War Memorial Opera House

The War Memorial Opera House is an opera house in San Francisco that combines Neoclassical design with Roman Doric columns, a 38-foot (11.6 meter) lobby ceiling, and an auditorium seating around 3,146 people. The building contains multiple levels and support spaces designed to function as a full-service performance venue.

The building was completed in 1932 and served in 1945 as the location where the United Nations Charter was drafted, giving San Francisco international importance. This defining moment shaped how the venue is understood within global history.

The venue serves as San Francisco's principal stage for opera and ballet performances, shaping how the city presents its artistic identity to audiences year-round. This role has made it a gathering place for people who value live performance and classical arts.

Performances happen regularly throughout the year, so booking ahead gives you better choices for dates and times. The building is accessible and designed to accommodate visitors who need assistance finding their way.

The building was originally conceived as a memorial to war veterans rather than as an opera house, which explains its distinctive name. Despite this unusual origin, it evolved into one of the country's leading performance venues.

Location: San Francisco

Inception: 1932

Architects: Arthur Brown, Jr., G. Albert Lansburgh

Official opening: 1932

Architectural style: Neoclassical architecture

Website: http://sfwmpac.org

GPS coordinates: 37.77860,-122.42100

Latest update: December 7, 2025 10:04