Yerba Buena Center for the Arts San Francisco
San Francisco's dynamic hub for contemporary art, film, and performance, featuring thought-provoking exhibitions and vibrant cultural experiences.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Free admission & fewer crowds
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts San Francisco
Best Time
Free admission & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
San Francisco's dynamic hub for contemporary art, film, and performance, featuring thought-provoking exhibitions and vibrant cultural experiences.
"YBCA is a dynamic and cultural hub, offering a variety of art exhibitions and performances."
🎯 Free Admission Wednesdays
Enjoy free entry to YBCA galleries every Wednesday! A great way to experience art on a budget.
✨ Nick Dong's 'Lotus'
Don't miss the 'Lotus of Impermanence' by Nick Dong; it's a truly awe-inspiring, immersive art piece.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nick Dong: 11 to 88 Exhibit
YBCA Galleries
Experience the mesmerizing 'Lotus of Impermanence' and other intricate works by Oakland-based artist Nick Dong.
Fantastic Animals from Mexico
Yerba Buena Gardens
Discover monumental Alebrijes and Nahuales sculptures inspired by Mexican magical realism.
Diverse Performing Arts
YBCA Theater
Catch captivating dance, music, and theatrical performances that showcase diverse cultural narratives.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Navigating Yerba Buena's Cultural Hub
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🎯 Free Admission Wednesdays
Enjoy free entry to YBCA galleries every Wednesday! A great way to experience art on a budget.
✨ Nick Dong's 'Lotus'
Don't miss the 'Lotus of Impermanence' by Nick Dong; it's a truly awe-inspiring, immersive art piece.
🌳 Explore Yerba Buena Gardens
Combine your art visit with a stroll through the beautiful gardens surrounding the center.
📅 Check Performance Schedule
YBCA hosts incredible dance and music. Book tickets in advance for popular shows!
Best Art Galleries to Visit?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission Wednesdays
Enjoy free entry to YBCA galleries every Wednesday! A great way to experience art on a budget.
✨ Nick Dong's 'Lotus'
Don't miss the 'Lotus of Impermanence' by Nick Dong; it's a truly awe-inspiring, immersive art piece.
🌳 Explore Yerba Buena Gardens
Combine your art visit with a stroll through the beautiful gardens surrounding the center.
📅 Check Performance Schedule
YBCA hosts incredible dance and music. Book tickets in advance for popular shows!
🎟️ Consider Combo Tickets
If visiting SFMOMA too, look for potential package deals to save on admission.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Yerba Buena Center for the Arts for its innovative contemporary art exhibitions, particularly immersive installations like Nick Dong's. The free Wednesday admission and the beautiful surrounding gardens are also significant draws. Some find the art challenging, but most appreciate its thought-provoking nature and the center's role in San Francisco's cultural landscape.
"Although I've been to the SFMOMA many times since college, it's strange that I never been to YBCA before. I was under the impression that it's more of a community art center rather than a museum. But recently, I was drawn to it by the special exhibit from Nick Dong, another fellow Taiwanese American. And it was truly an experience that shouldn't be missed. I highly recommend it."
Michael Wu PhD
"Yerba Buena Center is a dynamic and cultural hub in San Francisco, offering a variety of art exhibitions, performances, and public events. The modern architecture and beautiful gardens make it a pleasant place to visit. It's an excellent spot for art lovers and those looking to experience the vibrant cultural scene of the city."
Tina Kolot
"I was blown away.
OMG
I see the universe when I was in front of Nick Dong's art.
This is the most underrated artist I've ever seen so far.
This work should be in NYC or London.
As a former Oaklander & Taiwanese, I feel very proud."
Margie Wu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
YBCA is easily accessible via public transport. BART and Muni buses stop nearby. If driving, there are several parking garages in the Yerba Buena area, though they can be pricey.
Yes, the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts is conveniently located near BART and Muni stations, making it easy to reach via public transportation.
Many visitors opt for BART or Muni to avoid parking hassles and costs. The Moscone Center station is a common drop-off point.
