The de Young Museum

de Young Museum - San Francisco

The first M.H. de Young Museum opened in 1895. De Young, publisher of the San Francisco Chronicle, helped inspire the 1894 California Midwinter International Exposition in Golden Gate Park which, in turn, inspired the creation of a permanent museum in the area.

The museum's early collection grew according to de Young's eclectic tastes. Over the years, he acquired a variety of paintings and objects from the South Pacific as well as Native American artifacts.

The de Young Museum changed form throughout the years, with redesigns and additions. The most recent renovation (by Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron) was completed in 2005.

The Building

The focus of the new design was on natural light and materials, including a copper facade that will oxidize over time and blend in with natural surroundings.

An observation tower affords beautiful views of the Sunset and Richmond from a glass-enclosed museum perch.

Collections & Exhibits

The de Young is known for its American painting collection spanning the colonial era through the 20th century. Additional collections: Oceanic art, African Art, Textiles and Decorative Art.

The de Young also features special exhibits as diverse as the Vivienne Westwood retrospective, an exploration of International Arts and Crafts, or the living sculpture of Gilbert & George.

In 1972, the de Young and the California Palace of the Legion of Honor merged to form The Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco.

Amenities

In addition to a museum shop (ground floor and also in the tower), the de Young has a spacious cafe with windows overlooking the grounds. The cafe offers light fare made with seasonal, local ingredients, wine, coffee and other beverages.

Special Events at the de Young

A seasonal favorite (spring through November) is Friday Nights at the de Young. The weekly event features live music, cocktails, performances and art.

In 2007, the de Young also inaugurated a new series, the Cinema Supper Club.

Location

Golden Gate Park
50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive
See: San Francisco Museum Map
San Francisco, CA 94118
Telephone: (415) 750-3600
Museum Website

The de Young's website has current admission prices and discounts.

First Tuesday is free. See additional Free Museum Days in San Francisco.

Go to: San Francisco Museum List | San Francisco Museum Map | San Francisco Photos

^{Source: de Young Museum}