Where is Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco, California?

Written by | Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 12:28 PM ET

The Palace of Fine Arts is located in San Francisco, California, USA. It lies between Marina District and the Presidio and is situated in the Bay Area. It is famous for its beautiful Greco-Roman architecture and scenic lagoon.

Palace of Fine Arts Location Map, San Francisco, California

Top Attractions Inside Palace of Fine Arts

  • Grand Rotunda – Iconic domed structure featuring classical architecture and reflective lagoon views.
  • Lagoon & Gardens – Scenic areas for walking, picnicking, and photography.
  • Colonnades – Classical columns surrounding the rotunda, perfect for architectural appreciation and photos.
  • Exhibition Spaces – Rotating art exhibitions and cultural events in the Palace grounds.
  • Walking Trails – Paths around the lagoon and gardens offering peaceful strolls.
  • Wildlife Viewing – Spot swans, ducks, and other birds inhabiting the lagoon area.
  • Photography & Sunset Views – Popular location for capturing the Palace’s beauty during golden hour.

Palace of Fine Arts Facts

Official NamePalace of Fine Arts
LocationSan Francisco, California, USA — Marina District, near San Francisco Bay
Latitude & Longitude37.8014° N, 122.4487° W
Total AreaApprox. 16 acres (6.5 hectares)
Established / OpenedOpened in 1915 for the Panama-Pacific International Exposition
Managed ByCity and County of San Francisco / Palace of Fine Arts Theatre management
RegionSan Francisco Bay Area / Marina District
Address3601 Lyon Street, San Francisco, CA 94123, USA
Zip Code94123
Area Code415
CurrencyUnited States Dollar (USD, $)
Time ZonePacific Time (PT) – UTC−8 Standard / UTC−7 Daylight Saving
Theme / ConceptBeaux-Arts architecture, classical Roman rotunda, reflecting lagoon, cultural & historic landmark, public events
Main Sections / AreasGrand Rotunda, Colonnades, Lagoon and Gardens, Exhibition Hall, Walkways & Courtyards
Famous AttractionsGrand Rotunda, reflecting lagoon, classical columns, photography spots, public art exhibitions, cultural events
Annual VisitorsApprox. 1 million visitors
Entry Fee TypeFree public access; fees may apply for theatre events or special exhibitions
Ticket Price RangeFree to enter grounds; theatre/event tickets vary ($10–$50)
Ticket OptionsPublic park access (free), guided tours, event and theatre tickets (optional)
Best Time to VisitYear-round; spring–fall for mild weather and outdoor photography
Nearby AirportSan Francisco International Airport (SFO) – ~13 miles (21 km)
TransportationCar, rideshare, public transit (Muni bus), walking along Marina District and Lagoon area
Official Websitehttps://palaceoffinearts.org/

Distances from Palace of Fine Arts to Nearby Landmarks

  • Crissy Field – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • Golden Gate Bridge – 4 km (2.5 mi)
  • Marina District – 1 km (0.6 mi)
  • Fisherman’s Wharf – 3 km (1.9 mi)
  • Ghirardelli Square – 3 km (1.9 mi)
  • Exploratorium – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Alcatraz Island Ferry – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Coit Tower – 4 km (2.5 mi)
  • Palace of Fine Arts Theatre – 0 km (0 mi)
  • Lombard Street – 4 km (2.5 mi)
  • Union Square – 6 km (3.7 mi)
  • Chinatown – 6 km (3.7 mi)
  • Presidio of San Francisco – 1 km (0.6 mi)
  • Baker Beach – 3 km (1.9 mi)
  • San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park – 3 km (1.9 mi)
  • Palace of Fine Arts Lagoon – 0 km (0 mi)
  • Fort Mason – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • Crissy Field Marsh – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • Pier 39 – 3 km (1.9 mi)
  • AT&T Park / Oracle Park – 6 km (3.7 mi)