Museum Of Performance + Design

Museum of Performance and Design San Francisco: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

The Museum of Performance + Design (MP+D) stands as San Francisco’s premier institution dedicated to the preservation, exhibition, and celebration of the Bay Area’s dynamic performing arts legacy. Home to an extensive archive of over 3.5 million items—ranging from rare photographs and costumes to set designs and audiovisual recordings—MP+D is a vital resource for artists, scholars, students, and visitors interested in the region’s artistic evolution. Through rotating exhibitions, educational initiatives, and public programming, the museum offers a comprehensive and immersive experience that bridges the historical and contemporary performing arts scenes in San Francisco (MP+D Official Site, Wikipedia).

Welcome to the Museum of Performance + Design
Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
Getting There and Accessibility
Exploring the Collections and Exhibitions
Special Events, Tours, and Photography
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
History and Cultural Significance
Community Engagement and Public Programs
Legacy Oral History Program
Visitor Experience and Accessibility
Support for Artists and Researchers
FAQ
Conclusion and Final Recommendations
References

Welcome to the Museum of Performance + Design

MP+D invites visitors to discover the rich artistry and innovation that have shaped San Francisco’s performing arts landscape for more than 75 years. Whether you are a local or a tourist, the museum’s robust collections and engaging exhibits provide unique insights into the creative forces behind theater, dance, and music in the Bay Area.

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

Current Address: 2200 Jerrold Ave, Ste. T, San Francisco, CA 94124 (Bayview District) (MP+D Official)

Standard Hours:

Tuesday to Friday: 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed Sundays and Mondays
Research appointments and special tours can be arranged outside regular hours (MP+D Visit).

Admission:

General admission: Free (donations appreciated)
Guided tours: Start at $7.50 per person
Specialty tours and VIP experiences: $25 for adults, $10 for children ages 5–11, free for children under 4
Group visits and research appointments: Advance reservations strongly recommended

For the latest updates on visiting hours, events, and tickets, please visit the official MP+D website.

Getting There and Accessibility

Location: The museum is situated in San Francisco’s Bayview District, easily accessible by car and public transportation.

Public Transit:

Muni Route 9R: Bayshore Blvd and Oakdale Ave
Muni KT Line: Third St and Evans St
Bayview Shuttle Service: Additional transit support

Parking:

Free on-site parking is available.
Be mindful not to leave valuables in your car (Lonely Planet).

Accessibility:

Step-free entry, wide aisles, accessible restrooms
Service animals welcome
Staff are ready to accommodate additional needs—please call ahead for specific requests (Wheel the World, Wheelchair Travel).

Exploring the Collections and Exhibitions

MP+D’s holdings chronicle the evolution of performance and design in the Bay Area and beyond. Key highlights include:

Historic costumes and set designs from San Francisco Ballet and Opera
Archival photographs, playbills, scripts, and recordings
Artist papers and memorabilia from significant local and national figures
Special collections such as the Anna Halprin Digital Archive and Christensen Family Papers

Current Exhibition:

“The Music of Bert Williams” (through July 3, 2025) (MP+D Exhibitions)

Online Access:

Digital archives and virtual exhibitions are available for remote visitors (Calisphere, MP+D Online Resources).

Special Events, Tours, and Photography

Events:

Regular workshops, lectures, and artist talks
Special seasonal events and gala exhibitions

Guided Tours:

Available by appointment for groups and individuals
Specialty tours and VIP experiences offer deeper engagement

Photography:

Permitted in most exhibition areas
VIP packages include professional photography services (Upgraded Points)

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

Local Highlights:

Bayview Opera House
Potrero Hill and Bernal Heights neighborhoods
San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park

Travel Tips:

Weekdays are generally quieter
Bring comfortable shoes and dress in layers
Use accessibility apps like WheelMate for restroom and transit planning
Enjoy local dining at nearby eateries such as Lima Peruvian Food and The Old Clam House (MP+D Visit)

History and Cultural Significance

Founded in 1947 by Russell Hartley, MP+D began as the San Francisco Dance Archives and has since evolved into the nation’s only independent, nonprofit institution exclusively dedicated to preserving the history of performance and theatrical design (Wikipedia). Its archives serve as a living record of the city’s creative heritage and continue to grow through donations and community partnerships.

Community Engagement and Public Programs

MP+D actively fosters public dialogue and participation through:

Public programs, lectures, and workshops
Collaborations with local artists and organizations
Exhibitions that highlight underrepresented voices and promote equity in the arts (MP+D African American Performers)

Legacy Oral History Program

Since 1988, the Legacy Oral History Program has been collecting in-depth interviews with influential figures in dance, music, and theater. These oral histories preserve firsthand accounts and enrich the collective memory of the performing arts community (Legacy Oral History Program).

Visitor Experience and Accessibility

MP+D is committed to being a welcoming and inclusive space for all. The museum’s facilities are fully accessible, and staff are trained to assist visitors with diverse needs. Assistive listening devices are available for events, and digital resources ensure continued engagement with global audiences.

Support for Artists and Researchers

The archives and library are open by appointment to artists, scholars, and students, providing resources for new creative projects, academic research, and community initiatives. MP+D’s programming supports lifelong learning and professional development in the arts (MP+D About).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Museum of Performance + Design’s visiting hours?
A: Tuesday to Friday, 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM; Saturday, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM; closed Sundays and Mondays. Research visits can be arranged by appointment.

Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: General admission is free. Guided tours start at $7.50; specialty tours and VIP experiences are $25 for adults.

Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the facility is fully accessible, including restrooms and step-free entry.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by appointment—reserve in advance for the best experience.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Yes, in most exhibition areas. Some restrictions may apply to archival materials.

Q: Does the museum offer digital resources?
A: Yes, including online exhibitions and digital archives accessible via the museum’s website.

Conclusion and Final Recommendations

The Museum of Performance + Design is an essential destination for anyone seeking to understand or appreciate the depth of San Francisco’s performing arts culture. With its rich collections, engaging exhibitions, and commitment to accessibility, MP+D is both a cultural treasure and a community resource. Whether you are a casual visitor or a dedicated researcher, a trip to MP+D promises an inspiring journey through the city’s artistic past and present.