Yes, several parking garages are available in the Yerba Buena district, including those at the Moscone Center and nearby hotels. Be prepared for city parking rates.
YBCA is centrally located and walkable from many downtown attractions, including SFMOMA and the Moscone Center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission to YBCA galleries is free on Wednesdays. For other days, check the official website for current ticket prices and exhibition-specific fees.
YBCA offers free admission to its galleries on Wednesdays. Some special events or performances may require paid tickets.
Opening hours vary by day and exhibition. It's best to check the official YBCA website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours.
For general gallery visits, booking in advance is usually not required, especially on free admission days. However, for popular exhibitions or performances, it's highly recommended to secure your tickets early.
YBCA offers free admission on Wednesdays. Keep an eye on their website for potential discounts for students, seniors, or special community days.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
YBCA focuses on contemporary art, featuring a diverse range of exhibitions including visual arts, film, and performance. They often showcase emerging and established artists with a focus on social and cultural themes.
Yes, YBCA is a vibrant performing arts venue hosting dance, music, theater, and film screenings. Check their schedule for upcoming events.
This exhibition features monumental sculptures of Alebrijes and Nahuales, inspired by the magical realism of Mexican folklore, displayed in the Yerba Buena Gardens.
YBCA can be a great experience for families, especially during exhibitions that are visually engaging or interactive. The surrounding gardens also offer space for children to explore.
This exhibit showcases the work of Oakland-based artist Nick Dong, including the stunning 'Lotus of Impermanence,' made with thousands of mosaic mirror pieces.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary by exhibition. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted for personal use, but it's always best to check signage or ask staff for specific guidelines.
The 'Lotus of Impermanence' by Nick Dong is a highly photogenic piece. The exterior architecture and the surrounding Yerba Buena Gardens also offer great photo opportunities. 
Yes, photography is generally allowed in Yerba Buena Gardens for personal use. It's a beautiful area for capturing cityscapes and public art.
Flash photography is typically prohibited to protect the artwork. Some exhibitions may have specific restrictions, so always be mindful of posted signs.
A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial for indoor exhibits. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing larger installations and the surrounding gardens.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting the indoor galleries, look for exhibits that are more interactive or visually striking, like Nick Dong's mirror installations, which can spark curiosity.
Consider visiting on a Wednesday for free admission to make the outing more budget-friendly. Always check the YBCA website for current exhibitions to gauge their suitability for younger visitors and plan your visit accordingly.💰 Budget Travelers
When planning your visit, consider combining your YBCA trip with other free activities in the area, such as exploring the gardens or window shopping. If you're interested in performances, keep an eye out for any special community days or discounted ticket offers that YBCA might promote on its website.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Contemporary Art at YBCA
One of the most talked-about recent exhibits was Nick Dong: 11 to 88, which captivated visitors with its intricate mirror mosaics, particularly the 'Lotus of Impermanence.' Many described the experience as seeing 'the universe' and felt a profound sense of calm and awe.
This exemplifies YBCA's commitment to immersive and impactful art experiences that resonate deeply with the audience. The center also frequently hosts performances, adding a live dimension to its artistic offerings. Beyond the galleries, YBCA is integrated into the vibrant Yerba Buena cultural district. This means you can easily combine your visit with exploring the adjacent Yerba Buena Gardens, which often feature outdoor art installations like the 'Fantastic Animals from Mexico: Alebrijes and Nahuales.'
Performance and Film at YBCA
Film enthusiasts will find YBCA's cinema program compelling, featuring independent films, documentaries, and curated film series that explore a wide range of themes. These screenings often go beyond simple entertainment, aiming to provoke thought and discussion. Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to see films that might not be available in mainstream theaters, contributing to a broader understanding of global cinema.
Attending a performance or film screening at YBCA can be a truly enriching experience. The intimate setting of the theater often allows for a closer connection with the performers, and the curated film selections provide unique cinematic journeys. It's advisable to check the YBCA schedule in advance, as popular events can sell out quickly.
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