Bay Area Discovery Museum
Inspiring creativity and discovery with hands-on exhibits and breathtaking Golden Gate Bridge views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Bay Area Discovery Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Inspiring creativity and discovery with hands-on exhibits and breathtaking Golden Gate Bridge views.
"Hands-on play meets iconic views – nestled right under the Golden Gate Bridge!"
Dress for the Weather
It's often windy and cool, even on sunny days. Layers are key! :cloud:
Library Discount Hack
Check your local library for Discover & Go passes for free or discounted admission. :books:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lookout Cove Playground
Outdoor area
An expansive outdoor play space with climbing structures and stunning Golden Gate Bridge views.

Tot Spot & Discovery Lofts
Indoor areas
Dedicated zones for babies and toddlers, offering safe, padded play and exploration.
Art Studio & Tinker Lab
Indoor areas
Spaces for creative expression, encouraging hands-on art projects and imaginative play.
Mud Kitchen & Outdoor Exploration
Outdoor area
Engage in sensory play with a mud kitchen and explore natural elements in a beautiful setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Ticket Savvy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Dress for the Weather
It's often windy and cool, even on sunny days. Layers are key! :cloud:
Library Discount Hack
Check your local library for Discover & Go passes for free or discounted admission. :books:
Little Ones First!
The Tot Spot is perfect for babies and toddlers to explore safely. :baby:
Embrace the Mess
Kids might get wet or messy, especially at the mud kitchen. Bring a change of clothes! :shirt:
Tips
from all over the internet
Dress for the Weather
It's often windy and cool, even on sunny days. Layers are key! :cloud:
Library Discount Hack
Check your local library for Discover & Go passes for free or discounted admission. :books:
Little Ones First!
The Tot Spot is perfect for babies and toddlers to explore safely. :baby:
Embrace the Mess
Kids might get wet or messy, especially at the mud kitchen. Bring a change of clothes! :shirt:
Views are a Bonus
Enjoy breathtaking Golden Gate Bridge views while the kids play. :camera:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Bay Area Discovery Museum for its engaging, hands-on exhibits and stunning location with Golden Gate Bridge views. It's particularly lauded as an excellent destination for babies and toddlers, offering safe, dedicated play areas. While the outdoor spaces and creative exhibits are a hit, some find the on-site food options pricey and the museum better suited for younger children.
"Great place for kids. My kids had an amazing time here. This is definitely for younger children. Any kids over kids 8 will get bored after a while. Over all not a bad experience with the food long line. Kids menu was cute but would not return for food. Besides, the food experience was great."
A sweet Vibe
"Best way to enjoy the museum is joining an existing member or using the public library for seasonal complimentary tickets. The kids had a blast playing outside on the play structure but be sure to dress for windy and cold temperatures since the only inside areas are also packed on the weekends. The bubble machines and putput golf exhibits were our favorite past time."
David Hsu
"Great place for kids! For my almost 5 year old it is the perfect place to spend the day. We look forward to going back!"
Abigail Figueroa
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive across the Golden Gate Bridge and follow signs to Sausalito. Public transportation options include taking a Golden Gate Transit bus from San Francisco to Sausalito, followed by a short taxi or rideshare to the museum. Some visitors have found rideshares convenient for this route.
Yes, there is on-site parking available. It can fill up quickly on busy days, so arriving early is recommended.
The address is 557 McReynolds Road, Sausalito, CA 94965.
Yes, you can take public transportation. Golden Gate Transit buses serve Sausalito from San Francisco. From the bus stop, a short taxi or rideshare will get you to the museum.
Absolutely! It's conveniently located in Fort Baker, Sausalito, with easy access by car from San Francisco and surrounding areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission is typically around $18.95 per person (adults and children over 1). Children under 1 year old are usually free. It's always best to check their official website for the most current pricing.
Yes, check your local library's Discover & Go program for potential free tickets. Memberships can also offer savings for frequent visitors. Look for special event discounts as well.
It's highly recommended to purchase tickets online in advance, especially for weekends or special events, to ensure entry and potentially save time.
Yes, they offer various membership levels, which can be a great value if you plan to visit multiple times a year.
The museum is primarily designed for children aged 6 months to 10 years, with specific areas catering to babies and toddlers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Highlights include the Lookout Cove playground, the Tot Spot for little ones, the Art Studio, and the Mud Kitchen. Many visitors rave about the hands-on nature of all exhibits.
