Opera House
San Francisco Opera
San Francisco, CA, United States·Est. 1923·3,146 seats
opera
301 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94102
San Francisco Opera, founded in 1923, stands as one of the largest and most prestigious opera companies in the United States. Housed in the iconic War Memorial Opera House, a masterpiece of Beaux-Arts architecture completed in 1932, the company has established itself as a cultural institution of international renown, celebrated for its innovative productions, world-class singers, and commitment to both classical repertoire and contemporary works.
On Stage Tonight
Now Playing at San Francisco Opera
The Experience
Acoustics, seating, and what to expect
Acoustics
4.5/ 5
The War Memorial Opera House features exceptional acoustics with warm, resonant sound throughout the auditorium. The intimate scale of the 3,146-seat venue ensures clarity and presence without sacrificing the grandeur essential to operatic performance.
Best Seats
Orchestra center sections, particularly rows G through M, provide optimal sightlines and acoustic balance. Avoid extreme side boxes; mid-orchestra and lower balcony seats offer excellent value with strong acoustics.
Dress Code
Varies by Event
Visitor Guide
Tickets, pricing, and getting there
Ticket Prices
$25—$300
Typical range · USD
Rush & Day-of Tickets
Same-day rush tickets are available at the box office on a limited basis; availability varies by performance. Standing room and discounted tickets may be offered for select performances.
Student Discounts
Student discounts are available with valid student identification; specific pricing and availability should be confirmed with the box office.
Getting There
Van Ness Avenue (21, 47, 49 Muni bus lines); Civic Center BART Station (approximately 0.3 miles); Hayes Street (21 Muni bus)
Parking
Street parking is available on Van Ness Avenue and surrounding streets, though spaces are limited. The Civic Center Garage and nearby commercial lots provide paid parking options within walking distance.
Around the Venue
Plan your visit — dining, transit, and performer resources nearby
Plan Your Visit
San Francisco
1 dining
War Memorial Opera House
Reserve well in advance and plan for a leisurely meal—soufflés take 20+ minutes and arrive fresh to your table at curtain-friendly timing.
Dinner only, closed Sundays and Mondays; reservations essential
Green Room — San Francisco
Performer City Guide
5 practice spaces, 1 wellness, 1 music stores
- Sanctuary Wellness Studio$$
War Memorial Opera House
Attend a morning class before rehearsals to warm up and center yourself; many classes are taught by instructors who understand the demands of classical performance.
Classes throughout the day; drop-in and packages available
High-quality studios, professional mentorship, and a vibrant dance community
Drop-in classes are available for visiting artists; attend an evening class to network with local professional dancers.
Classes daily; studio rental by appointment
- SFCMP Rehearsal Spaces$$
Davies Symphony Hall
Book a studio in advance if you're a visiting ensemble; the staff provides invaluable technical support and can recommend local session musicians.
Available for rental daily; advance reservations required
- Cole Music$$
War Memorial Opera House
Pop in to check out newly arrived classical scores or arrange emergency repairs before a major performance—the staff knows every musician in town.
Open Tuesday–Sunday; closed Mondays
Open city guidePatron
Venue Details
Architect
Arthur Brown Jr.
Architecture
Beaux-Arts
Heritage
San Francisco Landmark; California Historical Landmark
Resident Company
San Francisco Opera
Organization
War Memorial
Current Season
View San Francisco Opera Season ScheduleNow Playing
Current productions at San Francisco Opera
Coming Soon
Upcoming performances
Insider Access
Rush, lottery, promo codes, and discount programs for shows at this theatre
No rush, lottery, or discount programs tracked for current shows
Accessibility
Wheelchair AccessibleHearing LoopSurtitlesAudio Description
Explore More
Discover All Institutions
Browse 250+ opera houses, theatres, ballet companies, and festivals worldwide.
View Full Directory