ICA SF — Attraction in San Francisco

I am so grateful we have places like ICA SF in San Francisco. Art is extremely important in today’s society, where technology is overpowering creativity and empathy and understanding is becoming increasingly rare. Art is a universal tool for learning; about other perspectives, about history, and just about humanity in general, which is why I’m so glad that ICA SF makes it free and accessible to all.

The building occupied by ICA SF is just as beautiful as the art held within it, which is fitting. It shares the block with another wonderful building, 555 California Street, and is attached to the concourse. All of the art on display when I visited was impressive and moved me in one way or another. I liked that the spaces around the pieces correlated with the art displayed, that’s something I don’t see a lot in other art museums. My favorite exhibit of the three I saw had to be the Midnight March exhibit. Mainly because the figures were cute, but also because it was based off of a Japanese folktale. As an Asian, it’s always inspiring to see art surrounding Asian experiences and history, and I think we need more of it. There was also an area near the back where visitors could make art, and I had a great time creating as well as seeing others’ creations. There were also areas to read books, and restrooms.

The only reason I give ICA SF 4 stars is because I think it could use more art! I know that free admission is already very generous, but there were empty spots here and there which I thought could totally use a display. I also think ICA SF could have more potential if the upper three floors were used, but I’m guessing there is some kind of barrier to that. Lastly, there are occasional clanking sounds coming through the walls of the building due to it being next to the underground parking garage, but that is a minor issue that can’t really be fixed.

Overall, I’m so happy I stumbled across...

The Cube is such an exciting addition to SF's art scene! Opened October 25, 2024, this is the new home of the San Francisco Art Institute, relocated from their previous location to this stunning five-story modernist building at 345 Montgomery Street. The exhibition space has more than doubled from 11,000 to 26,000 square feet, and the transformation is incredible.

The building itself is a work of art - originally the flagship Bank of America branch from 1971, redesigned by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill with a dramatic five-story atrium featuring grand staircases and cantilevered walkways. Located right at the corner of California and Montgomery Streets in the heart of the Financial District, it's super accessible by public transit.

What I love most is that admission is completely free! They focus on experimental contemporary art exhibitions that rotate regularly, often addressing social and cultural issues. No permanent collection, which keeps things fresh and dynamic. They also offer free workshops on weekends which is a nice touch.

Open Wednesday-Sunday 11am-5pm, with extended Thursday hours until 7pm. I'd recommend visiting Thursday evenings when it's less crowded. Perfect to combine with other nearby art venues like SFMOMA for a full art day. This transformation of a vacant bank into vibrant cultural space really represents downtown SF's...

Super excited to visit this museum. We all came from different parts of the city using public transportation and it was super easy to get to. It blends in and easy to miss as it’s tucked in the corner at the bottom of the BofA building at the corner of Montgomery. The displays are on 2 floors. They have a makers section so great of you have budding little ones who want to create something. Best of...