War Memorial Opera House, San Francisco - stock photography of Union Station
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War Memorial Opera House San Francisco

Historic Beaux-Arts venue hosting world-class San Francisco Opera and Ballet performances.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Live performances

CrowdHigh
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War Memorial Opera House, San Francisco - stock photography of Union Station

War Memorial Opera House San Francisco

Best Time

Evenings

Live performances

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic Beaux-Arts venue hosting world-class San Francisco Opera and Ballet performances.

4.8
(2k reviews)

"A beautiful institution of San Francisco, making art accessible to the people."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Dress Circle Seats

Often considered some of the best seats for ballet, offering great views of choreography.

💰 Standing Room Tickets

A budget-friendly option for opera and ballet, offering surprisingly good views and sound.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

San Francisco Ballet Performances

San Francisco Ballet Performances

War Memorial Opera House

Experience world-class ballet with stunning choreography and live orchestral performances.

Instagram+3
San Francisco Opera Productions

San Francisco Opera Productions

War Memorial Opera House

Immerse yourself in grand opera, from classic masterpieces to contemporary works, with exceptional vocalists.

Instagram+1
Architectural Grandeur

Architectural Grandeur

War Memorial Opera House

Admire the stunning Beaux-Arts architecture of this historic 1932 performing arts venue.

Reddit

Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

Popular performances at the War Memorial Opera House, especially for the San Francisco Ballet and Opera, sell out quickly. Booking ahead ensures you get your preferred seats and avoids disappointment. Consider season subscriptions for potential discounts and priority access. Instagram

Dress Code & Comfort

While there's no strict dress code, many patrons dress up for opening nights or galas. Business casual is a safe bet for most performances. For comfort, especially if you're tall, consider aisle seats in the Dress Circle or Orchestra for extra legroom. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Live performances
Crowd
High
When
Matinee performances
Why
Daytime shows
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @Trenton. I truly feel like you’re our friends #IRL! Where should we go on out next #FieldTrip? @Bill Barton, @Victoria Delaney and I are always up for adventures! #OperaHouse #SFOpera #SFBallet #WarMemorialOperaHouse #SanFrancisco #OperaTok #OperaTikTok #Ballet #BalletTok #BalletTikTok #SwanLake #BlackSwan
@deni_dela
8.4K likes • 148.4K views

🎯 Dress Circle Seats

Often considered some of the best seats for ballet, offering great views of choreography. Reddit+1

💰 Standing Room Tickets

A budget-friendly option for opera and ballet, offering surprisingly good views and sound. Reddit

Special delivery! The @sfopera sent this gift to introduce the lineup for the 2024-2025 season! Some highlights I look forward to include Beethoven 9, Carmen, and Idomeneo. In addition, one of my favorite events of the year is The SF Opera Gala which is on September 6, 2024. I can’t wait for the season to begin. In addition, anyone subscribing with the opera between now and May 2, 2024 will ta...
brandonau
1.7K likes • 29.8K views
@sfballet just premiered a new program called British Icons that’ll be here until February 15. It brings together two of the most important British Ballet Choreographers. The first choreography started with MacMillan’s Song of the Earth that featured two incredible live singers and a dance about life, loss, and death. It was pretty cool to see all the phases we go through in our time on Earth. Aft...
andrewtourssf
1.4K likes • 0 views

🚗 Parking Advice

The Civic Center Parking Garage is a recommended option; arrive early to avoid last-minute stress. Reddit

🎶 Sound Quality

Some believe higher, cheaper seats offer excellent sound; standing room can also provide great acoustics. Reddit

@sfballet just premiered a new program called British Icons that’ll be here until February 15. It brings together two of the most important British Ballet Choreographers. The first choreography started with MacMillan’s Song of the Earth that featured two incredible live singers and a dance about life, loss, and death. It was pretty cool to see all the phases we go through in our time on Earth. Aft...
andrewtourssf
816 likes • 38.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Dress Circle Seats

Often considered some of the best seats for ballet, offering great views of choreography. Reddit+1

💰 Standing Room Tickets

A budget-friendly option for opera and ballet, offering surprisingly good views and sound. Reddit

