California College Of The Arts

California College of the Arts: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Attractions in San Francisco

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction: Experience Creativity at CCA

Located in San Francisco’s bustling Design District, the California College of the Arts (CCA) is more than an educational institution—it is a flourishing cultural landmark. Founded in 1907, CCA has grown from a small arts and crafts school in Berkeley to a nationally acclaimed college renowned for its innovative academic programs, state-of-the-art facilities, and lasting impact on the Bay Area’s creative landscape. Whether you are an art lover, prospective student, or an urban explorer, CCA offers a compelling blend of artistic heritage and contemporary design.

This guide provides a detailed overview of CCA, including its historical evolution, academic excellence, visitor information, campus highlights, sustainability initiatives, and tips for making the most of your visit. You will also discover the vibrant art scene on campus, highlighted by the renowned Wattis Institute for Contemporary Arts, and learn about nearby San Francisco attractions that complement your CCA experience.

Stay updated on exhibitions, events, and practical visitor details by checking the official CCA website and the Wattis Institute. For personalized guides and real-time alerts, consider the Audiala app (source 1, source 2, source 3).

Historical Background and Institutional Evolution

Former Oakland campus of California College of the Arts in Rockridge, Oakland, photographed in 2024 after closure

California College of the Arts historic building at 2119 Allston Way

1908 California School of Arts and Crafts catalogue cover with historical Berkeley school building background

Clifton Hall, historic building in Oakland, California

Origins and Growth (1907–1980s)

CCA was founded in 1907 by Frederick Meyer as the School of the California Guild of Arts and Crafts, inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement. Initially based in Berkeley, the school rapidly expanded, moving to the historic James Treadwell estate in Oakland by 1922. Here, specialized studios in jewelry, ceramics, and sculpture flourished, and the institution became known as the California College of Arts and Crafts (CCAC) in 1936. Graduate education began in 1940 with the launch of the MFA program.

Dual-Campus Era and Bay Area Impact (1980s–2016)

Recognizing the energy of San Francisco’s art scene, CCA opened its San Francisco campus in the 1980s, initially in a repurposed Greyhound facility, focusing on design, architecture, and new media. This era established CCA’s strong presence in both Oakland and San Francisco.

Modernization and Consolidation (2003–Present)

In 2003, the school became California College of the Arts (CCA), reflecting its broadening vision. By 2016, CCA announced the unification of all academic programs in San Francisco, closing the Oakland campus in 2022. The new consolidated campus at 145 Hooper Street features cutting-edge facilities and fosters interdisciplinary collaboration. Recent philanthropic support, including a $22.5 million matched donation from Nvidia co-founder Jensen Huang in 2025, ensures CCA’s continued growth.

Academic and Cultural Significance

CCA has nurtured influential artists and designers, contributing to movements such as Funk art. Alumni like Robert Arneson and Ruth Asawa have shaped the art world and engaged in community activism. The Wattis Institute for Contemporary Arts serves as a vital center for exhibitions, artist talks, and research, engaging audiences both locally and globally.

Visiting CCA: Galleries, Exhibitions, and Visitor Experience

Campus Galleries and Public Programs

Wattis Institute: Open Wednesday–Saturday, 12:00 pm–6:00 pm, with free admission. Sign in with photo ID at the security desk.
Novack Gallery and Blattner Hall Gallery: Feature rotating exhibitions of student and faculty work. (Note: Blattner Hall Gallery is closed through August 2025.)
Public Programs: Regular exhibitions, artist talks, and cultural events invite public engagement.

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Campus Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 am–6:00 pm; Saturday, 10:00 am–4:00 pm; closed Sundays and major holidays.
Admission: Free for most exhibitions and galleries. Special events may require tickets—check the CCA exhibitions calendar.
Tours: Weekly in-person tours are available by registration. Virtual tours are also offered online.

