiful neighborhood of stunning homes that are beautifully landscaped! The Palace brings a touch of European charm...bring your camera both day and night!

Worth a visit. It is quite beautiful
I went to Italy last year and this compared to many of the monuments in Rome! Take a picnic on a nice day and make a day of it!

The Palace of fine art is a must see if you like nice gardens and odd architecture. My wife and i walk from our Hotel to the park which is around 9 mile around trip. You can hire bike if you don’t fancy the walk.

Gorgeous walk and architecture. Easy access and free. Close to Golden Gate Bridge and the Presidio.
And visit the gorgeous George Lucas ILM grounds across the street for more serenity.

The Palace of Fine Arts is the only remaining structure from the Panama Pacific International Exposition of 1915. Our guide told us that it wasn't actually used for much other that the occasional exhibition and a tourist attraction.
It is a beautiful building intentionally designed to look like a Greek (or Roman) ruin.

Most beautiful building, surrounded by a pond. Take in this phenomenal site, enjoy every moment. There are also pillars that looks like ruins, it makes a fabulous photo opportunity.

Get there in one of the electric scooters or rental bikes and spend a good hour taking pictures ands strolling in this gorgeous location.

The Palace of Fine Arts Theater has a unique architecture with its surrounding lagoon made its beauty a perfect for photos .

This is a good place to visit and free to enjoy the outside garden and have fun...I would recommend to go there for a sunset or just relaxing sitting or laying on the grass, that's such an adorable place to be around and if you are willing to walk from there to Fisherman Warf it's not that bad at all.

The outside facility is free of charge.

Great story about the neighborhood folks funding the restoration of this facility.

Perhaps somewhat self fulfilling to maintain home values.

Very nice.

We had never heard of this place, but came across it when we took a Lyft up the shore to see the sunset by the Golden Gate Bridge. Really a neat place to see on a nice day. We only got to see the outside, but it was quaint. Fun picture taking.

Can’t believe this was meant to be a temporary structure for World’s Fair about 100 years ago. Really pretty structure and nice for photos

The Palace of Fine Arts is a beautiful site to take in breathtaking architecture and impressive landscaping. Walking around the site is free. Tours are also available for a reasonable price. There are plenty of other tourists and photographers walking around, but everyone seemed very respectful.

The palace was built in 1915 for the Panama Pacific Exposition then completely rebuilt from 1964-1974. I was impressed most by the rotunda. The site is very convenient near the marinas along the bay.

If you’re in the area, stop by and spend a half hour or an hour taking in the beauty. It’s a great spot for some photos of an iconic San Francisco site!

We walked from the Wharf all the way to the Palace of Fine Arts. It was quite a trek but got to see some more of the city you would not usually head to. The Palace itself with its pillars and decorative features is well worth a visit. Couldn’t help wondering, how many of these visitors had taken up this artistic interest as a result of watching 'The Rock'. There was no access into the Museum itself as it was hosting a conference. Don't know if they had any coffee shop inside, but there were certainly none around outside. Pretty posh area to live in so expect the locals don’t want a Starbucks attracting tourists.

I wasn’t sure whether to venture off the bike path to check out this palace, but I was glad we did. The architecture is amazing, and the grounds are remarkable. You’ll want photos of this place for sure.

This seems to be the place for wedding photos ! We saw at least 3-4 brides to be getting pictures taken. These Graeco-roman structures were built in 1915 for the Panama-Pacific exhibition. The gardens are lovely and concrete are held here during the summer.

Cool place to see if in the area. Pack with lots of tourist. Water pond in the middle with vary pretty architecture. Photo op of a city that is a jewel eating to be discovered and in joyed.

Well we were walking around SF and then saw this big structure. We decided to get closer and we walked into just an absolutely gorgeous little oasis! There were swans, people taking formal pics, and lots of cute little families spending time together

Cons) the signage or plagues are not really helpful in conveying the significance of this place

Pros) lots of shade!

