de Young Museum of San Francisco

January 14, 2006 - San Francisco, CA / Photos / San Francisco

First off, you should know that I'm not a huge art museum guy. But, I'm up for the occasional dose of culture so on Saturday Gretchen and I went to the new de Young Museum in San Francisco.

Here it is in a nutshell.

Go. But only on a quiet weekday.

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The building's architecture alone is worth the $10 admission. It is unlike any building I have ever seen.

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However, we found it suprisingly hard to find our way around. After waiting in a line outside and enduring a security check from a grumpy and unhelpful guard, we found ourselves in the lobby filled with people. Unsure where to go.

There is very little signage. We wandered around a bit before finding the line to pay admission. Once we had a map, it was no problem. But, we overheard others having trouble getting around as well.

The exhibits were interesting. I was drawn to the old photographs and some of the other ancient relics. I just can't get into modern art though.

I mean, look at this. Is this art?

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I guess it is. It is in an art gallery after all. But, really. It's white canvas with a blue border. If someone pays for that. I'm in the wrong business.

Thankfully, the modern section takes up a small portion of the entire museum.

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The view from the 9th floor of the tower is one of the best in the city.

Overall, it was worth seeing. However, take my advice and go on a week day when the crowds are smaller. (They are closed on Monday though.) Also, they have a podcast that describes some of the exhibits. It is worth listening to before you go.