The Palace of Fine Arts San Francisco
Afternoon with the Gods
I started walking the grounds surrounding the collective area known as the Palace of Fine Arts but approached with an open mind because what I expected and what I saw and experienced were two entirely different things.
Granted, pictures are everywhere, but I was sure I’d never be able to capture the emotion I was beginning to feel just walking the grounds. Considering the 12 Olympian gods had an entire mountain to themselves, the size of the Palace and its grounds would probably have been laughable.
And yet, strolling those lush grounds with the goddesses looking down from above, the angels above the entrances, the fountain, the planters, staircases, and reliefs, all made me realize that these amazing edifices were all created by mere mortals for the enjoyment of the people attending the Pan Pacific Exhibition in 1915. Impressive.
The Palace of Fine Arts comprises the only surviving structures from that exhibition. Such beauty being available to the public at large, and for free, is a rarity in a big city. To have it as a standing memento to such a glorious time in history is truly remarkable.
Go. Stroll the grounds Immerse yourself in the awe, the power, and the beauty. Spend an afternoon with the Gods and with just a little bit of imagination, you’ll feel like you’re on Mt. Olympus and witnessing part of history too!
Find your way with 158 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in San Francisco
Graffiti Murals
Unbelievable
The Graffiti Murals in San Francisco, close to the Steiner end of Haight street, have been created by artists that are talented beyond imagination...
by
Kathleen
Messmer
Ingleside Terraces Sundial
Largest in the US
The "Ingleside Terraces Sundial" in San Francisco is the largest sundial in the US. It's more than 100 years old & still tells the time very accurately...
by
Kathleen
Messmer
Church of 8 Wheels
Holy rollers unite!
This San Francisco church has a rich history... today, the "Church of 8 Wheels", created by the Godfather of Skating, is the epicenter of the SF scene...
by
Nadine
Johnson
Talk About Stairs!
Neighborhood steps up
You might notice that each brick on this staircase at San Francisco's Coit Tower has a name written on it. Here's the forgotten story behind those names.
by
Kathleen
Messmer
CA Coastal Trail
Walk along the Pacific
"CA Coastal Trail" in Francisco is a calm, easy and beautiful hike that includes quite a few Bay Area landmarks - and all next to the ocean...
by
Kathleen
Messmer
Lloyd Lake
A Peaceful Escape in San Francisco
Lloyd Lake in Golden Gate Park is a peaceful escape with the historic Portals of the Past — a quiet and calm spot to relax and enjoy San Francisco’s charm.
by
Kathleen
Messmer
Critical Mass
Better together
"Critical Mass" San Francisco is lots of fun and serious for some. Everyone is invited! No one is in charge! Body paint, optional.
by
Nadine
Johnson
Cinderella Russian Bakery and Cafe
Hits the spot!
Thanks to "Cinderella Russian Bakery and Cafe" in San Francisco, I can now find some of my favorite comfort food including the piroshki any time I want!
by
Nadine
Johnson
City Arts & Lectures
At the Nourse Theater
San Francisco loves City Arts and Lectures! And, I love it too. Now I can go to the Nourse Theater and enjoy inspiring speakers and discussions.
by
Nadine
Johnson
Swensen's Ice Cream
Same corner since '48
"Swensen's Ice Cream" in San Francisco hasn't changed since 1948. It's the chain's first store and I sill buy bulk ice cream here when I'm in the area...
by
Marcus
D'Avignon
Pug Sunday
Fun for dogs and humans
"Pug Sunday" in San Francisco is on the first Sunday of every month. Four-legged and two-legged creatures alike welcome the new month at Altaza Park.
by
Sasha
Sommer
Heading to San Francisco?
158 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 158 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves San Francisco
Get to know our other Spotters from San Francisco
As featured on:
