GLBT Historical Society Museum

What's On

Now

Aug

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Where We Made Room

Aleo Landeta's cyanotypes on silk, archival images and a listening station explore how Bay Area queer and trans people made homes against housing insecurity.

Now showingFrom 5 Aug$10

Permanent Collections

The Original 1978 Rainbow Flag

The only known surviving segment of Gilbert Baker's two original rainbow flags, hand-dyed and first raised at UN Plaza on 25 June 1978, on view since 2021.

Permanent collection$10

Queer Past Becomes Present

The main gallery's long-term show: photos, documents and artifacts from the society's archives telling over a century of everyday queer life in San Francisco.

Permanent collection$10

Visitor Information

How much does GLBT Historical Society Museum cost?

Standard adult admission to GLBT Historical Society Museum is $10. $6 for youth 13-17, seniors 65+, students, teachers, military and visitors with disabilities; free for children 12 and under, members, NARM/ROAM and SNAP EBT cardholders, and for everyone on the first Wednesday of each month.. Prices for special exhibitions and timed-entry slots may differ.

What are the opening hours of GLBT Historical Society Museum?

GLBT Historical Society Museum is open Tuesday to Sunday 11am-1pm and 1:30-5pm (closed for lunch 1-1:30pm); closed Mondays. Closed Saturday 17 October 2026 for the annual Reunion Gala. Free for everyone on the first Wednesday of each month.. Holiday hours can vary, so check the museum's website before you go.

Where is GLBT Historical Society Museum?

GLBT Historical Society Museum is located at 4127 18th Street, San Francisco, CA 94114, in the The Castro area of San Francisco. The nearest stations are Castro (Muni Metro K, L, M, S) and Muni bus 24, 33, 35 and 37 (Castro / 18th Street).

What can I see at GLBT Historical Society Museum?

The first standalone LGBTQ history museum in the US: a Castro storefront with archive-drawn shows and a piece of the 1978 rainbow flag. Current highlights include Where We Made Room, The Original 1978 Rainbow Flag and Queer Past Becomes Present.

Do I need to book GLBT Historical Society Museum in advance?

Booking ahead is recommended, especially for weekends, school holidays, and special exhibitions. Tickets are normally on the museum's website, and a pre-booked timed slot helps you avoid queues at the entrance.

When is the best time to visit GLBT Historical Society Museum?

Weekday mornings shortly after opening are typically the quietest, especially mid-week. Late afternoons can also be calmer. Weekends, school holidays, and the lunch rush are the busiest periods.

Is GLBT Historical Society Museum accessible?

The audioguide is free for blind, low-vision and visually impaired visitors.