students performing a dance on campus
THE CAMPUS EXPERIENCE

Arts & Culture

Music. Galleries. Dance. Theater. USF is a place for artists, designers, architects, performers, and community members to think critically, make powerfully, and engage thoughtfully in the heart of the city that creates tomorrow.

Street & Music Festivals

From Outside Lands to Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, the J-Pop Summit to USF's Donaroo, music festivals, street fairs, and cultural celebrations are an easy way to experience the city and its diverse communities.

Singer on stage at Donaroo

Museums & Performance Spaces

USF’s campus is within walking distance of the de Young Museum and the California Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park; a short bus ride to the SFMOMA, San Francisco Ballet, and SF Opera; or an easy drive to world-class institutions in Berkeley, Oakland, Palo Alto, and San Jose.

 Hamon Observation Tower at de Young Museum in Golden Gate Park.

On-Campus Exhibits & Performances

Come see — and participate in — our many artistic programs.

xarts studio

Create Art

Our studio facilities, commonly known as “XARTS,” include dedicated 2D and 3D studios equipped with tools and equipment to support a range of media including drawing, printmaking, digital photography, video, digital fabrication, ceramics, and woodworking.

Two people looking at an exhibit.

Visit Our Gallery

USF's Thacher Gallery presents free public programs such as artist talks, craft demonstrations, and docent-led tours for all ages. The facility also serves as a professional training laboratory for students interested in arts management, museum studies, and exhibitions.

students in a mid-air jump during a dance performance

Watch a Live Performance

Students have access to multiple performance spaces, including the Presentation and Studio theaters, and groups like the College Players.