Exploratorium San Francisco
A world-renowned interactive science museum on San Francisco's Pier 15, sparking curiosity through hands-on exhibits for all ages.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer school groups
Exploratorium San Francisco
Best Time
Fewer school groups

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A world-renowned interactive science museum on San Francisco's Pier 15, sparking curiosity through hands-on exhibits for all ages.
"It’s a great spot to explore whether you’re on your own, with friends, or family."
🎯 Plan for 3-4 Hours
You'll get lost in the exhibits! Many visitors spend 3-4 hours, or even longer, exploring .
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friend! The Exploratorium welcomes dogs, making it a unique spot for a pet-friendly outing .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Turntable
Indoor exhibits
Master the art of balance by keeping an object still on a spinning turntable. A mesmerizing test of physics!

Catenary Arch
Indoor exhibits
Build a self-supporting arch using numbered blocks. A hands-on lesson in structural engineering that's surprisingly satisfying.

Black Sand
Indoor exhibits
Manipulate magnetic sand with powerful magnets to visualize magnetic fields. Mesmerizing and educational!

Bay Observatory Terrace
Outdoor exhibits
Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay and skyline from this unique outdoor space.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Weekdays & After Dark
Library Pass for Free Entry
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Plan for 3-4 Hours
You'll get lost in the exhibits! Many visitors spend 3-4 hours, or even longer, exploring.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friend! The Exploratorium welcomes dogs, making it a unique spot for a pet-friendly outing.
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time by purchasing your Exploratorium SF tickets in advance online.
🍸 After Dark (18+)
Experience the museum with cocktails and no kids on Thursday nights. A popular date night spot.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Plan for 3-4 Hours
You'll get lost in the exhibits! Many visitors spend 3-4 hours, or even longer, exploring.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friend! The Exploratorium welcomes dogs, making it a unique spot for a pet-friendly outing.
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time by purchasing your Exploratorium SF tickets in advance online.
🍸 After Dark (18+)
Experience the museum with cocktails and no kids on Thursday nights. A popular date night spot.
🍽️ Ferry Building Eats
For diverse dining options, walk to the nearby Ferry Building Marketplace.
🚗 Parking Tips
A parking lot across from the museum offers monitored 24/7 parking for around $12.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Exploratorium for its incredibly engaging, hands-on exhibits that appeal to all ages, making science fun and accessible. The stunning bay views and unique 'After Dark' adult events are also frequently highlighted as major draws. While generally well-received, some find the crowds can be overwhelming during peak times.
"I had such a fun time at the Exploratorium! It’s not your typical museum — everything is hands-on and really makes you think (and play). I enjoyed exploring the many interactive exhibits and learning new things in a playful way.
The views from the Bay Observatory Terrace are also a nice bonus. It’s a great spot to explore whether you’re on your own, with friends, or family. The entry price feels fair considering how much there is to see and do. Definitely one of my favorite spots in SF for a day of curiosity and fun!"
Florian Jacquin
"If you are a science geek like me, you will love this place! The inside and outside of this place has a plethora of interactive exhibits for all ages. The hands on stations will stimulate your senses and expand your mind. A great place to learn about science, the environment, and engineering. I enjoyed all aspects of this learning place and walked out with an enlightened big smile."
Reuben Reyes
"Very great experience since the new location has been set in 2013. Last experience was at the old location in 2007 and alot has changed. New level of floors with a great restaurant that had fast and great service. New experience on the A.I. section and also the biology and insect area was very interesting. They still have some old optical illusion rooms and its still a blast to experience every single one of 'em."
David Phem (Dave Psilocin)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Exploratorium is located at Pier 15 on the Embarcadero in San Francisco.
You can reach it via public transportation, including Muni buses and streetcars that stop nearby. Driving is also an option, with parking available across the street.Yes, there's a parking lot directly across from the Exploratorium on Pier 15. It's monitored 24/7 and typically costs around $12 for several hours, making it a convenient option.
Absolutely! Several Muni bus lines and the F-Market & Wharves streetcar line stop within walking distance of the Exploratorium at Pier 15, making it easily accessible via public transit.
From downtown, you can take a short Muni bus ride or enjoy a scenic walk along the Embarcadero to reach the Exploratorium at Pier 15.
While BART doesn't stop directly at the Exploratorium, you can take BART to the Embarcadero station and then walk or take a short Muni bus ride to Pier 15.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but general admission for adults is typically around $30-$40. Check the official Exploratorium website for the most current pricing and to purchase tickets for the Exploratorium SF.
Yes, look into the Discover & Go program through your local library for free or discounted admission.
The Exploratorium also offers discounts for seniors, youth, and children. Special event tickets, like After Dark, have separate pricing.The Exploratorium's hours vary by season and day. They are typically open daily, with extended hours on Thursdays for 'After Dark' events (18+). It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date Exploratorium San Francisco hours.
