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United States/Things to Do in San Francisco, solo trip

de Young Museum (solo trip)

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How Solo-Friendly is de Young Museum?

89%Solo-Friendly
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What makes it 89% Solo-Friendly: The vast galleries, free docent tours, and 360° tower views let solo travelers roam at their own pace. Café, lockers, and frequent transit stops make an independent visit easy and safe.

Google
Reviews4.6/ 5
(from 9,097 reviews)
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Ramses the Great Exhibit in San Francisco De Young Museum
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Positives:

  • Free guided tours: Daily noon and 2 p.m. tours are included with admission.
  • Park location: Situated in Golden Gate Park, it’s easy to combine with other park visits.
  • Museum amenities: Cafe, shop, and free Wi-Fi help you relax and plan your next stop.

Challenges:

  • Limited parking: Garage spaces fill early; consider public transit or ride-share.
  • Weekend crowds: Peak midday hours can make galleries and tower busy.
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🏖️ Explore de Young Museum with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around de Young Museum. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is de Young Museum?

  • A fine arts museum in Golden Gate Park and part of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco
  • Home to a diverse collection spanning American art from the 17th through 21st centuries, international textiles, and artworks from Africa, Oceania, and the Americas
  • Architecture that features a patinating copper-clad facade and a panoramic observation tower designed by Herzog & de Meuron

What is so special about de Young Museum for solo trip?

  1. Free docent-led tours highlight key artworks for solo travelers.
  2. Observation Tower offers panoramic views over the park and bay.
  3. Outdoor sculpture garden invites creative exploration and sketching.
  4. Self-guided audio tours provide in-depth art stories at your own pace.
  5. Central park location makes it easy to extend your day in Golden Gate Park.

Recommended visit duration: 2 hours

Why 2 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: This allows time for a highlights tour, observation tower visit, and a stroll through the sculpture garden at a comfortable pace.

(View de Young Museum on Map)

Solo-Friendly Activities in de Young Museum

Docent-led Highlights Tour:

Join free guided tours at noon or 2 p.m. to learn key works’ stories.

Tip: Arrive 10 min early at the lobby station to secure your spot.

Observation Tower:

Climb 144 ft for 360° views of Golden Gate Park and the Bay.

Tip: Go early to avoid lines and catch soft morning light.

Osher Sculpture Garden:

Explore large-scale outdoor sculptures on garden paths.

Tip: Bring a sketchpad or camera for creative solo activities.

Self-guided Audio Tour:

Use the app or rent a device for in-depth artwork commentary.

Tip: Download the museum’s app beforehand to save on device rental.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to de Young Museum

  1. Time your visit: Start at a noon tour then head to the tower when tour crowds thin.
  2. Use off-peak days: Visit on weekday afternoons for smaller crowds and shorter lines.
  3. Download the app: Preload the audio tour on your phone to skip device rental.
🏖️ Tour de Young Museum like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in de Young Museum. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of de Young Museum

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Brittany Lund

Brittany Lund

Oct 2025

We had an incredible experience at this beautiful museum. My veteran husband, our oldest son, and myself were even able to enter at no cost thanks to their appreciation for military service members. There is so much to see that your eyes will grow weary, but it is all so well displayed in a comfortable setting I didn't want to leave. The museum shop is large and filled with beautiful souvenirs, b...

Erik Raucher

Erik Raucher

Aug 2025

Consistently my favorite art museum in the Bay Area; beautiful environment, professional staff, and free Saturdays for Bay Area residents! The primary collection of contemporary art is particularly great. 5 stars, BUT: - I wish they would switch up the exhibits more often. Some of these pieces have been here for 3+ years. - The McCartney and Matisse exhibits are a just a bore 🥱, and I can’t imag...

Steven Schwartz

Steven Schwartz

Aug 2025

Incredible. A large varied collection housed in an architectural wonder. A large museum that requires an enough time to begin to appreciate all its offerings. It even has an observation tower which gives grand views of Golden Gate Park and beyond. The museum also has a sculpture garden with walking trails. The museum ticket includes admission to the Legion of Honor museum. A must see.

Pezhman Raeisian

Pezhman Raeisian

Jul 2025

The de Young Museum in San Francisco is a must-visit for art and culture lovers. Located in the beautiful Golden Gate Park, it offers a rich collection of American art, textiles, and international exhibits. I was impressed by both the artwork and the striking architecture of the building itself. The observation tower provides a stunning panoramic view of the city. Staff were knowledgeable and frie...

Hana Estalilla

Hana Estalilla

Jul 2025

I think the SFMOMA is better. A strong start for a 4-star review, but I mean it. I may have a bias towards modern art, but I prefer art that makes me think. While the deYoung has small sections on recent and contemporary works, most halls are lined with classical portraits, old furniture, and ancient artifacts. Therefore, the deYoung Museum feels like a history museum rather than an art one, with...

When is the best time to visit de Young Museum (San Francisco, United States)?

In spring and summer, visit the sculpture garden in the morning to enjoy mild weather and fewer visitors.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to San Francisco on Trip.com

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Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)

ItemCost (Approx.)
General admissionUSD 20.03
Audio guide rentalUSD 7
Total EstimatedUSD 27.03

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of de Young Museum

Address: 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118, USA

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About de Young Museum

Opening Hours

Monday:Closed
Tuesday:9:30 AM – 5:15 PM
Wednesday:9:30 AM – 5:15 PM
Thursday:9:30 AM – 5:15 PM
Friday:9:30 AM – 5:15 PM
Saturday:9:30 AM – 5:15 PM
Sunday:9:30 AM – 5:15 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+1 415-750-3600

Average price

US$ 20.03
Book on GetYourGuide

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Average price

US$ 20.03
Book on GetYourGuide
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