Living in San Francisco

For over 90 years, artists and designers have called Academy of Art University their home. Founded in San Francisco since 1929, it is one of the largest private art and design university in the nation.

Our urban campus in the heart of San Francisco sits at the center of California’s most dynamic cultural, artistic, and technological resources. There is inspiration at every turn. Simply put, it is an extraordinary place to be a college student.

We are the Academy: Kennedy Shine

High school student Kennedy Shine talks about participating in the Academy’s Pre-College Art Experience (PCAE) program and taking classes in a creative city.

Student Gallery Exhibitions

Museums

Find inspiration at one of San Francisco's many world-class art museums:

Asian Art Museum Museum of the African Diaspora De Young Museum The Berkeley Museum SF MOMA Exploratorium

Visit Golden Gate Park to enjoy a treasure of varied attractions from top museums to exquisite garden to extraordinary events like Outside Lands.

Theaters & Concert Venues

San Francisco boasts some of the best Broadway musicals, award winning plays, live music concerts, and live comedy in the nation.

The Fillmore The Warfield SHN Orpheum Theater San Francisco Conservatory of Music Bill Graham Civic Auditorium The Fox Theatre SFJazz San Francisco Opera

San Francisco boasts numerous nightly events in theater, concerts, and comedy. See the best Broadway musicals, award winning plays, live music concerts, and the very latest in live comedy.

Transportation

Learn to get around San Francisco with many public transportation options to choose from, including the Academy’s own shuttle service—free for students.

Muni BART Golden Gate Transit AC Transit Cal Train Samtrans

Free for all students and staff members, our shuttle service is designed to get you efficiently and safely around our urban campus in San Francisco. Shuttle stops are located near all university buildings—all you need is your Academy student ID card.

Local Guides

Never a dull moment. These local publications are packed with daily suggestions for every type of interest.

Discover Academy of Art University

Experience our urban campus in the heart of San Francisco with a guided tour.

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