Pro tip) pack a full water bottle as there are not many places to buy water or fill up a bottle

hi so we went there with out a previous reservation even though we tried to contact but network was down but we had a fair stay over there

It looks if you step into an Ancient Greek/Roman site, but the massive construction is what’s left of the Panama-Pacific International Exposition of 1915 celebrating the completion of the Panama Canal. It’s impressive to walk through the site and as it seems to attract all new and old lovers having their “special day” picture been taken for eternity.

This place is beautiful. The lake with the ducks is so serence and relaxing, you can just sit somewhere and kill time while watching the ducks. You can walk your furry pets around here, be sure to pick up after them. You can also have photo shoots especially pre-nups since the structures are so nice here. My niece had her civil wedding here as well.

We recently viewed the Palace for the first time. Very interesting architecture. The weeping women particularly. It was a Sunday so it was crowded but we were able to find parking on the street in front. We were disappointed the building was not open as it stated on the web page. A must see in San Francisco

If one monument should not be forgotten to visit in San Francisco it is the Fine Art Palace.
Located at the west end of Lombard Street a few minutes from the various motels on Lombard St, this monument offers an ideal setting for picnicking or strolling around its water bridge.
What's more, you will find a filming location for some super Hollywood productions there.

The Palace of the Fine Arts in the Marina district of San Francisco is an iconic site visible from many parts of the bay area. If you find yourself in the city and you have some time to wander, it is well worth your time to visit this beautiful location. I recommend reading a little bit about the structure’s history before you go. There’s a nice pond and a grassy area which would be perfect for a picnic lunch. Or you could just stop by on your way to somewhere else as my husband and I did, and wander through this lovely location.

My husband and I visited the Palace of the Fine Arts Theatre during our short trip to San Francisco. We had a hard time finding parking, so we had to walk about 10 minutes or so from a spot we found around the block. The architecture is absolutely beautiful and the grounds were so peaceful. There were a lot of people relaxing in the grass and sitting on the benches, listening to the water and watching the birds. It's definitely worth a stop if you're in the area!

This is a must see in SF but I can't give it 5 stars. It's awesome that the preserved it and the grounds are beautiful. You can walk it all and read up on all of the history in just 30 minutes. Also, I was able to park in front on the street which was nice. I did get a little lucky though.

I was surprised how much I enjoyed walking round the outside of the theatre. It was quiet and serene with pretty gardens and nice architecture. It felt a lot less pastiche than I expected and it’s much bigger than I realised.

Beautiful tranquil area. Very close to the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s a perfect spot for photography. It’s also just steps away from the Presidio where there are many paths through the forest.

Beautiful grounds & waterfront. Architecture is beautiful & the surrounding park is serene. Take some time to leisurely stroll around the area to take in the sights. There is a small concession area inside the adjacent building with restrooms and some games (cornhole, ping pong, life sized connect 4).

We saw Madeleine Peyroux who was opened up by Fantastic Negreto. I loved the venue, great acoustics. Wider and less deep than many, maybe look for a seat closer to the middle.

If you're looking for beautiful architecture this is one of many places to find it. Very serene and peaceful. Gorgeous photo opportunities abound!

This place is so quiet. You can watch the swans/ducks/turtles frolic in the lake, or just sit and read. We went on a Saturday afternoon, and there was a naked bike ride happening. I don't know what that was about, but I guess it comes with being in San Francisco long enough lol. It's busier during the day, but still fairly quiet. It looks like Roman ruins, which unique to see in SF. Park in the parking lot behind the building, because finding street parking is a nightmare.

Look, it's a beautiful building, and that's it. If you want to go take pictures, this is a nice place to do it. Apart from that, there's noting of interest here. When I went, at least, the inside was pretty much warded off. There were these cylindrical viewing spots where you could look into and see the history of this building. Worth it? Not to me.