🚗 Parking Advice

The Civic Center Parking Garage is a recommended option; arrive early to avoid last-minute stress. Reddit

🎶 Sound Quality

Some believe higher, cheaper seats offer excellent sound; standing room can also provide great acoustics. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walking Distance

Consider public transit or ride-sharing to avoid parking hassles and costs. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the War Memorial Opera House for its stunning Beaux-Arts architecture and the high quality of performances by the San Francisco Opera and Ballet. The venue is described as beautiful inside and out, with comfortable seating and a welcoming atmosphere. While some find the bars and restaurants expensive, the overall experience is highly recommended for its artistic offerings and convenient location. Reddit

"Went to the opera. Parking was close and no problems entering the building. Beautiful building inside and out. In the heart of San Francisco. Everything is clean and sanitary. Very welcoming staff and accommodating. Seats comfortable, lighting perfect, and screens for those who are not seated close up. They go out of their way to make sure the entire experience exceeds expectation. I thoroughly enjoy this venue every time. Highly recommend"

Maria Dwyer

"What an amazing experience. The War Memorial Opera is a beautiful building. We experienced Mozart's Idomeneo. Powerful!"

Chris Calabrese

"What else can you say? It's a beautiful place. I think some people may expect a more tied up, tied down experience. They do that, too. But this is a place that wants to continue to make art accessible to the people. Check your dates, dress up, (or don't, depending on the night and/or show), and go have a good time in a beautiful institution of San Francisco."

Jarod Ruane

What People Like

Beautiful architecture
High-quality performances
Welcoming staff

What People Dislike

Expensive concessions
Occasional temperature issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The War Memorial Opera House is located at 301 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94102. It's easily accessible by public transportation, including Muni buses and streetcars. Many visitors opt for ride-sharing services or taxis. If driving, the Civic Center Parking Garage is a popular choice, though arriving early is advised. Reddit

The Civic Center Parking Garage is frequently recommended. Some users have had positive experiences at the Performing Arts Garage if arriving before peak times. Street parking can also be an option, especially when government workers are leaving for the day. Reddit

Yes, public transportation is highly recommended. Muni buses and streetcars serve the Civic Center area frequently, making it a convenient and often stress-free way to reach the War Memorial Opera House. Reddit

Yes, drop-off is possible at the venue's entrance on Van Ness Avenue. This is a convenient option if you're using a taxi or ride-sharing service. TikTok

The War Memorial Opera House is generally accessible. It's advisable to contact the venue directly or check their official website for specific accessibility information regarding seating, elevators, and other facilities. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets can be purchased directly through the official websites of the San Francisco Opera and San Francisco Ballet. Subscriptions and season tickets are often available, offering potential savings. Instagram

Yes, standing room tickets are a popular budget option, often priced around $20-$25. Rush tickets may also be available for certain performances, typically released the day before. Reddit+1

For ballet, many recommend the Dress Circle seats for their excellent views of choreography. If budget is a concern, back orchestra seats can be decent, but avoid those directly under the balcony overhang. Reddit

Some patrons find that higher, less expensive seats, including the balcony and standing room, offer surprisingly good sound. The orchestra level also provides a balanced experience. Reddit

There isn't a strict dress code. Many people dress in business casual attire. Opening nights or galas might see more formal wear, while other performances are more relaxed. Reddit

🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience

The interior is as grand as the exterior, featuring beautiful architecture. You'll find comfortable seating, convenient bars and restaurants for intermissions, and helpful staff. Screens are available for those seated further back. Reddit

Yes, there are bars and restaurants available, though they can be expensive. The venue has a relaxed policy regarding bringing in some food and drinks, especially for longer intermissions. Reddit

Seating options range from orchestra and dress circle to balcony and standing room. While orchestra seats are stationary and comfortable, balcony seats can be plush movable chairs. Reddit

In some special circumstances, like during behind-the-scenes tours or specific events, it might be possible to access the stage. TikTok

The venue primarily hosts opera and ballet performances by the San Francisco Opera and San Francisco Ballet, respectively. It also hosts other performing arts events. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, photography and videography are prohibited during performances to avoid disturbing the artists and audience. Check with venue staff for specific policies regarding pre-show or intermission photography. TikTok

