About 1 Avenue of the Palms
1 Avenue of the Palms is the official address of the Treasure Island Museum, a small history museum on Treasure Island in San Francisco. It is housed in Building One , a landmark Art Deco structure originally built for the 1939 Golden Gate International Exposition . The streamlined 1930s design of Building One later became a Pan American Airways terminal and the headquarters of the U.S. Naval station on the island. Today Building One – listed on the National Register of Historic Places – contains the museum’s public galleries and visitor services. The museum was first founded in 1975 (as the Navy/Marine Corps Museum), closed in 1997 when the naval base shut down, and reopened in 2008 under a nonprofit name change to the Treasure Island Museum . It now serves as Treasure Island’s guardian of history.
The venue’s character comes from both its historic architecture and its unique theme. Inside the lobby you’ll find a 250-foot-long mural by artist Lowell Nesbitt depicting U.S. Navy and Marine history in the Pacific, which was created for the museum’s original 1975 opening . Flanking the museum entrance outside are the six original 1939 “Pacific Unity” sculptures – heroic art pieces celebrating the peoples of the Pacific – which remain integral to the building’s facade . Together these features – along with classic period details like curved walls and terrazzo floors – make the site a rare surviving example of the Expo-era “Administration Building” on Treasure Island . Visitors often remark on the sense of history here: you can stand where Pan Am Clipper planes once docked and learn how the island evolved through world fairs, military years, and rebirth as a residential neighborhood.
Events and Programming
The Treasure Island Museum at 1 Avenue of the Palms offers a steady calendar of history-focused events and exhibits rather than concerts or sports. Permanent and rotating exhibitions showcase the island’s past – for example, the current gallery in “Room 111” is titled “Little Island, Big Ideas: The First 70 Years of TI History.” Beyond exhibits, the museum hosts monthly lectures and community programs on topics like the Golden Gate Exposition, naval history, local ecology, and Bay Area cultural themes. Every few months there are special openings of new exhibit galleries (the gallery opened its second public gallery in March 2026 with artwork related to the Expo ). The museum also organizes walking tours and educational talks on-site.
One of the most notable annual events is the Treasure Island Museum’s Swing Dance Benefit in the fall. This big fundraising gala features live swing-era music (often played by local jazz bands), period cocktails from local distilleries, and dancing in the historic lobby of Building One. For example, the October 2025 swing dance was billed as the museum’s 50th anniversary celebration, with advance tickets priced at $50 (early bird) or $65 after September 30 . In addition, the museum occasionally hosts seasonal concerts and cultural events – past programs have included a holiday organ concert (December 2023) and a lecture on the story of the SS Macon (the “Ghost Blimp” exhibition in 2025) . Many lectures and small events are free to the public, while ticketed special events (like the swing dance) sell out based on local interest. Overall the vibe is educational and community-oriented – you might see schoolkids touring the exhibits, local historians giving talks, families visiting on weekends, or history buffs attending a themed lecture.
Tickets and Booking
General admission to the Treasure Island Museum’s galleries is free of charge, with no ticket required. Visitors can walk in during museum hours and explore exhibits at their leisure. For special events and fundraising programs, tickets are typically sold in advance through the museum’s website or event registration system. For instance, tickets for the annual Swing Dance benefit are made available a few months before the event, with an “early bird” discount (around $50) and a higher price (around $65) close to the date . Some events explicitly note “tickets available at the door,” but popular events often sell out, so purchasing ahead is wise. In short, if you just want to see the exhibits, you do not need a ticket or reservation; if you plan to attend a special gallery opening or fundraiser, check the museum’s email announcements or calendar online and register early. There is no box office on site, so all event booking is done online or by phone.
Seating and Layout
The building’s layout is relatively simple. Building One has a large open lobby (the former exposition ticket hall) and an adjoining room known as Gallery 111. Most museum exhibits are self-paced – you wander through panels and displays in the lobby and gallery spaces. There is no fixed theatre seating; when events are held they usually arrange folding chairs or use the fixed benches in the lobby. The décor is classic 1930s streamline style, with marble walls and high ceilings. Since this was originally an airport administration building, the hallways and lobby are spacious, but it’s not a very tall or cavernous space.
