Exploratorium: Where Science Comes Alive
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
- +1415-528-4444
- Visit website
- 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
Local tips
- 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.
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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