The main library in the city is in the heart of Civic Center. It's next to the Asian Art Museum and opposite City Hall. The downtown farmer's market is just around the corner. The events in the library are often overlooked, as if it's a secret.
As a kid, I went to the main library to do research for school assignments. Sometimes the photo exhibits in the hall would catch my attention but most times I'd sprint past them. Photos of old San Francisco always get my attention. The SF Historical Photo collection is open Tue, Thu and Sat only. You can even order a print of a photo of your choice!
There are exhibits, lectures and workshops for adults and children year round. Analog Mondays in the Children's Center of the library is an updates STEM program for teens. The Thursdays @ Noon Film series shows a variety of old and new movies.
You can even learn Tai Chi for free on Wednesdays to practice before joining locals in the parks.
Because it's so close to other must see sites like The Opera House, it's not out of the way but it is a nice quiet space to relax and learn a little about the history of San Francisco or read a good book.
100 Larkin Street
US$
free
4155574400
Find your way with 158 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved this Spot? And love your city? Join your local team. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
"Critical Mass" San Francisco is lots of fun and serious for some. Everyone is invited! No one is in charge! Body paint, optional.
by
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
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
The Louise M Davies Symphony Hall is a beautiful space of culture and concerts. There's always something and fresh to enjoy by the SF Symphony here!
by
"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
"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
"Victoria Pastry Co." has prompted me to travel across San Francisco solely to enjoy one of its famed cannolis. Walking into it is a test of self-control.
by
"Oracle Park" in San Francisco is one of the finest baseball stadiums in America. With panoramic views of the bay, it's uniquely San Franciscan...
by
"SOMArts" is a perfect example of what I enjoy about San Francisco. It's an old warehouse that's a boundary-pushing hotspot for local art & music...
by
"Ocean Aquarium" in San Francisco is a beautiful fish & aquarium store on the most unremarkable side alleyway you can think of. So glad we found it...
by
The focaccia at "Liguria Bakery" brings Italy to San Francisco. The place feels so familiar for locals. Everyone has a story about the first time they tried.
by
"Golden Boy Pizza" is far and away the best pizza place in San Francisco. I know this is a bold claim, but everything about it is perfection...
by
158 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 158 Insider Tips