de Young Museum (Fine Arts in Golden Gate Park)

The de Young Museum was established in 1895 following the California Midwinter International Exposition to house fine arts collections for the city. The museum's current copper-clad building, designed by Herzog & de Meuron, opened in Golden Gate Park in 2005 and includes an observation tower. The de Young holds collections of American art, textiles, and costumes as well as international contemporary and historical works and hosts rotating special exhibitions and public programs. Its distinctive exterior is designed to patina over time, changing appearance with the coastal climate.