Camera Obscura & Holograph Gallery in San Francisco
About
Perched above the stunning coastline at Sutro Heights, the Camera Obscura & Holograph Gallery offers a captivating glimpse into a centuries-old technology. Originally opened in 1946, this quirky museum provides a one-of-a-kind experience through its 360-degree live projections of the scenic Seal Rock Area, created using mirrors, lenses, and natural light. Perfect for children and anyone curious about physics and optics, the gallery embodies a charming 1950s carnival atmosphere. Visitors will be welcomed by polite and enthusiastic staff eager to share their knowledge. With an affordable entrance fee payable in cash, this attraction makes for a delightful and educational outing.
Features
Suitable for children, Wheelchair accessible entrance
Reviews and Ratings
Write a review
💚 kitschy, mid-century tourist trap in all its glory, with carnival attraction vibes 💚 on a sunny day, this mechanical attraction features a centuries-old technology of a mirror, lens, and natural light to project an image of its surroundings to delight human eyes 💚 just a few bucks to enter (as of this writing (cash only) 💚 the fella working was polite, enthusiastic about the attraction, and proud to show it off ⛔️ may not always adhere to posted hours of operation

Niche experience for anyone who likes physics, lenses, optics, or history.

Even though it was not opened as the google map showed, the construction it self was cute enough to take pictures with! A giant camera on the cliff!
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the address of Camera Obscura & Holograph Gallery?Camera Obscura & Holograph Gallery is located at 1096 Point Lobos Ave, 94121, San Francisco, Sutro Heights, USA.
- How to get here by public transport?The nearest public transport options provide quick and easy access:
- Transit station Judah/ La Playa/Ocean Beach (2.07 km walk)
- Bus stop 46th Ave & Irving St (1.93 km walk)
- Bus stop Judah/La Playa/Ocean Beach @ Java Cafe (2.04 km walk)
- How is Camera Obscura & Holograph Gallery rated by visitors?Camera Obscura & Holograph Gallery has an average rating of 4.3 based on 242 reviews across platforms such as Google.
- Is the venue suitable for children and families?Yes, the attraction is family-friendly and offers activities suitable for all ages.
1004 Point Lobos Ave, Lincoln Park
- 247 m
- Open now
- Parks
- Historical Buildings
Sutro Baths in San Francisco offers a captivating outdoor experience, appealing to both locals ...
680 Point Lobos Ave, Lincoln Park
- 284 m
- Parks
Lands End in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area offers an invigorating escape in San Fran...
846 Point Lobos Ave, Sutro Heights
- 333 m
- Open now
- Parks
Sutro Heights in San Francisco offers a captivating blend of history and natural beauty. This b...
N.E. Balboa &, Great Hwy, Sutro Heights
- 414 m
- Open now
- Attractions
Balboa Natural Area in Sutro Heights, San Francisco, offers a serene escape within its 1.84 acr...
USS San Francisco Memorial
- 558 m
- Open now
- Parks
The USS San Francisco Memorial in San Francisco offers a tranquil setting that invites both his...
1691 John F Kennedy Dr, Golden Gate Park
- 970 m
- Attractions
The Dutch Windmill in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park is a charming attraction dating back to ...
Ocean Beach Fire Pits, Golden Gate Park
- 1.04 km
- Open now
- Beaches
Ocean Beach Fire Pits in San Francisco offers a unique beachfront experience right at the edge ...
Lands End Trail, Lincoln Park
- 1.26 km
- Beaches
Mile Rock Beach in San Francisco's Lincoln Park offers a serene escape from the city's hustle. ...
100 34th Ave, Lincoln Park
- 1.36 km
- Closed now
- Museums
- Art Museums
Perched on a scenic hill within San Francisco, the Legion of Honor offers art enthusiasts a jou...
Murphy Windmill, Golden Gate Park
- 1.56 km
- Open now
- Attractions
Murphy Windmill in San Francisco offers a captivating glimpse into Dutch engineering, tucked gr...
Pier 15 Embarcadero at, Green St, Northern Waterfront
- Closed now
- Museums
- Art Museums
- Science Museums
At Exploratorium in San Francisco, curiosity is the guide. This vibrant space invites you to di...
55 Music Concourse Dr, Golden Gate Park
- Closed now
- Museums
- Planetariums
- Science Museums
- Aquariums
The California Academy of Sciences, a striking creation by architect Renzo Piano, stands proudl...
151 3rd St, SoMa
- Closed now
- Museums
- Art Museums
- Art Galleries
The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, designed by renowned architect Mario Botta, offers a ri...
104 Montgomery St, Presidio of San Francisco
- Closed today
- Museums
In the vibrant city of San Francisco lies The Walt Disney Family Museum, a captivating tribute ...
50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr, Golden Gate Park
- Closed now
- Museums
- Art Museums
Situated in the vibrant city of San Francisco, the de Young Museum offers a captivating blend o...
Pier 45, Fisherman's Wharf
- Closed now
- Museums
Musée Mécanique in San Francisco offers an intriguing journey through time with its eclectic mi...
100 34th Ave, Lincoln Park
- Closed now
- Museums
- Art Museums
Perched on a scenic hill within San Francisco, the Legion of Honor offers art enthusiasts a jou...
1201 Mason St, Nob Hill
- Closed now
- Museums
The San Francisco Cable Car Museum offers a captivating journey into the world of cable cars, a...
200 Larkin St, Civic Center
- Closed today
- Museums
- Art Museums
The Asian Art Museum in San Francisco offers a captivating journey through thousands of years a...
221 4th St, SoMa
- Closed today
- Museums
- Parks
- Childrens Museums
Located in the vibrant area near Buena Vista Park, the Children's Creativity Museum in San Fran...

- City Tours & Sightseeing
2 hours

- City Tours & Sightseeing
2 hours

- City Tours & Sightseeing
8–9 hours

- City Tours & Sightseeing
1 hour

- City Tours & Sightseeing
14 hours

- City Tours & Sightseeing
14–15 hours

- City Tours & Sightseeing
5–8 hours

- Nature & Wildlife
2–4 hours

- Nature & Wildlife
2–4 hours

- Boat Tours & Cruises
2–4 hours