The exterior architecture, especially the Beaux-Arts facade, is very photogenic. Inside, the grand lobby and the auditorium itself offer stunning visual opportunities, particularly before the show begins. Reddit

Photography of stage sets is typically not allowed during performances. However, some behind-the-scenes tours or special events might permit it. TikTok

Flash photography is almost always prohibited during performances as it can disrupt the performers and other audience members. TikTok

For general sightseeing and architectural photos, a smartphone or a compact camera is sufficient. If you're interested in capturing performance details (where permitted), a camera with good low-light capabilities and zoom would be beneficial, but always check the venue's policy first. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The War Memorial Opera House can be a magical experience for families, especially for ballet performances. While opera might be more suited for older children, the San Francisco Ballet often has productions that captivate younger audiences. Consider shows with shorter runtimes or those known for their visual spectacle. Instagram+1

For budget-conscious families, standing room tickets can be a great option, allowing kids to experience the grandeur of the opera house without a significant financial commitment. Reddit Remember that while there's no strict dress code, dressing comfortably is key for children. Bringing snacks or drinks might be restricted during performances, so check venue policies beforehand. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Budget travelers can still enjoy the world-class performances at the War Memorial Opera House by taking advantage of standing room tickets or rush tickets. Reddit+1 These options significantly reduce the cost of admission, making it possible to see both the San Francisco Opera and Ballet. Reddit

Opting for public transportation or ride-sharing instead of parking can also save money. Reddit For dining, consider packing your own snacks or exploring more affordable eateries in the surrounding Civic Center area rather than the venue's expensive bars and restaurants. Reddit

💖 Couples

A performance at the War Memorial Opera House makes for a sophisticated and memorable date night. Consider booking Dress Circle seats for an enhanced viewing experience, perfect for enjoying the artistry of ballet or opera together. Reddit+1

For a truly special occasion, check if there are any gala events or opening nights happening during your visit. Dressing up for such an event can add an extra layer of romance to the evening. Reddit Enjoy a pre-show dinner in the vibrant San Francisco dining scene before heading to the opera house for a night of culture and entertainment. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Seating Guide: Finding Your Perfect Spot

Choosing the right seat at the War Memorial Opera House can significantly enhance your experience, especially for ballet where seeing the full choreography is key. Many patrons rave about the Dress Circle seats, which offer a slightly elevated perspective perfect for appreciating the dancers' movements and the overall stage picture. Reddit+1 If budget is a concern, don't dismiss the standing room options; they are a fantastic way to enjoy performances affordably and often provide surprisingly good views and acoustics. Reddit

For those prioritizing comfort and legroom, consider aisle seats, particularly if you're tall. Some Reddit users note that balcony seats, while comfortable, might be movable chairs rather than stationary theater seating. Reddit It's also worth noting that seats directly under a balcony overhang are generally not recommended for optimal sound and sightlines. Always check seating charts and consider your priorities – whether it's proximity to the stage, sound quality, or overall view – when making your selection. Reddit

Budget-Friendly Access: Standing Room & Rush Tickets

Experiencing the San Francisco Opera and Ballet doesn't have to break the bank. The War Memorial Opera House offers standing room tickets for around $20-$25, providing an accessible way to enjoy world-class performances. Reddit These tickets are typically available for the back of the orchestra level or the top balcony level, with the orchestra level generally offering better views. Reddit

Another cost-saving option is rush tickets, which are often released the day before a performance. To access these, you usually need to have an account with the opera and be on their mailing list. Reddit While these tickets are a gamble, they can offer significant savings for those willing to be flexible with their plans. Reddit

A Glimpse Behind the Scenes

For a unique perspective, some visitors have had the opportunity to walk on the stage or get up close to set pieces during special events or behind-the-scenes access. TikTok These experiences offer a deeper appreciation for the artistry and scale of the productions. TikTok

While not a regular occurrence, keep an eye out for potential tours or special access events that might allow you to explore areas beyond the main auditorium, offering a more intimate look at this historic venue. TikTok

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