Absolutely! The Tot Spot and Discovery Lofts are specifically designed for babies and toddlers, offering safe and engaging play areas.
Bring layers of clothing as it can be windy, a change of clothes (especially if visiting the mud kitchen), snacks, and drinks. A stroller can be helpful for younger children.
Yes, the museum offers a fantastic blend of both indoor and outdoor exhibits, allowing for play regardless of the weather.
Yes, especially at the mud kitchen and some art activities. It's part of the fun! Bringing a change of clothes is a good idea.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe on-site. However, some reviews suggest long lines and that it might not be the best value, with a cute kids' menu. Many visitors opt to bring their own snacks and drinks.
Yes, bringing your own snacks and drinks is generally allowed and recommended by many visitors, especially for younger children.
While not explicitly mentioned as dedicated picnic areas, the outdoor spaces offer opportunities for enjoying packed lunches with beautiful views.
The cafe typically offers a range of options suitable for families, including a kids' menu. Specific offerings can vary.
Some reviews indicate that the food can be pricey and lines can be long, suggesting that bringing your own food might be a more budget-friendly option.
📸 📸 Photography
The Lookout Cove area offers stunning panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, making it a prime spot for photos. The general campus also provides beautiful backdrops.
Yes, personal photography is generally allowed. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive flash photography, especially in indoor exhibits.
While personal photos are usually fine, professional photography or filming may require special permits. Check with the museum if you plan on extensive photo shoots.
A versatile camera, whether a smartphone or a DSLR, will work well. Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views and exhibits.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) can provide beautiful lighting for outdoor shots, especially with the bridge in the background. Midday can be bright but still offers great views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children (Babies & Toddlers)
Beyond these specialized areas, the outdoor spaces like Lookout Cove offer gentle climbing opportunities and sensory experiences. Remember to bring layers of clothing and a change of clothes, as the coastal weather can be unpredictable and some activities can get messy. The museum's stunning location also provides a beautiful backdrop for family photos.
💰 Budget-Conscious Visitors
Consider purchasing a museum membership if you plan on visiting more than once or twice a year, as the cost can quickly be offset by the savings. Additionally, packing your own snacks and drinks is highly recommended, as on-site food options can be pricey and lines can be long. Visiting on a weekday can also help avoid peak weekend crowds and potentially offer a more relaxed experience without additional cost.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts & Scenic Seekers
Beyond the bridge views, the museum's unique exhibits and the children's joyful interactions provide ample opportunities for candid and creative photography. The blend of innovative play structures and the natural landscape creates a visually rich environment. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and their privacy while capturing your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Exhibits: A World of Play
Beyond the dedicated toddler zones, the museum boasts a variety of engaging exhibits. The Art Studio encourages artistic expression, while the Tinker Lab invites children to experiment with building and problem-solving. Outdoors, the Lookout Cove playground provides an adventurous space with climbing structures and incredible views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Don't miss the Mud Kitchen, where sensory play reaches new heights, or Gum Nut Grove, a unique treehouse-inspired play area.
Many visitors highlight how the exhibits encourage children to learn through doing. Whether it's exploring the intricacies of a natural habitat or constructing a masterpiece, the BADM fosters a sense of wonder and discovery. The museum also hosts special events and programs throughout the year, adding an extra layer of excitement to any visit.
The Scenic Setting: More Than Just a Museum
The museum's campus itself is beautifully designed, integrating the natural landscape into the play areas. The Lookout Cove playground, in particular, capitalizes on this, allowing children to play while parents and guardians can soak in the magnificent scenery. This combination of engaging exhibits and a picturesque environment sets the BADM apart from many other children's museums.
Visitors frequently comment on the magical atmosphere created by the combination of playful exploration and the serene, scenic surroundings. It’s a place where children can learn and play, and adults can appreciate the natural beauty and iconic landmarks.
Navigating the Museum: Tips for a Smooth Visit
Dress in layers, as the coastal location can be quite windy and cool, even on sunny days. Many exhibits, particularly the Mud Kitchen, can lead to messy play, so bringing a change of clothes for the kids is a wise precaution. While the museum has a cafe, some visitors suggest that bringing your own snacks and drinks can be more convenient and cost-effective, especially for families with specific dietary needs or picky eaters.
For those looking to save on admission, checking with your local library for a Discover & Go pass is a fantastic option, as it can provide complimentary tickets. Alternatively, consider a museum membership if you anticipate frequent visits, as it can offer significant savings over time.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit