San Francisco: Walt Disney Family Museum Entry Ticket & Bay Views

Summary

Walt Disney’s story in his own words with bay views and rare art

You’ll walk through Walt Disney’s life in his own words, see original drawings up close, listen to rare audio clips, and pause for sweeping views of San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge from inside the museum. It feels personal and surprisingly moving — especially if you linger by the window or catch yourself smiling at an old cartoon.

What’s the experience like?

I thought I knew who Walt Disney was — cartoons, theme parks, that sort of thing. But walking into the Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco’s Presidio, it hit different. The building itself is kind of quiet, with these big windows letting in foggy light (classic SF), and right away there’s this feeling like you’re about to step into someone’s scrapbook. Our tickets were on my phone — just a quick scan at the door, no fuss.

There’s this part where you can actually hear Walt talking about his life — not some actor or narrator, but his actual voice. It’s scratchy and warm at the same time. I stood by one of those listening stations longer than I meant to, just because it felt so personal. There are early sketches everywhere, some with little notes scribbled on them. At one point a staff member noticed me squinting at a drawing and told me how Walt would doodle ideas on napkins when inspiration struck (I do that too — except mine are grocery lists). The model of Disneyland as he first imagined it is wild — so many tiny details I nearly missed the Matterhorn hiding in a corner.

The museum isn’t huge but you can wander at your own pace; no one rushes you. Kids were pointing out old Mickey cartoons playing on a loop in one room — honestly I got pulled into watching too, laughing at how simple and weirdly charming they are compared to today’s stuff. Out back, there’s this wall of glass with a view straight across to the Golden Gate Bridge and the bay. Even if you’re not a Disney superfan (I’m not), that view kind of sneaks up on you. I still think about how quiet it felt there for a second, just looking out over all that blue water.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Walt Disney Family Museum

• Enter museum with mobile ticket
• See early drawings and cartoons
• Listen to Walt's narrated stories
• View Walt's awards collection
• Explore Disneyland model
• Visit Diane Disney Miller Exhibition Hall
• Take photos of Golden Gate Bridge
• Enjoy views of San Francisco Bay

Top questions

Is the Walt Disney Family Museum wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible.

Are children under 5 free at the museum?

Yes, children ages 5 and under enter free with a paid adult ticket.

Can I bring a stroller or pram inside?

Yes, infants and small children can use strollers or prams throughout the museum.

What are the opening hours for the main museum?

The main museum is open Thursday through Sunday from 10am to 5:30pm (last entry at 4:30pm).

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options close to the museum.

Can I take photos inside?

Non-flash photography is allowed for personal use except where noted; no flash or professional equipment permitted.

Are service animals allowed inside?

Yes, service animals are permitted in all areas of the museum.

What’s included

Your visit includes mobile entry tickets for direct access to all main exhibits at the Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco’s Presidio. Children aged five and under join free with an adult ticket; strollers and service animals are welcome throughout every gallery space.