This magnificent Palace of Fine Arts was a star attraction of the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition, which celebrated the Panama Canal’s completion and San Francisco’s recovery from the 1906 earthquake. The building was inspired by Roman ruins, also drawing inspiration from Greek architecture and was not designed as a permanent exhibit.
However, San Franciscans took the palace to their hearts and it survived its intended demolition. In the past, it has housed 18 tennis courts and even served as a military store during World War II. In 1964, a major restoration programme began, tearing down the original structure, leaving only its original steel frame and restoring it to its former glory, building it to last this time round.
The palace is beautiful both inside and out. The majestic building comprising a grand rotunda and 335-metre pergola is surrounded by a beautiful artificial lagoon, the home to graceful swans, ducks, geese and turtles. This serene location is the perfect spot for a picnic and to while away a few hours taking in the beautiful surroundings and majestic architecture.
The Palace of Fine Arts is located to the west of Fisherman's Wharf in the Marina District. It’s around three kilometres from the wharf, past Ghirardelli Square. It can be easily accessed on foot and by public transport. Several Muni buses will take you there. There’s also a car park on the west side accessible from Lyon Street.
