Legion of Honor
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About Legion of Honor
Perched atop a hill in Lincoln Park with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and Golden Gate Bridge, the Legion of Honor is one of San Francisco's most iconic art museums. Housed in a neoclassical building, a full-scale replica of the Palais de la Légion d'Honneur in Paris, the museum was gifted to the city by Alma de Bretteville Spreckels, a prominent arts patron, and opened in 1924. Its prominent location and distinctive architecture make it a landmark attraction. The museum's diverse collection spans 4,000 years of ancient and European art, encompassing painting, sculpture, and decorative arts. Highlights include Rodin's iconic "The Thinker" situated in the outdoor Court of Honor, as well as an impressive collection of European paintings from the 15th through the early 20th centuries, including works by El Greco, Rembrandt, Monet, and Renoir. The museum also features ancient Mediterranean art, European decorative arts, and works on paper from the Achenbach Foundation for Graphic Arts. Visitors can explore permanent collections, as well as temporary exhibitions that frequently rotate, showcasing a wide array of artistic periods and styles. The museum's serene setting in Lincoln Park offers a unique blend of cultural enrichment and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for art lovers and sightseers alike.
Why visit
Visit for its impressive collection of ancient and European art, its iconic architecture, and stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Pacific Ocean.
Best time to visit
Weekdays during opening hours are generally less crowded than weekends. Arriving shortly after opening at 9:30 AM allows for a more tranquil experience.
Recommended duration
Allow about 3 hours (180 minutes).
Opening hours
- Friday
- 09:30-17:15
- Monday
- Closed
- Saturday
- 09:30-17:15
- Sunday
- 09:30-17:15
- Thursday
- 09:30-17:15
- Tuesday
- 09:30-17:15
- Wednesday
- 09:30-17:15
Information may change — verify details before visiting.
Location
100 34th Ave, San Francisco, CA 94121
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Nearby attractions
Golden Gate Bridge
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Alcatraz Island
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San Francisco Botanical Garden
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Musée Mécanique
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- Ghirardelli Square
Ghirardelli Square
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