Visited this first thing in the morning before heading over to Napa -- it was absolutely worth the stop! So much history and detail as well as an insight into how things were/looked at the time of the world fair!

Built in 1915 is neoclassical rotunda overlooking a graceful lagoon.Home to theater and dance.

A truly magnificent building.

All the time I have been in SF, this is the 1st time I have visited the Palace.

Take your time walking around the lagoon and take as many viewpoints. As it turned out, my favorite was the final shot that I took. Lucky for all of us that this structure survived thru the years (see attached photo).

I located the film spot where The Rock was filmed at.

The Palace of Fine Arts itself is picturesque and worth a stop. However, do not drive here. Our rental car windows were smashed and property stolen in the parking lot and we were gone no more than 20 min. 3 other cars close by were hit according to the police. Take an Uber or public transportation.

Beautiful. Just a nice peaceful place to walk around! Lots of people taking photos. Saw some birds around. Nice scenery!

A beautiful small monument, garden and lake, that transports you to a fantastical Ancient Greece/Italy. A great place to stop by for some beautiful photos. It is slightly out of the way so recommend getting a taxi.

The Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco is one of those places that feels timeless — a mix of classical elegance and local charm. Originally built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition, its towering rotunda, sweeping colonnades, and reflective lagoon make it a favorite for photographers, couples, and anyone craving a peaceful walk. Inside, the venue hosts everything from concerts to cultural events, while the surrounding park offers space to relax, picnic, or just admire the architecture. Whether you’re catching a show or strolling through the Marina, it’s a spot that blends history, beauty, and community in one unforgettable setting.

This is one of the best venues in San Francisco -- not a bad seat in the house, plus a nice drink/food bar to enjoy ahead of the show, and the room itself is gorgeous. Lots of leg room (you do NOT have to stand up to allow people to walk in front of you), and great acoustics. The neighborhood and the scenery outside is also gorgeous, so show up early just to take a stroll and get some photos, it's worth it! It's San Francisco though, so bring a sweater (no matter the time of year). There's a pay lot you can use for parking ($9 for all day), or you can try and arrive early enough to score nearby street parking. Either works. Highly recommended!

Expensive visit. Smash and grab vandals. Do not park there. Take an uber. Leave NOTHING of value in your vehicle if you choose to park at the Palace of Fine Arts

Who doesn't love strolling around a park with great historical structures, a small lagoon & greenery all around?! An added bonus of ducks and other birds makes it even more enjoyable for the kids. From the name itself, it also boasts of a rich history of art exhibitions in the past. We saw several couples doing photoshoots in the area. It's no wonder, the Palace is definitely IG-worthy!

I had so much fun just relaxing and walking around this area. The architecture and setting of this facility is beautiful. I can see why the spot would be popular for weddings. If I lived nearby, I think I would just stop by this park every day to sit and enjoy life. Worth a stop after Golden Gate or before heading to the Presidio area.

It's fun to imagine strolling through this palace back in 1915, when it was built for the world exposition. The grounds are just beautiful! Plus, it's an easy walk to the bay and marina. Totally accessible for wheelchair.

Beautiful place. Worth the trip, plus get to do many other activities within the same complex and area. If you are into architecture this is definitely a must.

I did not know about this place, my hotel was in the area and we were having an evening stroll and came across it and its the place for your IG or family shots While we were there in the twilight, there was a group taking wedding photos and another group all dressed u in their finery taking family shots.

Evening is a good time because its less crowded, I can imagine taking photos would be trickier in the daytime because of more people. Its just beautiful. Its a lovely place to wander and take in the architecture and sit and contemplate (and take photos!)

I could spend hours here in awe of the beauty of this structure! Originally built in 1915 the people of the city have made multiple efforts to save this unique piece of history, and we are so blessed to be able to experience it today! Make SURE you take at least a few minutes to stop by and walk through this wonder when you visit San Fran! Wow! What a beauty.

