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Randall Museum: A Family-Friendly Exploration of Science, Nature, and the Arts

Explore science, nature, and art at San Francisco's Randall Museum, a free, family-friendly learning center with stunning city views.

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The Randall Museum, nestled in Corona Heights Park, San Francisco, offers a unique blend of science, nature, and art experiences. With live animal exhibits, interactive displays, and stunning city views, it's a treasured community learning center for all ages.

A brief summary to Randall Museum

  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
  • Check the museum's website for special events, workshops, and classes.
  • Take advantage of the free admission and explore all the exhibits and activities.
  • Enjoy a picnic in Corona Heights Park near the museum for stunning city views.
  • Carpool or use public transportation, as parking can be limited.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown San Francisco, take the K, L, or M MUNI Metro lines to the Castro Street Station. Walk one block north on Castro Street, away from the Castro District, and turn left onto States Street. Continue uphill for about 2/3 of a block to a crosswalk and playground entrance on the right. Walk up the playground driveway and turn left up the footpath to reach the museum. A single ride on MUNI is $3.00.

  • Walking

    From the Castro District, walk north on Castro Street, away from Market Street. Turn left onto States Street and continue uphill. The walk is steep but short. Look for the playground entrance on the right and follow the path to the museum.

  • Driving

    From Highway 101 North, follow signs for the Golden Gate Bridge. Take the Octavia Boulevard/Fell Street exit. Follow Fell Street and turn onto a street that leads to 14th Street. Turn left on Roosevelt Way, then turn right on Museum Way. The museum is at the end of the block. Free parking is available in the museum's lot and on nearby streets, but it fills up quickly. Nearby parking garages can cost $14-$43.

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Discover more about Randall Museum

The Randall Museum, a gem in San Francisco's Corona Heights Park, has been a beloved community learning center since 1951. Founded on the vision of Josephine D. Randall, the museum aims to foster a love of science, nature, and the arts. Overlooking the city, the museum provides breathtaking views of the downtown financial district and the San Francisco Bay. The museum features diverse exhibits, including live native animals, interactive science displays, and a model railroad. Visitors can explore ocean ecology, geology, and an extensive working model railroad. The museum also offers a theater, wood shop, and art and ceramics studios. The Randall Museum provides a range of programs, workshops, and classes for children, teens, and adults. These include art, science, and STEM courses, as well as special events like Bug Day and Family Halloween Day. The museum's hands-on approach to learning encourages creativity, curiosity, and a deeper understanding of the world. Originally named the "Junior Museum", the facility was established in 1937 in an old city jail. In 1951, it moved to its current location and was later renamed in honor of Josephine Randall. Renovations in 2004 and 2016 have modernized the museum, adding features like a STEM lab, toddler playroom, and updated exhibit spaces. The Randall Museum is owned and operated by the San Francisco Recreation & Parks Department, with support from the Randall Friends.

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