Children's Creativity Museum: Sparking Innovation
Inspiring creativity and collaboration in children through hands-on art, technology, and multimedia experiences in the heart of San Francisco.
The Children's Creativity Museum, nestled in the heart of San Francisco's Yerba Buena Gardens, is a vibrant space dedicated to nurturing creativity and collaboration in children aged 2-12. Originally named Zeum when it opened in 1998, the museum rebranded in 2011 to better reflect its mission of fostering creative expression, innovation, and critical thinking. Inside, young innovators can dive into a world of hands-on exhibits designed to spark imagination and build confidence. The Animation Studio lets kids create their own stop-motion films using clay characters, learning the basics of filmmaking. In the Tech Lab, children can explore coding by programming robots to navigate mazes and complete tasks. The Imagination Lab offers a space for building and creating with blocks, Magna Tiles, and craft materials, while Storybook Park, designed for children ages 5 and under, encourages literacy through a sensory alphabet, reading tree, and puppet theater. Older children can participate in the Innovation Lab's Mystery Box Challenge, where they use limited materials to create an object based on a brief. The museum also features a Music Studio where kids can sing karaoke in front of a green screen. Beyond the exhibits, the Children's Creativity Museum offers special programs and workshops tailored to different age groups, including seasonal workshops with themes like holiday crafts and storytelling. The museum also houses the Children's Creativity Theater, a 180-seat performing arts facility. Located at 221 4th Street, the museum is easily accessible by public transportation and surrounded by other cultural attractions. Don't forget to take a spin on the LeRoy King Carousel, a beautifully restored 1906 carousel located just outside the museum.
Local tips
- Visit during off-peak hours (early morning or late afternoon) for a less crowded experience.
- Check the museum's calendar for special events and workshops.
- Take advantage of the nearby Yerba Buena Gardens for a picnic or a break between activities.
- The museum participates in Museums for All, offering free admission to EBT and Medi-Cal cardholders.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Museum of 3D Illusions for a full day of engaging exploration.
A brief summary to Children's Creativity Museum
- 221 4th St, San Francisco, SoMa, California, 94103, US
- +1415-820-3320
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From Powell Street Station (BART or Muni), exit to 4th and Market Streets. Walk south on 4th Street for two blocks to Howard Street. The museum is on the southeast corner, behind the LeRoy King Carousel. A Muni fare is approximately $2.50. Alternatively, take any Market Street SFMTA bus line (7, 9, 9R, KBUS, LBUS, NBUS, TBUS) to Market Street and 4th Street and walk two blocks south on 4th to Howard Street.
-
Walking
If you are in the SoMa district or near the Moscone Center, head east on Howard Street and turn left onto 4th Street. Continue walking straight on 4th Street until you reach 221 4th St. The museum will be on your right, located at the corner of 4th and Howard Streets.
-
Driving
From the East Bay, take I-80 West towards San Francisco and take the Fremont Street exit to Howard Street. Turn left onto Howard Street and proceed west for four blocks. The museum is located at the corner of Fourth and Howard. Several parking garages are nearby, including the Moscone Center Garage (255 3rd Street) and the Museum Parc Garage (300 3rd St). Parking rates vary, with hourly rates ranging from $15-$25 and daily rates from $30-$50. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially on weekends.