For viewing the exhibits, any spot in the lobby works well – the main attraction (the mural) is on one wall, and the “Portal to the Pacific” panels line another side. Gallery 111 is a small side room, so it can get a bit crowded on busy days. If a performance or lecture is happening, early arrivals usually find a chair near the front of the lobby facing a podium or pull-down screen. The Pacific Unity statues outside provide a great photo op – they stand on the plaza at eye level. Overall, there are no “bad seats” for seeing the exhibits, and sound levels carry through the lobby fairly well. One thing to note: for events with amplified music, the building is historic and not acoustically treated, so expect some echo. Otherwise, the views out the lobby windows include the San Francisco Bay and city skyline on one side, which is quite scenic.
Getting There and Parking
1 Avenue of the Palms is located on Treasure Island (a man-made island in the middle of San Francisco Bay). The precise address is actually 39 Treasure Island Road in Building One, but older maps and mail still use “1 Avenue of the Palms” . The island is accessible via the Bay Bridge (Interstate 80W) from San Francisco. Take the new Treasure Island/Yerba Buena Island exit on the bridge, then follow signs into Treasure Island – you will circle the roadway until Avenue of the Palms, which leads directly to Building One. Rideshare drop-offs can be done on Treasure Island Road near the building. From Oakland, you also cross the Bay Bridge to reach the same Tivoll exit.
Public transit: Muni Bus #25 runs between Treasure Island and downtown San Francisco (Salesforce Transit Center), 24 hours a day. The Treasure Island ferry (operated by Prop SF) provides a convenient 8-minute water shuttle to San Francisco’s Embarcadero (Gate B) – the ferry dock on TI is just a short walk (about 5 blocks) from Apartments One (the museum) . Once on the island, the museum is well-signed. Unfortunately, parking on Treasure Island is limited. There is a small lot surrounding Building One for local staff, but public parking is mostly street parking along Avenue of the Palms and Treasure Island Road. Many visitors leave city parking behind the island planning or take transit. (If you drive, watch for temporary construction zones as the island develops.)
Inside the Venue
As you enter Building One, you’ll go through security screening at a welcome desk (mall-style magnetometer checks are not routine, but staff may purse-check bags for large events). The atmosphere is quiet and museum-like, with friendly volunteers or guides at hand. The lobby is well-lit with natural light from the high windows. There is minimal décor beyond exhibits and the mural – it feels more like a gallery than a concert hall. Cell phone signal is usually good, and there are spots to sit on benches or ledges. The museum does not offer on-site dining or a cafe, so plan to eat before or after your visit.
Basic amenities: restrooms are available at the southwest corner of the lobby (ADA-accessible, clean and well-maintained). There is typically no coat check or bag check – visitors are expected to keep belongings with them. A small gift corner sometimes appears during events (with history-themed books and postcards) but there is no full gift shop. There is a volunteer-run information desk towards the back of the lobby where you can pick up brochures or ask questions. At ticketed events (like the swing dance), the museum provides drink stations or a pop-up bar in one corner, staffed by volunteers – alcoholic beverages (including local craft beer and distilled cocktails) may be served to attendees age 21 and over. Expect to use a credit card or digital pay (Apple/Google Pay) at these on-site bars, as cash is seldom accepted.
Nearby Amenities
Treasure Island itself offers few restaurants or hotels, since it is primarily a residential redeveloping neighborhood. For meals, most visitors go off the island. If you’re driving or riding to a show, consider dining in nearby San Francisco neighborhoods. South Beach and Dogpatch (the closest SF districts on the peninsula side) have a range of eateries – for example, casual spots at Pier 23 or sports bars near Oracle Park are about a 5-10 minute drive over the bridge. Closer in, there’s a café and lounge at the Roosevelt Island mixed-use district, and a small market on the island, but options are limited.
For drinks after an evening event, taxis and rideshare (Uber/Lyft) cover the island routes. Muni and the ferry run late, but not overnight. The #25 bus runs 24/7 so you could take it from the Transbay Terminal back to TI late, but service is infrequent at night. If staying overnight, note that there are no hotels on Treasure Island’s grounds; the closest lodging is in San Francisco (downtown or Airport area) or in Oakland if coming from the East Bay. Plan to arrive well before showtime – lines for ferry or buses can grow on weekend evenings, and the museum suggests arriving 30–45 minutes early so you have time to find a seat or grab an exhibit brochure.