Accessibility and Transportation

Fully wheelchair accessible with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
Located at 145 Hooper Street, San Francisco, CA 94107. Accessible via BART (Civic Center or 16th Street stations), Muni lines 19, 22, and 55, and bike-friendly routes.
Limited street parking; public transportation is encouraged.

Visitor Tips

Visit during weekday afternoons for quieter gallery experiences.
Bring a photo ID for entry.
Explore nearby cafes, shops, and art spaces in the Design District.
Photography is allowed in most public areas unless otherwise posted.

Campus Facilities and Sustainability

Unified Campus Design

Main Building & Nave: Central corridor for studios, critiques, and interdisciplinary exchange.
Simpson Family Makers Building: Makerspaces and fabrication labs for hands-on learning.
Hooper and Irwin Pavilions: Mass timber structures with classrooms, studios, and event spaces.
Graduate Center: Dedicated research and studio spaces for graduate students.
Residence Halls: Founders Hall and Blattner Hall provide modern student housing.

Outdoor and Community Spaces

Terraced landscapes, balconies, and rooftop event platforms encourage outdoor learning and community gatherings.

Sustainability Initiatives

Carbon-neutral and net-zero energy goals, with a clean energy microgrid and passive ventilation.
Mass timber and concrete construction for reduced carbon footprint.
Water-efficient landscaping and green terraces.
Recognized by awards such as the COTE Top Ten Green Building.

Academic Programs

Undergraduate

Architecture (BArch): Focus on experimental and sustainable design (CCA Architecture).
Animation, Comics, Ceramics, Sculpture, Photography, Textiles, Writing + Literature: Wide-ranging BFA and BA offerings.
Minors: Options include Computational Practices, Ecological Practices, and more (CCA Minors).

Graduate

Curatorial Practice (MA), Design (MFA), Film (MFA), Writing (MFA): Advanced studio and academic programs (CCA Graduate Programs).

Special Learning Opportunities

Internships, interdisciplinary studios, and non-credit adult classes (CCA Adult Classes).

Campus Community and Cultural Impact

Inclusive Environment: Below-market-rate student housing and robust student support services (CCA Housing).
Diversity and Social Engagement: Critical ethnic studies and civic engagement programs (CCA Newsroom).
Historical Significance: Located on Ohlone land, with a legacy of community engagement (CCA Land Acknowledgment).
Artistic Leadership: Faculty and alumni are leaders in the creative world (CCA Newsroom).
Public Art and Events: The Wattis Institute and campus events enrich the local arts scene (CCA Wattis Institute, SF Travel Arts & Culture).

Exploring CCA and San Francisco: Practical Details

Dining: Makers Cafe offers on-campus dining; numerous local options nearby.
Nearby Attractions: SFMOMA, de Young Museum, Mission District murals, and more (SF Museums).
Photo Opportunities: Architectural highlights and campus life provide excellent backdrops.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for CCA?
A: Monday–Friday, 9:00 am–6:00 pm; Saturday, 10:00 am–4:00 pm. Gallery hours may differ.

Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes, most exhibitions and campus access are free. Some events require tickets.

Q: Are tours available?
A: Yes, register for in-person or virtual tours via the CCA admissions page.

Q: Is the campus accessible?
A: Fully wheelchair accessible. Contact admissions for specific needs.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Generally allowed in public spaces unless otherwise indicated.

Plan Your Visit

Location: 145 Hooper Street, San Francisco, CA 94107
Arrange your visit: CCA admissions and visit information
Events and programs: CCA Events
Wattis Institute exhibitions: Wattis Institute
For curated tours and alerts: Download the Audiala app

Final Thoughts

The California College of the Arts stands as a testament to creativity, sustainability, and community engagement in San Francisco. With its free admission to galleries, welcoming campus, and close proximity to major cultural institutions, CCA is an essential destination for anyone interested in art, design, and innovation. Plan your visit to witness the future of art and design unfold in the heart of the city. For further details, explore the CCA admissions and visitor pages and the Wattis Institute (source 1, source 2, source 3).