Exploratorium Tours

Exploratorium showing interior views as well as a small group of people
Exploratorium featuring interior views
Exploratorium which includes interior views
Exploratorium featuring interior views
Exploratorium showing industrial elements and interior views


Use all your senses as you explore science through dozens of interactive exhibits at San Francisco’s famous museum on Pier 15.

The Exploratorium makes learning fun. Walk through its exhibits and discover the wonders of science, from fog machines to clock simulators. A regular rotation of temporary exhibits makes the museum a new adventure every time you visit. Check out the Exploratorium’s six galleries, each focused on a specific theme.

Learn about weather patterns in the Fisher Bay Observatory Gallery on the museum’s upper level. Find out why San Francisco gets so foggy and see current weather forecasts for regions around the world.

Become acquainted with living things both great and small in the East Gallery, located in the back of the Exploratorium. See live organisms under microscopes and learn all about California’s giant redwood trees.

In the Bechtel Central Gallery, immerse yourself in the study of sound and vision. Capture your shadow in the Shadow Room or measure the sound you create as you walk on gravel.

Work with your hands in the South Gallery, also known as Tinkerville. Make creations with magnets and learn how a clock works.

Make your way to the West Gallery, which focuses on human emotions and behavior. Explore facial expression recognition and join a group think table.

Find the Exploratorium at Pier 15 on the Embarcadero. This part of San Francisco, which snakes along the eastern waterfront, is filled with things to do and see. Within minutes, reach other tourist destinations such as Fisherman’s Wharf, Coit Tower, the Ferry Building and more. Discover dozens of restaurants, shops and other entertainment destinations.

Visit the Exploratorium any day of the week except Monday. Adults are invited to After Dark, a special program on Thursday nights for visitors over the age of 18.

Pay your admission at the Exploratorium’s front desk. For a quintessential San Francisco experience, take a streetcar to the stop right in front of the building. Drive in and park your car at the Levi's Plaza Garage or Embarcadero Center.

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Reviews of Exploratorium

4.5
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
314
5 - Excellent 62%
4 - Good
142
4 - Good 28%
3 - Okay
38
3 - Okay 8%
2 - Disappointing
4
2 - Disappointing 1%
1 - Terrible
6
1 - Terrible 1%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Go on Thursday night!

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Fansastic. Allow at least 2 days so you don't get over stimulated. It is huge with lots to see and experience.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Plan to go as soon as they open! They close at 5 pm and if you don't go early there won't be enough time to experience all of the exhibits.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

There are so many things to do that you cannot do everything in one visit. It is a wonderful place for kids, but not JUST for kids. We are 3 senior citizens and had a great time. It is not too expensive and there are not "hidden costs" once inside.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Very interesting for the whole family.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Great place for kids!!!

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Exploratorium

Hyatt Regency San Francisco

Hyatt Regency San Francisco

4 out of 5
5 Embarcadero Center, San Francisco, CA
Hyatt Regency San Francisco
Hilton San Francisco Financial District

Hilton San Francisco Financial District

4 out of 5
750 Kearny St, San Francisco, CA
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf

Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf

4 out of 5
2500 Mason St, San Francisco, CA
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

3.5 out of 5
1500 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco

Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco

4 out of 5
424 Clay St, San Francisco, CA
Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco
Fairmont San Francisco

Fairmont San Francisco

5 out of 5
950 Mason Street Atop Nob Hill, San Francisco, CA
Fairmont San Francisco
Chancellor Hotel on Union Square

Chancellor Hotel on Union Square

3.5 out of 5
433 Powell St, San Francisco, CA
Chancellor Hotel on Union Square
Taj Campton Place

Taj Campton Place

5 out of 5
340 Stockton St, San Francisco, CA
Taj Campton Place
Omni San Francisco Hotel

Omni San Francisco Hotel

4.5 out of 5
500 California St, San Francisco, CA
Omni San Francisco Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Exploratorium

At the Exploratorium in San Francisco, immerse yourself in an engaging museum experience filled with interactive exhibits and major attractions. Enjoy outdoor activities along the scenic waterfront, explore nearby shopping options, and catch a theater performance. This vibrant area combines science, art, and innovative experiences, making it a must-visit destination for tourists looking to discover the city's creative spirit.

Shopping

The nearest shopping destination is Ghirardelli Square, just 1.6km away, offering a mix of entertainment and family-friendly vibes. Nearby, Boudin Bakery and Winery Collective, both also 1.6km away, provide unique gifts and local flavors to take home.

Recreation

Oracle Park, a vibrant sports stadium, offers thrilling game days and lively activities just 3.2km from the Exploratorium. For music lovers, the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium, also 3.2km away, provides an exciting atmosphere with various concerts. Enjoy the outdoors at Presidio Golf Course, located 4.8km away, perfect for a relaxing round of golf.

Adventure

The Union Square Ice Rink, located 1.6km from the Exploratorium, offers a delightful skating experience in a vibrant urban setting. For outdoor enthusiasts, Perimeter Road, 6.4km away, provides scenic views, while the Coastal Trail, 9.7km distant, invites hikers to explore breathtaking landscapes.

Nightlife

Experience the romance and culture at the Orpheum Theatre and War Memorial Opera House, both 3.2km from the Exploratorium. For a family-friendly vibe, enjoy the whimsical San Francisco Carousel, located just 1.4km away, perfect for a delightful evening with loved ones.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Exploratorium

When visiting the Exploratorium in San Francisco, you’ll find a vibrant mix of street life, urban parks, and art museums that cater to culture enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. Explore nearby attractions like the Embarcadero Center and discover local hotspots, ensuring a well-rounded experience. Don't forget to check out options for hotels close to the Exploratorium to make your stay even more convenient and enjoyable.

  • Pier 39: Experience the lively atmosphere of Pier 39, just 1.4km from the Exploratorium. Enjoy stunning bay views, a variety of restaurants, street performers, and playful sea lions basking on the docks, creating a perfect blend of urban charm and scenic beauty.
  • Moscone Convention Center: Located 1.6km away, Moscone Convention Center is a hub for business and innovation. While primarily an event venue, its architectural design and frequent exhibitions make it an interesting stop for those curious about the contemporary meeting space.
  • Alcatraz Island: Just 3.2km from the Exploratorium, Alcatraz Island offers a unique outdoor experience. Explore the infamous former prison, enjoy guided tours, and take in breathtaking views of the San Francisco skyline from this historic site.

Best time to go to Exploratorium

The best time to visit Exploratorium can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Exploratorium falls in September, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Exploratorium falls in December, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January51.4°F (10.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
February52.2°F (11.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March53.4°F (11.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
April55.8°F (13.2°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May58.1°F (14.5°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June62.1°F (16.7°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
July63.1°F (17.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
August64.2°F (17.9°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
September64.9°F (18.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly High
October62.6°F (17.0°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly High
November56.1°F (13.4°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December51.3°F (10.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Exploratorium

For a budget-friendly trip to the Exploratorium in San Francisco, consider visiting in February or from November to December when accommodation prices drop. Fridays are the most affordable days to book, while Tuesdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia to compare room rates and customize your search based on your budget. Look for package deals that combine hotel stays with flights and activities for additional savings. Also, take advantage of public transport options to explore the city economically.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Exploratorium are February and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August to October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Exploratorium is Friday. The most expensive day to stay around Exploratorium is Tuesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to customize your options based on your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, be sure to sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You have the opportunity to save money by combining your hotel stay at the Exploratorium with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

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