What Makes This Venue Special
Unlike a typical theater or arena, 1 Avenue of the Palms (Building One on Treasure Island) is special because of its history and setting. Architecturally, it is a rare intact example of Streamline Moderne style – clean 1930s lines echo the bygone era of Golden Gate Exposition and Pan Am Clippers . Movie buffs will recognize it as the “Berlin Airport” from Indiana Jones: The Last Crusade and as a hotel in The Parent Trap, highlighting its cinematic appeal . Culturally, the museum is a living reminder of Treasure Island’s legacy: the Pacific Unity statues and the Nesbitt mural tie today’s neighborhood to its world-fair and military chapters . Local traditions have sprung up around it – for example, Treasure Island’s annual “Flea Market” and arts festivals often incorporate the museum, and history lovers from the Bay Area come here for rare lectures on topics like the “Ghost Blimp” or original Ohlone inhabitants .
Community impact: As Treasure Island redevelops into a new waterfront district, this museum anchors the island’s identity. It gives residents and visitors a reason to stop and learn about the site’s past amid a rapidly changing skyline. Both artists and audiences appreciate the space: local historians volunteer as docents, Bay Area architects and designers have contributed to past exhibits, and university programs sometimes hold field trips here. For many, the highlight of any visit is standing between those cast-stone Pacific statues (symbolizing unity across the ocean) and then walking inside to see the huge warship mural – it’s a poignant reminder of how San Francisco once looked west towards the Pacific. In short, the venue matters because it is the physical crossroads of Treasure Island’s history and the community’s future . Its uniqueness comes from being both a museum and a historic artifact itself, unlike any other multiuse space on the peninsula or the Bay.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Building One is on one level at the lobby entrance, and the museum provides wheelchair ramps and accessible restrooms, so most areas are ADA-compliant. However, some of the exhibit panels in the lobby are tall, so not all text is fully visible from a seated position. Bring: A government ID is not needed for general admission. Fair warning: the lighting is bright enough for photos, but flash is discouraged. Wear comfortable shoes, as you will likely stand or walk through exhibits for at least 30–60 minutes. There is no coat check, so keep belongings minimal. As there is no museum cafe, plan any food or drink before arrival.
Don’t bring: Large bags or backpacks may be asked to stay with you at all times, and alcohol is only allowed if part of a ticketed event with bar service. For concerts or events, check age rules on the event page – family-friendly events are all-ages, but swing dances and cocktail nights require guests to be 21+ at the bar. Dress code: Casual is fine for the museum. If you’re attending an evening fundraiser or dance, cocktail attire or vintage-style swing-dance outfits are common but not required. Pro tip: Time your visit in daylight so you can also enjoy the bay views from the island. When leaving in the evening, don’t rush out: linger for a sunset view of the city or Golden Gate Bridge – it’s one of the best vantage points in SF.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Is there an admission fee to visit 1 Avenue of the Palms (Treasure Island Museum)?
No. Admission to the Treasure Island Museum is free. You can walk into the galleries and see the exhibits at no charge. Only special events (like the annual Swing Dance benefit) require a paid ticket. General admissions and standard exhibits are always free of charge.
How do I get to 1 Avenue of the Palms using public transit?
Take the San Francisco Muni bus #25 (Treasure Island) from downtown SF. It runs 24/7 between the Transbay Terminal (Salesforce Transit Center) and Treasure Island. You can also ride the Treasure Island ferry from the Embarcadero/Ferry Building to the new Treasure Island ferry terminal, then walk a few blocks (or catch a free shuttle) to Building One. Both options drop you within a short walk of 1 Avenue of the Palms.
Is there parking available at the venue?
Parking is very limited at Treasure Island. There is no large public parking garage for visitors. A few on-street spaces and a small lot near Building One serve local staff and museum guests, but they fill up early. We recommend bus, ferry, or rideshare if possible. If you must drive, look for signed street parking on Avenue of the Palms and surrounding streets and arrive well before showtime.
