Located in beautiful Lincoln Park, the Legion of Honor is a must see if you are visiting San Francisco. If you aren’t interested in art then the breathtaking views this place gives of the ocean and the Golden Gate are enough reason to visit. This museum was dedicated in 1924 for the 3,600 California men who had lost their lives during World War I in France. With the wishes of the donors being to “honor the dead, while serving the living.” 

   Upon arrival expect to see lots of wedding parties taking photos–I enjoyed seeing this. The large fountain outside is gorgeous!

The museum’s architect was George Applegarth but the museum was a copy of the Palais de la Légion d’Honneur in Paris from 1786. The detail in this structure is simply captivating–be prepared to plan accordingly to spend some time out front before you even enter the museum.

Below is the The Thinker by Rodin.

This is the plaque you see right before walking in.

Here is what you see upon entry and the current admission prices.
  There really was not enough time in a day to explore this museum! It is huge! There is so much to see and read. I wished I would have come a lot earlier–I was one of the few that security was trying to usher out after hours-haha!

  I had no idea they had Claude Monet and Vincent van Gogh paintings at this museum! Wow! These gave me chills to be able to stand next too! There is more of them to see but I don’t want to spoil it for everybody!   It was refreshing to see a museum that did not sway away from religious paintings. There were so many Biblical art pieces that were just truly touching and amazing to see in person. This painting of Jesus was heart wrenching.I am a huge Jane Austin fan and this painting below reminded me so much of the films made from her books-lovely!This is their current special exhibitions on display.

   Be ready to see a lot of sculptures. They have rooms filled with them. I thought the one below was very thought provoking.
    It was also so interesting to see so much furniture on display through out. I was not expecting that. Oh the detail that they used to put into pieces-it’s just mind blowing!   And just when you thought you had already seen so much you wander down stairs–where you will run into Egyption artifacts! Be ready to be amazed! So cool to see this mummy coffin from so long ago!

The Salon Dore below–like walking through a palace!

The Louis the XV Room Below–You can read about each piece in the room.

 Don’t miss the Holocaust Memorial. Let’s never forget.

My Quick Take: I took a lot more photos but I don’t want to spoil the experience for everyone! If you love art then this is a must for you! Be prepared to spend a lot of time here. One day is simply not enough time! I have only scratched the surface for you–when you go be sure to stop by the Constance and Henry Bowles Porcelain Gallery downstairs and English Book Illustrations room-also located downstairs.

Hours: Tues-Sun 9:30-5:15

Address: 

100 34th Ave
San Francisco, CA 94121

Phone number: 415.750.3600

Tip: There is free general admission on the first Tuesday of every month! And if you have a large group, save $1 per person if you order tickets in advance online–click here to do so.

Happy Art Exploring!

Xx,

Goldie+James

Looking for Lunch options on the water? Click here for my post about the Ferry Building.

Goldie James

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