SFMOMA, San Francisco - a tunnel that has a very colorful design on it
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SFMOMA

SFMOMA: A vast museum showcasing modern and contemporary art, from iconic paintings to immersive installations, within a striking architectural space.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

First Thursdays

Free admission!

CrowdHigh
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SFMOMA, San Francisco - a tunnel that has a very colorful design on it

SFMOMA

Best Time

First Thursdays

Free admission!

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

SFMOMA: A vast museum showcasing modern and contemporary art, from iconic paintings to immersive installations, within a striking architectural space.

4.6
(16k reviews)

"A must-see in San Francisco, offering a fascinating range of art and experiences that leave a lasting impression."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free First Thursdays

Enjoy free admission on the first Thursday of each month, but expect large crowds!

🎟️ Book Tickets Ahead

Skip the purchase line by booking your SFMOMA tickets online in advance.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Visitors

The Visitors

Floor 6

A profoundly moving 9-screen audio-visual installation about music and togetherness.

Reddit+1
Ruth Asawa: Retrospective

Ruth Asawa: Retrospective

Various Floors

Explore the intricate looped wire sculptures and impactful life of this Japanese-American artist.

Instagram
One-Way Color Tunnel

One-Way Color Tunnel

Floor 1

An immersive, dazzling walkway by Olafur Eliasson that plays with dynamic color and light.

Instagram
Kara Walker's Fortuna and the Immortality Garden

Kara Walker's Fortuna and the Immortality Garden

Floor 1

An interactive installation offering fortunes that prompt introspection on history and identity.

Instagram

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Save

First Thursdays offer free admission, but expect crowds! Booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended to skip lines, especially for popular exhibits like Yayoi Kusama's. Consider visiting on weekdays to avoid weekend rushes. TikTokReddit

Explore Beyond the Exhibits

SFMOMA's architecture and courtyards are an attraction in themselves. Take time to appreciate the building's design and find quiet nooks for sketching or reflection. The top floor often features avant-garde works and sound installations. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
First Thursdays
Why
Free admission!
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Quieter, good for reflection
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

did i mention first thursdays are FREE??!!! next free dates: 12/5, 12/8 (free family day) get your tickets ASAP @sfmoma https://www.sfmoma.org/free-days/?gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIq9jAsuKKigMVzD1ECB2LCzRpEAAYASABEgK05fD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds #sfmoma #bayarea #museums #arttok #sanfrancisco #sf #sfthingstodo #dateidea #sfpl #free #cheap #fyp
@localavo
31.8K likes • 216.4K views

🎯 Free First Thursdays

Enjoy free admission on the first Thursday of each month, but expect large crowds! TikTokReddit

🎟️ Book Tickets Ahead

Skip the purchase line by booking your SFMOMA tickets online in advance. Reddit

#RuthAsawa Ruth Asawa: Retrospective at SFMOMA @sfmoma @ruthasawaofficial I finally got the chance to share about Ruth Asawa—the Japanese-American artist best known for her “looped wire sculptures suspended in air.” In her early years, Asawa was unjustly interned in a Japanese American incarceration camp during WWII. She later attended the influential Black Mountain College, a cornerstone in ...
hipsterbaby_diary
0 likes • 3.5K views
Catch it. Sit with it. Reflect on it. Kara Walker’s (@kara_walker_official) “Fortuna and the Immortality Garden (Machine)” invites you to slow down and think. This interactive installation offers fortunes that spark introspection—each one a prompt to consider your place in history, identity, and the world around you. 🧾 On view now, Floor 1—free and open to all! #SFMOMA #KaraWalker #SanFrancisco
sfmoma
4.9K likes • 142.1K views

🚶‍♀️ Start at the Top

Take the elevator to the top floor and work your way down for a curated experience. Reddit

☕ Enjoy the Cafe

The matcha at the first-floor cafe is excellent, and the top-floor seating offers great views. Reddit

Sound on🔊 Céleste Boursier-Mougenot's installation 'Clinamen' uses floating bowls to create harmonious sounds 🔔 ⁠ ⁠ Video taken at the @sfmoma via @anothermagazine⁠ ⁠ Tap the link in bio to discover artist processes unveiled in Private View on NOWNESS👀⁠
nowness
18K likes • 343K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free First Thursdays

Enjoy free admission on the first Thursday of each month, but expect large crowds! TikTokReddit

🎟️ Book Tickets Ahead

Skip the purchase line by booking your SFMOMA tickets online in advance. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Start at the Top

Take the elevator to the top floor and work your way down for a curated experience. Reddit

☕ Enjoy the Cafe

The matcha at the first-floor cafe is excellent, and the top-floor seating offers great views. Reddit

✍️ Bring a Sketchbook

Ideal for lower-traffic days, use the courtyards and quiet nooks for creative inspiration. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(16k reviews)

Reviews Summary

SFMOMA is lauded for its stunning architecture, diverse modern and contemporary art collections, and engaging special exhibitions. Visitors appreciate the immersive experiences like 'The Visitors' and the free admission on First Thursdays. However, some find ticket prices for special exhibits steep, and the viewing times can feel limited.

