What makes it 70% Kids-Friendly: School-age children can do a short architecture scavenger hunt and civic history tour, yet long quiet corridors and lack of dedicated play exhibits limit engagement after 30 minutes.
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for a scavenger hunt, art gallery, plaza picnic, and optional guided tour at a relaxed pace.
Architecture Scavenger Hunt:
Use a simple checklist to spot columns, the dome, and marble details.
Tip: Download or print the free mobile checklist and keep the activity under 20 minutes to hold kids’ attention.
Ground-Floor Art Gallery:
Browse rotating exhibits curated by the SF Arts Commission.
Tip: Encourage kids to pick a favorite piece and snap a photo to remember it.
Civic Center Plaza Play & Picnic:
Run and relax on the open lawn east of City Hall.
Tip: Bring a blanket and pre-packed snacks; visit early to avoid the midday sun.
Docent-Guided Tour:
Join a 45–60 minute tour of the Rotunda, Grand Staircase, and marble galleries.
Tip: Best for older kids; sign up at the Goodlett Place lobby kiosk or call ahead for group reservations.

Erica Rochelle Photography
San Francisco City Hall is one of the most breathtaking places to photograph. The architecture, marble details, and soft natural light make every image look straight out of a fairytale. Whether it’s an intimate elopement or a courthouse wedding, this space brings so much elegance and emotion to every moment.
Miss Me A.S.
The main Building in San Francisco which provided a variety of services: wedding ceremony, birth and death records, vote and selective service registrations, annual meetings with Board of Supervisors, Historical Museum, and ect. I think you can come there inside only by appointment because there is a very serious security system. Second floor started the big spheric-like shaped beautiful hall deco...
Taylor LR Photos
As wedding/elopement photographers based in the area, SF City Hall is iconic FOR A REASON. It's stunning, there's so many backdrops inside, and outside, of the venue. Around the venue is so many restaurants for reception, there's the beaches, POFA, and more. You have so many options for your wedding at SF City Hall! We love shooting weddings here - Taylor LR Photos
Auntie next door
nice design and architect. not big 30 min spent in there was good enough. tons of ppl attending wedding ceremony and taking photos, thus as a tourist it was hard to find a gap to take good pic
O “OU” U
San Francisco City Hall is a renowned landmark celebrated for its architectural grandeur and historical significance. The Beaux-Arts design, featuring a majestic dome, makes it a popular destination for tourists and a sought-after venue for weddings. Highlights: Architectural Beauty: Visitors often praise the building's stunning architecture, particularly the grand staircase and rotunda. It's c...
Summer offers clear dome views; spring brings blooming flowers on the plaza. Foggy winter mornings may obscure the dome lights. Weekday fall visits are less crowded.
Explore These Activities
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Entry | USD 0 |
| Snacks for 4 at plaza | USD 20 |
| Fridge magnet souvenir | USD 8 |
| Total Estimated | USD 28 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Address: 1 Dr Carlton B Goodlett Pl, San Francisco, CA 94102, USA
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