Summary
104 Montgomery St, San Francisco, CA 94129, USA
Phone +1 415-345-6800
Mickey Mouse and Disneyland are intertwined with American culture. However, many young people today may not grasp the significance of the Disney name as previous generations did; it’s more than merely a corporate logo.
The Walt Disney Family Museum seeks to celebrate the life and accomplishments of Walt Disney himself. It does not focus on the broader history of the corporation or offer conventional Disney entertainment. In fact, it’s completely independent from the parent company associated with the Disney brand.
What You’ll Find at the Disney Family Museum
The Disney Family Museum isn’t a traditional “Disney” museum filled with characters and amusement rides. Instead, it narrates the story of a man whose true passion was storytelling. If learning about Walt Disney’s life doesn’t excite you, this venue may not be your ideal destination.
On the contrary, if you find joy in watching Disney’s early short films or become inspired by seeing one of the original multiplane cameras used to create Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, then this is undoubtedly the right spot for you.
The museum features ten permanent galleries, which display exhibits in chronological order. You’ll appreciate the distinctive Disney style throughout the collections, including some of Mickey Mouse’s earliest drawings and a unique 12-foot-diameter model showcasing the Disneyland that Walt envisioned, complete with attractions he personally developed.
Visitors will have “wow” moments as they observe animations that unexpectedly come to life on the walls. For instance, you might leaf through camera effects technician Herman Schulties’ 1939 notebook—a fascinating find—and discover an interactive screen allowing you to explore digitized pages alongside corresponding film clips.
You can experience the museum in a variety of ways. If you’re a local, consider taking several visits: once to understand the life story of this exceptional individual, again to delve into the evolution of animated filmmaking, and perhaps a third time to follow your particular interests within the exhibits. One visitor reminisced, “It brought up memories I didn’t even know I had,” which speaks volumes about the museum’s impact.
Walt Disney Family Museum Tips
- Arriving in the morning allows you to enjoy your visit right up to lunchtime, when you can take a break at the small café on-site, which offers sandwiches, salads, and more.
- Service animals are permitted, yet other pets aren’t allowed. Unfortunately, there are no nearby boarding options, so it’s best to leave pets at home.
- While it may be tempting, photography inside the museum is prohibited.
- Dedicated fans might spend an extended period exploring the exhibits, so wear comfortable shoes as seating options are limited.
Walt Disney Family Museum With Kids
This museum may appeal primarily to baby boomers who grew up enjoying Walt Disney’s television shows. However, children will certainly enjoy the classic cartoons and some interactive displays. Be cautious, as they might become impatient while adults take their time reading every informational panel and reminiscing.
It’s important to consider your kids’ behavior; if they are likely to be disruptive, seek an alternative environment for them. Additionally, please note that strollers are not permitted, and there are few hands-on exhibits suitable for more tactile children.
What You Need to Know About the Walt Disney Family Museum
Interestingly, the Disney Family Museum is located in San Francisco due to the proximity of Disney’s daughter, Diane Disney Miller. She believed that the Presidio would provide an ideal setting for a museum dedicated to her father. Although it is curious that this establishment, focused on an individual who primarily lived and worked in Southern California, resides in San Francisco, it’s best to appreciate the venue itself without overthinking its location.
For the latest information on ticket prices and museum hours, visit their website directly. Plan to spend at least half a day here, or longer if you’re particularly fond of Walt Disney and his groundbreaking work. Weekdays tend to draw smaller crowds, enhancing your experience.
Located near the Golden Gate Bridge, set your GPS to 104 Montgomery Street or navigate into the Presidio to find the distinctive row of red-brick buildings. Two public parking lots are available right in front of and behind the museum, though a fee is required to access both (including the limited street parking).
For public transportation, the Presidio transit center can be easily accessed near the museum entrance. San Francisco Muni routes 28 and 29 service the area. For assistance with directions from anywhere in the San Francisco vicinity, you can consult Transit 511.
