Exploratorium, San Francisco Travel Guide

4.7 (8026)

Discover the wonders of science, art, and human perception at San Francisco's Exploratorium, a hands-on museum for all ages.

The Exploratorium in San Francisco is a captivating museum that brings science, art, and human perception together through hands-on exhibits. Founded by physicist Frank Oppenheimer, it encourages visitors of all ages to explore, experiment, and discover the world around them. With hundreds of interactive displays, the Exploratorium offers a unique learning experience that's both educational and fun.

A brief summary to Exploratorium

Pier 15 Embarcadero at, Green St, San Francisco, Northern Waterfront, CA, 94111, US
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Monday 10 am-5 pm
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
Sunday 12 pm-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Exploratorium.

Purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid long lines.
Visit on a Thursday night for the 'After Dark' program, an adults-only event with live music and cocktails.
Check out the free outdoor exhibits, including stationary bikes and climbing structures.
Take advantage of the Exploratorium's partnership with SP+ Parking for discounted parking at the Pier 15 lot.
Allow ample time to explore all the exhibits; you could easily spend an entire afternoon here.

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Explore Exploratorium on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Exploratorium, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the Ferry Building, walk north along the Embarcadero for about 10-15 minutes. The Exploratorium will be on your left at Pier 15. This is a scenic and straightforward walk along the waterfront.
Public Transport

From many points in San Francisco, take Muni's F Market streetcar or E Embarcadero streetcar, which stop directly in front of the Exploratorium at the Embarcadero and Green Street. Alternatively, several Muni bus lines (2, 6, 14, 21, 31) and Metro Rail lines (J, K, L, M, T, N) stop within walking distance. A single ride on Muni costs $3.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout San Francisco. A short ride from Union Square to the Exploratorium typically costs between $14 and $18, depending on traffic. Be sure to specify 'Exploratorium, Pier 15' as your destination.
Parking

While the Exploratorium doesn't have its own dedicated parking, several public parking facilities are nearby. The Exploratorium partners with SP+ to offer a discount at the Pier 15 parking lot. Use the payment kiosk in the parking lot to pay and enter discount code 4302100. Metered parking is also available along the Embarcadero and on side streets. Parking rates vary, but expect to pay around $32 for 3 hours.

Discover more about Exploratorium

The Exploratorium is more than just a museum; it's a dynamic learning laboratory where curiosity is sparked and discoveries are made. Founded in 1969 by Frank Oppenheimer, the Exploratorium broke the mold of traditional science museums by offering hands-on, interactive exhibits that encourage visitors to engage directly with scientific phenomena.Located on Pier 15 along San Francisco's Embarcadero, the Exploratorium boasts over 600 exhibits covering a wide range of topics, from physics and biology to art and human perception. Visitors can touch a tornado, explore microscopic life, and play with light and sound, all while learning about the underlying scientific principles. The museum also hosts the Tactile Dome, a unique experience where visitors navigate through total darkness using only their sense of touch.The Exploratorium is not just for kids; it also offers the 'After Dark' program on Thursday nights for adults. This popular event features live music, cocktails, and thought-provoking discussions, all set against the backdrop of the museum's interactive exhibits. The Exploratorium's commitment to education extends beyond its walls through global initiatives and teacher training programs.Whether you're a science enthusiast or simply looking for a fun and engaging experience, the Exploratorium offers something for everyone. It's a place where curiosity is celebrated, and learning is an adventure.