de Young Museum, San Francisco

What a beautiful museum space. I went to the de Young early on a Saturday for the current Monet exhibit and really enjoyed the entire museum experience. Just when I thought the galleries would end, there would be another gallery with something I really wanted to explore related to the previous exhibit. The space itself is very beautiful and utilized wonderfully for the exhibits currently on display. Also, it's in Golden Gate park, which gives you access to one of the most beautiful parks on the planet, as well as all the other activities available there. Golden Gate park rules and the de Young is no exception.

Explore the collection in this wonderful structure! Be sure to go to the top of the tower for a great view of the city. We went to see the Monet and Gauguin shows - both were wonderful. A walk in the sculpture garden was a welcome breath of fresh air after taking in so much inside the building. For those who love art - you might want to consider the membership. If you go more than once with a companion, it pays for itself pretty quickly. Just a note, parking in the basement (entrance at 10th and Fulton) is pricey, but worth it on a rainy day. The cafe has a nice selection of hot and cold foods, but not for the budget minded.