Very clean and well organized staff. The seating is really comfy and roomy so your not packed in like sardines. The span of view of the stage is great from wherever you are seated.

A nice setting for a daytime stroll, with wonderfully designed gardens and dominant buildings. But nothing to visit inside whilst we were there (doesn't mean there isn't at all!). Well worth a stop if in a car and going to the GGB.

Beautiful places to see, very nice monuments and gardens. Go to the beach next door for the view of the Golden Gate Bridge..

Great place and great park. On top of that it is a famous place because of the movie with -Sean Conery - the Rock :)

Went to see Al DiMeola. The playing was, as you'd expect, remarkable. However, the sound was rather muddy. Not sure whether it was in the mix or in the building, but there you go. Also, the only way to carry the very expensive wine into the theater is to buy, as they call it, the "adult sappy cup." Also, the wine is pretty bad.

It's a great place to come visit and for a stroll during sunny days. What most people don't know is that the night time here is magical also, when the lights are shining on the palace. Wonderful scene.

Had a very peaceful and beautiful visit to this place! Loved the vibes. Visited just after the Sunset and loved the Lights and the contrast :)

The images from all angles were delightful. Free street parking. You can spend 30 minutes there, or spend an entire afternoon. Lots of details to soak in as you walk about the grounds and palace.

It's pretty amazing that this structure was built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific exhibition. It is majestic and beautiful. It gave me a sense of peace walking around the grounds. I would like to have spent more time just sitting by the lake watching the swans or reading.

It's really beautiful at night. They illuminate it nicely. I would recommend timing it as you walk back from the Presidio to the city -- otherwise it is a little bit out of the way. I wouldn't recommend in the day time... dusk is best!

The Greek-Roman design is stunning to look at. It has numerous tall pillars and a beautiful large stone dome. It has countless decorations and the ponds are superb. And it also has countless wildlife.

We have not had the benefit of enjoying any performances at the theatre but we still like to visit. The exterior architecture and surrounding park are beautiful and relaxing. It’s a great place to walk and enjoy the neighboring homes. It’s proximity to the bay is also a bonus that adds to the atmosphere.

A must see when in San Francisco. One can combine a visit to this palace and Golden Gate Bridge since both are close to each other.

Palace offers excellent architecture and glimpses of San Francisco’s history. Visit to palace is free of cost.

Very pretty, but there were no restrooms available. A lot of people taking wedding photos, couldnt reslly watch everything freely because of this.

Awesome backdrop.

Lovely little park.

Quiet and relaxing.

Free

Just my thing.

Lots of birds and turtles in the water. Flowers and huge trees all around the park.

This is so beautiful, must visit . Very nice architecture, scenic and admiring. The place is beautiful, nice flowers , birds, nature . I have teen and they also loved it

Visiting the Fine Arts Museum of San Francisco was not part of my itinerary but when we drove from the Battery East Parking lot this was the first place we saw and decided to drop by. The imposing structure is very beautiful and reminds me of European palaces and landmarks.

Beautiful scenery and idyllic setting. Lovely & quiet spot to escape the city. Walkable from the Fisherman's Wharf area, about 2-3 miles of flat ground along the shore.

This should be on everyones “Top Things to Do in San Francisco”. It transports you to a different era, and to a different country. It’s truly glorious!

Beautiful architectural building. Lovely gardens and green space. Learned about the history of the building. Very unique.

This place is awesome. What a beautiful place to visit and take in the sights. Walk the grounds and you see how beautiful it is. The ponds, columns simply a must to see. When we were there 4 weddings were going on.

The Palace of Fine Arts is a Magnificent example of Architectural perfection. The facility is well worth visiting. The beautiful grounds offer many very good photo opportunities and are a great location to go for a walk and relax. Built in the traditional style and carefully restored you will find the Palace of Fine Arts a perfect spot to enjoy and reflect.

