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Location
Best time
Visit during off-peak hours (avoid 11am-1:30pm) when school groups are present, or consider Exploratorium After Dark on Thursday evenings for a quieter, adult-focused experience with special programming and cultural events
Visitor tip
Bring a friend or visit with family since many exhibits are designed for two people to interact together. Also bring small items like stickers or trinkets to contribute to the community sharing exhibit
Visitor tip
Young children (2+ years) will find hands-on activities throughout, and there are outdoor exhibits on the waterfront. The museum allows re-entry with a stamp, so you can take breaks and explore the Pier 15/17 waterfront area
About Exploratorium
Hands-on science museum. Hundreds of interactive, educational exhibits & activities illustrating scientific principles.
What visitors say
The Exploratorium in San Francisco has been around since 1969, the original home was at the Palace of Fine Arts but moved to its current location at Pier 15 and Pier 17 on San Francisco’s waterfront since 2013. This place is perfect…
An incredible amount of exhibits ranging from artistic to mathematical. I'm an adult and even I had lots of fun. Some of the exhibits require a second person so it might be a good idea to bring a friend if able. I had loads of fun…
We went to the Lunar After Dark edition on a Thursday night and honestly, an 18+ museum night is just brilliant. Having the space without children running about meant we could properly explore, linger, and actually play with the…
From 8,443 Google reviews Read all reviews
Did You Know?
- The Exploratorium was founded in 1969 at the Palace of Fine Arts before relocating to its current waterfront location at Pier 15 and Pier 17 in 2013
- The museum features hundreds of interactive exhibits covering diverse scientific disciplines including physics, biology, the five senses, and newly added AI exhibits
- The Exploratorium offers a specialized adult-only program called 'Exploratorium After Dark' that includes evening hours, special programming, bar service, and themed events like the 'Lunar After Dark edition'
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