"Free for youth 18 and under! Really nice place, beautiful interior and pretty nice works in there. I particularly liked the sculptures section and the little coffee shop. The museum store has some really cool things, different kinds of lighting, little boardgames, etc. Definitely go early! the line gets huge very quickly."

Renzo

"I absolutely loved my visit. It was both magical, profound, and full of simple wonders as well. I left with a new perspective on art and the humanness of it. There was a fascinating range of art and experiences, including famous works by Andy Warhol and the iconic LOVE installation by the dining area. Food was superb as well."

Alissa Kennedy

"A must museum to see in San Francisco. There's a lot of very famous works here that you should see if you're an art enthusiast but there's not so much that it's overwhelming you can do the whole museum, all 6 floors, in about a half a day. It's not huge, and there's a nice atrium cafe and outdoor seating on the top floor. I'm not sure it's worth a $30 admission but, it's worth it if you buy it as part of the 3 activity City Tours package."

Brian Mulligan

What People Like

Stunning architecture
Diverse art collections
Immersive installations

What People Dislike

High ticket prices for special exhibits
Limited viewing times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

SFMOMA is easily accessible via public transportation. Many Muni bus lines stop nearby, and it's a short walk from BART stations like Powell Street or Montgomery Street. Parking is available in the attached garage, and validation is offered at coat check. Reddit

Yes, there's a paid parking garage attached to the museum. You can also find paid street parking in the surrounding SoMa area. Consider public transport to avoid parking hassles. Reddit

Absolutely! SFMOMA is well-served by Muni buses and is within walking distance of BART stations, making it convenient to reach without a car. Reddit

From downtown San Francisco, you can walk to SFMOMA in about 15-20 minutes, or take a short Muni bus ride. It's also a quick BART ride to nearby stations. Reddit

While there aren't direct transportation discounts, consider purchasing a City Tours package that may include admission and transportation options. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission tickets are typically around $30, but prices can vary for special exhibitions like Yayoi Kusama's. Youth 18 and under are free. Reddit

Yes! SFMOMA offers free admission on the first Thursday of every month from 12 PM to 8 PM. TikTokReddit

You can purchase SFMOMA tickets online through their official website or in person at the museum. Booking online in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot and skip lines. Reddit

SFMOMA is generally open daily, with hours typically from 10 AM to 5 PM, and extended hours until 8 PM on Thursdays. Always check their website for the most current SFMOMA hours. Reddit

Tickets for popular exhibitions like Yayoi Kusama's can be very limited and sell out quickly. It's best to check the SFMOMA website for release dates and purchase them online as soon as they become available. In-person tickets may be available but require arriving very early. Reddit

🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience

Highlights include Ragnar Kjartansson's 'The Visitors' (Floor 6), the Ruth Asawa Retrospective, Olafur Eliasson's 'One-Way Color Tunnel' (Floor 1), and Kara Walker's 'Fortuna and the Immortality Garden' (Floor 1). The photography collection and special exhibitions are also highly recommended. InstagramReddit+3

You can see most of the museum in about 3-4 hours. However, to fully appreciate the exhibits and architecture, you could easily spend half a day or more. Reddit

Yes, SFMOMA offers a range of engaging exhibits that can appeal to families. Youth 18 and under receive free admission, making it an accessible outing. Reddit

SFMOMA features a vast collection of modern and contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, photography, media installations, and design. Instagram+1

Yes, SFMOMA has several interactive installations, such as Kara Walker's 'Fortuna and the Immortality Garden,' which invites visitor participation. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, SFMOMA has dining options. The cafe on the first floor offers excellent matcha, and there are other eateries within the museum, including a restaurant with outdoor seating on the top floor. Reddit

Reviews suggest the food at SFMOMA is surprisingly good, with specific mentions of excellent matcha and a pleasant dining experience. Reddit

While specific pricing isn't detailed, the cafe options are generally considered a good value for a museum setting. Reddit

Yes, there is outdoor seating available at the top-floor dining area, offering a pleasant spot to enjoy your meal with a view. Reddit