What is the capacity of the venue?
Building One is not a large arena; the lobby and galleries together accommodate only a few dozen people at once. An exact fire-code capacity is not posted, but it’s on the order of 100–150 people total, seated and standing. For popular events the museum often uses overflow seating in nearby tents or waits for the next tour. Large concerts would not typically be placed here due to space limits.
Can I bring my camera or film videos inside?
Yes. Personal-use photography is allowed in the museum exhibition areas. Visitors often take photos of the murals and sculptures. Just be courteous: use no flash on paintings or documents unless explicitly permitted, and don’t block aisles. Video recording for social or personal use is fine, but professional filming (for commercial use) would require permission from the museum.
Are there any age restrictions for events here?
The museum itself has no age restriction – families and children are welcome in the exhibits. For ticketed events, it varies: the Swing Dance and any bar-inclusive events are typically 21+ (due to alcohol service), but daytime lectures and openings are all-ages. Check each event’s details. Children should always be accompanied by an adult, and strollers are usually allowed in the gallery space.
Is Building One wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Building One has been adapted for accessibility. There is a ramped entrance into the lobby and at least one elevator (or lift) for the planned expansion levels. The museum has accessible restrooms and can accommodate wheelchairs. If you need assistance, staff can provide help. The exhibits are arranged on one main level so visitors using mobility devices can enjoy them.
Does the venue have a coat check or bag check?
No formal coat/check room is provided. For routine museum visits, you just keep your personal items with you. At special events (like the swing dance), the museum will sometimes arrange a coat rack in the lobby, but guests are responsible for their belongings. It’s best to carry only what you need inside and leave valuables in your car or hotel.
What amenities are available inside 1 Avenue of the Palms?
Inside Building One you’ll find exhibit spaces in the lobby and a small gallery. Restrooms (including accessible facilities) are near the lobby. There is no restaurant or concession stand on site, so plan snacks or meals outside. The museum lobby has benches and display cases. There is no public Wi-Fi provided. Volunteers staff an information desk, and small gift items (books, postcards) may be available at lecture events. Overall, the venue is modest – it’s designed for history tours, not large performances.
Can I buy tickets at the door for events?
Some events allow door sales if not sold out, but many special programs (like benefit dances) recommend advance purchase. For the annual swing dance, there is usually an advance deadline at a higher price, then a limited number at the door. Check the event page or contact the museum to see if tickets will be sold at the venue on the event day.
Is outside food or drink allowed inside the museum?
Generally no. Outside food and beverages are not permitted in the museum galleries (similar to most museums). During ticketed events you can usually purchase drinks from the venue’s refreshment bar. If you need a snack or meal, eat before arriving or after your visit. Water bottles are usually okay but should stay capped in exhibit areas.
What are the hours of operation for the venue?
As of 2025 the museum’s free gallery hours are typically 9:00 AM–7:00 PM on weekdays and 11:00 AM–7:00 PM on weekends (closed on major holidays) . Special events may follow different schedules. It’s best to check the museum website or social media for the exact hours on the day you plan to visit. The front doors usually open about 15 minutes before events.
Are dogs or service animals allowed at the museum?
Only trained service animals (under ADA rules) are allowed inside Building One. Pets and emotional-support animals are not permitted inside the museum. Guide dogs and other certified service animals are welcome. There are no outdoor facilities for pets on the plaza, so you should leave pets at home or in your vehicle while visiting.
Do I need to buy a ticket to see the Pacific Unity sculptures outside?
No. The four remaining Pacific Unity sculptures stand on public display in the plaza in front of Building One. You can walk up and view them for free from the sidewalk at 1 Avenue of the Palms. You can even touch the statues. Inside the museum lobby (also free access), there are exhibition panels explaining the history of those iconic figures.
Is the Treasure Island Museum the same as an art gallery or concert hall?
Not exactly. It’s primarily a history museum with gallery exhibits about the island’s past. While it does host music and dance events occasionally, it is not a dedicated performing arts venue. The focus is on education and preservation. If you’re looking for concerts, the museum’s events are mostly swing-era or folk music fundraisers rather than rock shows. The space is intimate and geared toward history programming.
