November 2025 brings a vibrant array of exhibitions to San Francisco’s museums, showcasing both local and international artists. The city is buzzing with cultural activities, offering residents and visitors alike a chance to engage with art, history, and science.
Piet Zwart: Brand Architect opens on November 8 at the Letterform Archive, highlighting the influential Dutch designer’s contributions to graphic design. The exhibition will host a reception on November 22, alongside a variety of programming including a sign painting workshop running from November 1 to November 9. This nonprofit arts center has been a hub for graphic design education and appreciation.
At the Walt Disney Family Museum, The Happiest Place on Earth: The Disneyland Story will commence on November 14. This exhibition dives into the history and impact of Disneyland, appealing to both fans and newcomers to the iconic theme park’s legacy.
The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) is a focal point for contemporary art enthusiasts. On November 15, the museum will unveil Kaws: Family, showcasing the renowned artist’s playful yet poignant work. Following closely, on November 22, Alejandro Cartagena: Ground Rules will open, exploring themes of community and the environment through Cartagena’s lens.
As the month progresses, SFMOMA will also see the closing of Yayoi Kusama: Aspiring to Pumpkin’s Love, the Love in My Heart on November 2, marking the end of a captivating exhibition from one of the world’s most celebrated contemporary artists.
In addition to these exhibitions, the California Academy of Sciences has introduced a newly renovated Wilson Family Nature Lab, which opened in mid-October. This space encourages hands-on learning and exploration of nature, making it a perfect destination for families and educators alike.
On November 22, the Academy will host a special event, Welcome Winter Night, featuring two baby reindeer and a variety of activities including magic shows. This one-night-only event is designed to engage the community and celebrate the season.
Further enriching the cultural landscape, SFMOMA’s People Make This Place: SFAI Stories exhibition continues through July 5, 2026, highlighting the San Francisco Art Institute’s vital role in the local arts scene. The exhibit features works from over 50 alumni and former faculty, reinforcing the institute’s impact on the community.
Another notable exhibition is Manet and Morisot at the Legion of Honor, which allows visitors to explore the connection between these two influential French painters. This exhibition provides valuable insights into their artistic dialogue and mutual influence.
For those interested in contemporary Indigenous art, the newly opened Arts of Indigenous America galleries at the de Young Museum feature works by artists like Rose B. Simpson and Leilah Babirye, showcasing the diversity and richness of Indigenous artistic expressions.
Additionally, the Museum of the African Diaspora has reopened with Unbound: Art, Blackness and the Universe, running until August 16, 2026. This exhibition invites viewers to rethink the concept of Blackness as expansive and multifaceted, featuring a diverse group of artists.
As the month unfolds, the Tenderloin Museum is set to expand, increasing its space from 3,000 to 10,000 square feet to better showcase the neighborhood’s rich history and culture. Upcoming events will include walking tours that focus on the area’s LGBTQIA+ history.
With so much happening across San Francisco’s cultural institutions, November promises to be a month of exploration and inspiration. From art exhibitions to interactive science experiences, the city offers a wealth of opportunities to engage with diverse forms of creativity and knowledge.