SFMOMA has a restaurant on the top floor, offering a dining experience with views. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed in SFMOMA for personal use, but flash photography and tripods are usually prohibited. Some special exhibitions may have restrictions, so always check signage. Instagram

The 'One-Way Color Tunnel' by Olafur Eliasson is a visually stunning spot. The museum's architecture, courtyards, and large-scale installations also offer great photo opportunities. Instagram

Yes, flash photography and tripods are typically not allowed to protect the artwork and ensure a good experience for all visitors. Instagram

The 'One-Way Color Tunnel' and the dynamic architecture of the building itself are highly Instagrammable. Instagram

Yes, you can use your phone camera for personal photos, as long as you avoid flash and respect any specific exhibit restrictions. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

SFMOMA is a great outing for families, especially since youth 18 and under get in free! Reddit While some contemporary art can be abstract, there are many engaging pieces, including interactive installations and visually stimulating exhibits like Olafur Eliasson's 'One-Way Color Tunnel.' Instagram The museum's spacious layout and courtyards offer room to move, and the cafe provides a good spot for a break. Consider focusing on floors with more accessible art or looking for specific family-friendly programming. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Take advantage of Free First Thursdays for complimentary admission! TikTokReddit Even on regular days, the museum offers a lot of value. Explore the free-access galleries on the main floor, and don't miss the architectural marvels and courtyards. Consider purchasing a City Tours package if you plan on visiting multiple attractions, as it might offer a discount. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

SFMOMA is a must-visit for its extensive collection of modern and contemporary art. Prioritize exhibits like the Ruth Asawa Retrospective and 'The Visitors' for deeply impactful experiences. InstagramReddit+1 Explore the photography galleries and keep an eye on their schedule for rotating special exhibitions that often feature world-renowned artists. Allow ample time to truly absorb the diverse artistic expressions. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating SFMOMA's Collection

SFMOMA boasts an impressive collection spanning modern and contemporary art across seven floors. Visitors often recommend starting on the top floor and working your way down, as this level frequently features the most current and avant-garde exhibitions. Reddit The museum's layout, while tall, is designed to guide you through diverse artistic expressions, from iconic paintings to thought-provoking installations. Reddit

Key collections include significant works by artists like Mark Rothko, Matisse, and Andy Warhol. Photography is another strong area, with rotating exhibitions that showcase diverse perspectives. Don't miss the chance to experience immersive installations like Ragnar Kjartansson's 'The Visitors,' a deeply emotional 9-screen audio-visual piece that has resonated with many visitors. Reddit+1

Beyond the permanent collections and special exhibitions, SFMOMA also highlights design and media arts. The building itself, with its striking architecture and numerous courtyards, is an integral part of the experience. Many visitors find joy in simply exploring the spaces and discovering hidden nooks for quiet contemplation. Reddit

Experiencing 'The Visitors'

Ragnar Kjartansson's 'The Visitors' is a standout experience at SFMOMA, often described as profoundly moving and emotionally resonant. This 9-screen audio-visual installation features a group of musicians performing a piece together, yet in separate rooms. The effect is a powerful exploration of togetherness, isolation, and the shared human experience, particularly poignant in the context of recent global events. Reddit+1

Visitors are encouraged to stay for the entire hour-long duration to fully immerse themselves in the piece. The repetitive yet evolving nature of the music and visuals creates a meditative atmosphere, allowing for deep introspection. Many have reported being brought to tears by its beauty and emotional depth. Reddit+1

'The Visitors' is included with general admission, making it an accessible highlight of any SFMOMA visit. Its extended run at the museum has allowed many to experience its unique power, with some visitors returning multiple times to revisit its emotional impact. Reddit+1

Planning for Special Exhibitions

SFMOMA frequently hosts highly anticipated special exhibitions, such as Yayoi Kusama's 'Infinite Love' and the 'Ruth Asawa: Retrospective.' These exhibitions often draw large crowds and require advance planning. Tickets for these popular shows can sell out quickly, so it's crucial to monitor the SFMOMA website for release dates and purchase them as soon as they become available. TikTokReddit

For exhibitions like Kusama's, which have had timed entry and limited viewing periods, arriving early for in-person ticket purchases might be an option, but online booking is generally the most reliable method. Some visitors have expressed that the viewing time for certain popular exhibits can feel short, so managing expectations is key. Reddit

Even if you miss out on a specific ticketed exhibition, SFMOMA always has a wealth of other compelling art to explore. The museum's permanent collection, including photography and modern masterpieces, along with free-access galleries, ensures a rich experience regardless of special exhibition access. Reddit

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