Right around the Civic Center [1], music takes a turn for the upscale. This is the neighborhood where the ultra-rich (and not so much) classics lovers come to enjoy a night out. Acoustically renovated in 1992, Davies Symphony Hall (201 Van Ness Ave., 415/864-6000, www.sfsymphony.org [2]) is home to Michael Tilson Thomas’ San Francisco Symphony. Loyal patrons flock for performances that range from the classic to the avant-garde.
The War Memorial Opera House (301 Van Ness Ave., 415/621-6600, www.sfwmpac.org [3]), a beaux arts–style building designed by Coit Tower [4] and City Hall [5] architect Arthur Brown, Jr., houses the San Francisco Opera and San Francisco Ballet. Tours are available Mondays 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Links:
[1] http://www.moon.com/destinations/california/san-francisco-and-the-bay-area/sights/civic-center-and-hayes-valley
[2] http://www.sfsymphony.org
[3] http://www.sfwmpac.org
[4] http://www.moon.com/destinations/california/san-francisco-and-the-bay-area/sights/north-beach-and-fisherman-s-wharf/coit-tower
[5] http://www.moon.com/destinations/california/san-francisco-and-the-bay-area/sights/civic-center-and-hayes-valley/city-hall