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Exploratorium

Write a Review San Francisco, California All ages Verified•Science Museum

Published October 2026. Editorial oversight by James Morgan. AI-assisted, human-edited. Our editorial standards

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.

Who it's for

All ages

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

Get DirectionsVisit Website

This attraction has been claimed and verified.

Last updated 10/17/2026

Exploratorium Reviews

Frequently asked questions

  • Is the Exploratorium worth visiting?

    The Exploratorium is an innovative public learning laboratory based in San Francisco, offering interactive experiences where visitors can explore science, art, and human perception. It is rated as the #1 museum in San Francisco and encourages visitors of all ages to interact with its diverse range of exhibits.

  • What are the opening hours at Exploratorium?

    The Exploratorium is currently closed. Please check the official website for date-specific hours before planning your visit.

  • Is Exploratorium suitable for young children, and what ages is it best for?

    The Exploratorium is suitable for all ages, encouraging visitors of all ages to interact with its diverse range of exhibits.

  • Where is the Exploratorium located?

    The Exploratorium is located at Pier 15, The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94111, in San Francisco, California.

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