de Young Museum - San Francisco (CA)

1 /5 Seda Selvitopi: I visited the museum with great excitement, but unfortunately, I was a bit disappointed. The paintings weren’t interesting at all. They seemed to be aiming for a specific theme, but the intended spirit didn’t come through. The descriptions under the artworks were very insufficient. The only truly captivating part was the woodwork from Africa and Oceania. Surprisingly, more space was dedicated to a Beatles vocalist than to any of the actual artworks, which I couldnt quite understand. There was a noticeable disconnect between the themes. Additionally, the restrooms were very dirty — something that really didn’t suit a museum of this caliber. The entrance fee was $45, but sadly, it didn’t meet my expectations at all.The museum’s parking lot also doesn’t accept credit cards. All of this made the experience feel careless and poorly managed.

4 /5 Mari A: Visited during the final day of the floral exhibition and the displays were definitely beautiful. There was lots of creativity in how the flowers were paired with the art. That said, it was very crowded, which made it a bit harder to enjoy everything at a relaxed pace. Worth a visit if you’re already exploring San Francisco, especially if there’s a special event going on—but I wouldn’t say it’s a “must-see” unless you’re really into museums or art.

5 /5 Dave Wu: As a longtime fan of both The Beatles and thoughtful curation, I was blown away by the Paul McCartney Photographs 1963–64: Eyes of the Storm exhibit at the de Young. As an annual pass holder, I visit often—but this show is easily one of the most intimate and moving exhibitions I’ve experienced in years. These photographs, taken by Paul himself, chronicle the band’s meteoric rise from late 1963 through their first tour of the U.S. in early 1964. What makes it so special isn’t just the historical weight—it’s how raw and personal the images feel. From candid shots backstage and in hotel rooms to moments of quiet reflection between John, George, and Ringo, McCartney captures a whirlwind from the inside, at the eye of the storm. It’s rare to see Beatlemania through the Beatles’ own lens. And what’s astonishing is how sharp Paul’s composition is—his use of light, motion, and framing rivals many professional photographers. The show is organized chronologically by city—Liverpool, Paris, New York, D.C., Miami—and supported with engaging context that brings the era to life. Major props to the de Young for their presentation: the layout flows well, the lighting is respectful of these aged prints, and the optional audio guide adds depth without distraction. I’d recommend weekday visits to avoid the crowds. If you’re remotely interested in pop culture, photography, or 1960s history, don’t miss this one. Even if you’ve seen all the Beatles documentaries, this feels like a missing piece of the story—more human, more vulnerable. A beautiful exhibit by a surprising photographer.

5 /5 Stephanos Aemilius: The de Young Museum in San Franciscos Golden Gate Park offers a rich cultural experience with its diverse collections spanning American art from the 17th to the 21st centuries, international contemporary art, textiles, and art from Africa, Oceania, and the Americas. The museums architecture itself is noteworthy, featuring a copper-clad facade and the iconic Hamon Observation Tower, providing panoramic city views. Currently, a special temporary exhibition, "Paul McCartney Photographs 1963–64: Eyes of the Storm," offers a unique glimpse into the early days of Beatlemania through Paul McCartneys personal photographs. These recently unearthed images, taken between December 1963 and February 1964, capture intimate moments of the bands journey to superstardom, from their time in Liverpool and London to their first groundbreaking tour in the United States. The exhibition provides a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at The Beatles whirlwind experience through the lens of one of its iconic members. Beyond the temporary McCartney exhibit, the de Youngs permanent collection boasts impressive holdings, including works by renowned American artists and significant collections of textiles and costumes from around the globe. Highlights include a vast array of American paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, as well as compelling pieces from Africa, Oceania, and the Americas. The museum often integrates works from different eras and cultures to illustrate the evolution of artistic traditions and cross-cultural influences. Visiting the de Young offers a comprehensive art experience, blending historical and contemporary works with unique architectural features and captivating temporary exhibitions like the Paul McCartney show. Its a must-see destination for art enthusiasts and anyone interested in a unique perspective on a pivotal moment in music history.

4 /5 Wasana Techadilok: I had a lovely time at the museum! Its beautifully clean and showcases some really clever artists and their incredible work. It did get a bit crowded, but it was still a great experience!