Who it's for
All ages
Exploratorium
Published June 2026. Editorial oversight by James Morgan. AI-assisted, human-edited. Our editorial standards
Image credits
- Photo by Patrick Nouhailler's… via Wikimedia Commons, CC-BY-SA-3.0
- Photo by Rhododendrites via Wikimedia Commons, CC-BY-SA-4.0
About Exploratorium
Touch, tinker, and experiment at San Francisco's hands-on laboratory of science, art, and human perception.
The Exploratorium is a public learning laboratory where the exhibits are meant to be poked, pulled, and played with.
What you'll see and do - Engage with hands-on exhibits exploring science, art, and human perception - Discover displays designed to reward curiosity at any age - Drop in on special themed evenings and family-friendly activities - Experience a museum repeatedly rated San Francisco's number one
Attraction Details
Opening Times
- MondayClosed
- Tuesday10 AM to 5 PM
- Wednesday10 AM to 5 PM
- Thursday10 AM to 5 PM, 6 to 10 PM
- Friday10 AM to 5 PM
- Saturday10 AM to 5 PM
- Sunday12 to 5 PM
Events at Exploratorium
Life in Space
June 11–Sept 13
Explore the science of how life might survive in the extreme conditions beyond Earth.
After Dark Thursday Nights (18+)
Special evening hours for adults 18 and over.
Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Fri, May 1 - Sun, May 31 2026
Profiles of historic and contemporary scientists, innovators, activists, and artists are featured throughout the museum.
Storytime Science for Kids: Familiar Favorites
Sat, May 23 2026
A storybook read-aloud followed by a related activity geared toward young children and their grown-ups.
Resonance: Circuit des Yeux
Thu, May 28 2026
Haley Fohr of Circuit des Yeux and Alan Sparhawk present Wordless Music for solo voice.
Plan Your Visit
Family-tested advice for a smoother day at Exploratorium.
Getting there
Exploratorium is at Pier 15, The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94111. Check the operator's site for parking and transit options.
Pro tip
Pack snacks, refillable water bottles and a portable charger to keep the day running smoothly.
Directions
Exploratorium
Pier 15, The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94111
This attraction has been claimed and verified.
Last updated 6/23/2026
Exploratorium Reviews
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