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San Francisco, California / Museums

Counterculture Museum

Located at the iconic intersection of Haight and Ashbury, this museum celebrates the transformative movements of the 1960s, from hippie culture and the Beat Generation to civil and LGBTQ+ rights.

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Counterculture Museum
counterculturemuseum.org, og_image_counterculturemuseum.org

What is the Counterculture Museum known for?

The museum is dedicated to promoting a deeper understanding of countercultural movements, including the Beat Generation, hippies, civil rights, women's liberation, and LGBTQ+ rights.

What are the hours for the Counterculture Museum?

The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday, from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

How much does it cost to visit?

General admission is $10, while students, seniors, and military visitors receive a discounted rate of $8.

Where is the museum located?

It is located at 1485 Haight St, at the corner of Haight & Ashbury in San Francisco.

Does the museum offer guided tours?

Yes, the museum offers guided tours that are ideal for student groups, team building, or entertaining guests.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Counterculture Museum is a dynamic learning space situated at 1485 Haight Street, positioned exactly at the corner of Haight and Ashbury. This location serves as an epicenter of the 1960s counterculture revolution, making it a fitting home for exhibits that examine the history and lasting impact of transformative social movements. The museum was established by the founders and management of The Beat Museum, which was first created in 2003. Opened in June 2025, the museum provides a deep dive into the movements that reshaped the world. Visitors can explore dedicated sections on civil rights, gay rights, and women's liberation, causes that cofounder Estelle Cimino notes remain urgently relevant today. The exhibits also cover the Beat Generation and the 1960s hippie movement, blending historical analysis with lighter elements, such as displays on Peggy Caserta, the creator of the bell-bottom jean. One of the first experiences for visitors is a four-minute video documenting the January 1967 Human Be-In. The museum's mission is to promote a deeper understanding of these movements through artifacts and engagement. Its recognition as one of TIME's World's Greatest Places in 2026 highlights its significance as a cultural landmark in San Francisco. As a 501(c)(3) public charity, the museum offers guided tours tailored for student groups and team-building events. The atmosphere is welcoming, and guests are often greeted by Kira, a friendly Australian shepherd, and a curated playlist of music.

Visitor tips

  • General admission is $10, while students, seniors, and military visitors can enter for $8.
  • The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday, from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
  • Plan your visit for a mid-week day to avoid the larger crowds typically found at the corner of Haight and Ashbury.

Nearby context

The museum is situated at the heart of the Haight-Ashbury district, directly adjacent to the Corner of Haight and Ashbury landmark and within walking distance of the Jimi Hendrix Red House.

Sources

Evidence and links