I have always loved attending a concert at the Palace of Fine Arts theatre. And this time was no different. Great site lines and awesome sound. The catering service is excellent. Returning to see Bruce Hornsby next week. Love the refreshed exterior.

We took a lovely walk along the Promenade from Fort Point to The Palace to see this gem. The pathways and ponds through this outdoor structure make it unique for one to see. It is well done and impressive to walk through.

Imitation of Greco-Roman ruins that was the city's contribution to the Panama-Pacific International Exposition of 1915. It is worth seeing day and night. Access is free.

The Palace of fine art. Built in 1915, this palace is full of European art decor. You feel your are in Rome one one side and Paris on the other side. It is so beautiful that you may want to take your wedding pictures here in the same way as many others.

Perhaps less visited compared to the Golden Gate Bridge and Pier 39, the Palace of Fine Arts Theater is also worth-visiting. There you'll see a reconstruction of some structures built in 1915 on the occasion of the Panama-Pacific international exposition. They are neoclassical structures of Greek and Roman inspiration. There are also lovely gardens in the area. The whole place is very relaxing, but there's really nothing much to do here except taking pictures, watching birds and exploring the gardens.

The shear size of this building is overwhelming. It is like an ancient ruin left from some previous civilization. Take time to walk around the entire structure and read all the signs. It will take about an hour to see it from all sides.

Such a beautiful picturesque area to wander around. The swans on the lake increased the beautification even more and it was so nice and peaceful to wander slowly around.

It is a beautiful park like area and good place to rest if you've been walking all day. Not really any activities to do there, but it is very pretty on the eyes and kids will have a little room to run around to stretch out their legs.

What a surprise to find this in the middle of the city. We wandered, took pictures and enjoyed the beautiful day!

This place was conceived and constructed on a grand scale for the 1915 Panama Pacific Exhibition. The main structure had large columns supporting a soaring domed ceiling with carved murals, statues. It was surrounded by a nice lagoon, a grassy area for picnics, and walkways to wander. It made an excellent background for photographs.

Behind the palace was an empty building that used to house the Exploratorium museum as well as a large parking lot that was practically empty. Hopefully they find a good use for it to attract more visitors.

Stunning design and architecture. Breathtakingly beautiful. Well worth a stroll and a smile at the creative talent of the builders of this incredible creation.

We stopped here on our way to the Golden Gate Bridge. It so peaceful and serene; such a contrast to the noises of the city. The architecture is beautiful and it is great to take a slower stroll around the lake area.
Worth a visit!

Incredible architecture. Huge scale.

A must visit location. We have been here before and loved the area. ( we got takeaway from Swans Oyster depot and had it here by the pond) this visit it was raining. Still a lovely area to walk. Very beautiful.

This is definitely on your travel bucket list. I was very pleased that my friend stopped here in our tour. It’s the best photography back drop. Gorgeous place! The Rotunda, columns, the pond, etc. FREE!

If we were not in a hurry, I was imagining this... Sitting on the bench reading my favorite book, no talking, just solo, immerse the beauty, etc.

Strange place but nice to wander around on a sunny day. Small park in front of the building with landscaped garden and pond.

a beautiful place for a stroll...enjoying the reflexion on the water and or just chilling...a nice place to relax

My first time in SF and i'm by myself, but still this place can't be missed and must be on your travel list.. i enjoined from the view..this place are truly ART!

The grandeur of this place is spellbinding and breathtaking. Even though it is devoid of much activity within the premises, prepare to visit for at least an hour to take in its striking beauty. It is just a hop and a skip away from the Bay so it could be the perfect start of the day. Make sure to take plenty of good photos so you can relish the memories in due time.

This is a unique remnant from the 1915 Panama Pacific Expo. A fantastic building with beautiful scenery, lake, swans all around. It's little wonder that many brides, graduates and tourists favor this place for photo ops. But, after the exploratorium was moved, this became a theater for many productions. Go online, see what performances you may wish to see, and get your tickets. Enjoy!