While not always mandatory, booking your Exploratorium San Francisco tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially for weekends and special events, to guarantee entry and avoid queues.
Yes, the Exploratorium offers various membership levels that provide unlimited free admission for a year, discounts on guest tickets, and other perks. This is a great option if you plan to visit multiple times.
🎫 🔬 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Turntable for balance challenges,
the Catenary Arch for engineering insights, and the Black Sand exhibit to explore magnetism. The optical illusions are also a hit.Absolutely! The Exploratorium is highly engaging for adults, with many interactive exhibits that spark curiosity and learning. The 'After Dark' events are specifically designed for adults.
Yes, the Exploratorium is dog-friendly! Well-behaved dogs are welcome to explore the exhibits with their owners, making it a unique experience for pet lovers.
Most visitors find that 3-4 hours are needed to fully experience the hundreds of interactive exhibits. Some even spend longer, getting lost in the science and fun.
Yes, the Exploratorium features outdoor exhibits, including the Bay Observatory Terrace with fantastic views of the San Francisco Bay.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Exploratorium has a cafe on-site offering a variety of food and drink options. For more diverse choices, the nearby Ferry Building Marketplace is a popular recommendation.
Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the main exhibit areas, but there are designated areas where you might be able to consume your own snacks. It's best to check their policy upon arrival.
The cafe typically offers a range of options, including sandwiches, salads, snacks, and beverages, catering to a quick bite during your visit.
The Embarcadero area surrounding the Exploratorium has many dining options. The Ferry Building Marketplace, just a short walk away, offers a wide array of culinary delights.
Definitely! The 'After Dark' Thursday events (18+) are specifically designed for adults, featuring a lively atmosphere, cocktails, and all the exhibits to explore, making it a unique and fun date night option.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use at the Exploratorium. However, flash photography may be restricted in certain areas to protect exhibits or for visitor comfort.
The optical illusion exhibits,
the Bay Observatory Terrace views, and the visually engaging interactive displays like the Black Sand and Turntable make for great photo opportunities.While personal photography is usually permitted, professional photography or videography may require special permission. Always be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash where it might be disruptive.
The lighting varies throughout the museum, with some exhibits being brightly lit and others having more atmospheric or dramatic lighting, which can create interesting photographic effects.
Yes, capturing your children's engagement with the hands-on exhibits is a wonderful way to remember your visit. Just be sure to be considerate of other guests' privacy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip for families: Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid the largest crowds. Also, take advantage of the outdoor exhibits and the Bay Observatory Terrace for a change of pace and some fresh air. The museum's cafe offers kid-friendly options, or you can pack snacks to keep energy levels high throughout your visit.
👫 Couples & Date Nights
Beyond After Dark, a daytime visit can also be a fun shared experience. Exploring the exhibits side-by-side, challenging each other at interactive stations, and enjoying the stunning bay views from the Observatory Terrace provides plenty of conversation starters and shared moments of wonder.
🐶 Dog Lovers
💡 Science Enthusiasts & Lifelong Learners
Don't overlook the 'After Dark' events for an adult-focused exploration of science and art. These evenings offer a more mature and relaxed environment to engage with the exhibits, perhaps with a drink in hand, fostering deeper conversations and a more nuanced appreciation for the scientific wonders on display.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Interactive Exhibits
These exhibits aren't just about passive observation; they're about experiential learning. You can manipulate magnetic sand to visualize invisible forces, explore optical illusions that trick your eyes, and even learn about the properties of light and sound. The museum's philosophy is that learning happens best through direct experience and playful exploration. This approach makes complex scientific concepts understandable and memorable, fostering a deeper appreciation for the world around us. It’s this commitment to interactive discovery that sets the Exploratorium apart and keeps visitors coming back for more.
After Dark: An Adult Oasis
After Dark is frequently cited as a fantastic date night idea in San Francisco. It offers a unique blend of intellectual stimulation and social enjoyment. The opportunity to explore scientific wonders while sipping a cocktail creates a memorable evening. It’s a chance to reconnect with your inner child and your scientific curiosity in a setting designed for grown-ups. The reduced crowd size and the adult-oriented ambiance make it a highly recommended experience for anyone looking for a unique night out in the city.
Beyond the Exhibits: Views and Community
The Exploratorium also fosters a sense of community and offers various events throughout the year. From Pi Day celebrations with free pie to STEM workshops like Engineering Day, there are opportunities to engage with science and technology in diverse ways. The museum also prides itself on being dog-friendly, allowing visitors to share the experience with their canine companions, adding another layer of unique charm to the Exploratorium.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit