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.

Plan a trip to see Exploratorium

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
The Andrews Hotel
Vinarosa Resort & Spa

Browse tours and tickets to explore Exploratorium

Tours & day trips

See all 300 activities

History & culture

See all 126 activities

Private & custom tours

See all 81 activities

Adventure & outdoor

See all 52 activities

Cruises & boat tours

See all 43 activities

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Exploratorium

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
Hyatt Regency San Francisco

Hyatt Regency San Francisco

4 out of 5
5 Embarcadero Center, San Francisco, CA
Hyatt Regency San Francisco
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
InterContinental Mark Hopkins by IHG

InterContinental Mark Hopkins by IHG

4 out of 5
999 California Street, San Francisco, CA
InterContinental Mark Hopkins by IHG
Fairmont San Francisco

Fairmont San Francisco

5 out of 5
950 Mason Street Atop Nob Hill, San Francisco, CA
Fairmont San Francisco
Omni San Francisco Hotel

Omni San Francisco Hotel

4.5 out of 5
500 California St, San Francisco, CA
Omni San Francisco Hotel
Handlery Union Square Hotel

Handlery Union Square Hotel

3.5 out of 5
351 Geary St, San Francisco, CA
Handlery Union Square Hotel
Hotel Caza Fisherman's Wharf

Hotel Caza Fisherman's Wharf

4 out of 5
1300 Columbus Avenue, San Francisco, CA
Hotel Caza Fisherman's Wharf
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

The Exploratorium, located at Pier 15 in San Francisco, offers a unique blend of hands-on science exhibits and art events suitable for all ages, including adults. Visitors can explore guided tours and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the surrounding area, which features theaters and shopping options. Be sure to check specific dates for special events to enhance your experience at this engaging museum.

Food and drinks

Enjoy breathtaking ocean views and classic cuisine at Cliff House, located 6 miles from the Exploratorium. For a unique brewing experience, visit Anchor Brewing Company, just 3 miles away. Experience craft spirits at St. George Spirits, 5 miles from the Exploratorium, perfect for a fun outing.

Shopping

The nearest shopping spots include Ghirardelli Square, just 1 mile away, offering family-friendly shops and entertainment. Boudin Bakery, also 1 mile away, is perfect for local treats. Public Market Emeryville is 6 miles away, featuring a lively city vibe. If you're up for a drive, check out more local boutiques.

Recreation

At the Chase Center, enjoy the energetic atmosphere of a sports venue just 2 miles from the Exploratorium. The Pacific-Union Club, 0.9 miles away, offers a luxurious retreat for relaxation. For fun and adventure, visit the Yerba Buena Ice Skating Center, only 1 mile away, perfect for ice skating enthusiasts.

Adventure

Union Square Ice Rink offers a thrilling ice-skating experience, located 1 mile from the Exploratorium, perfect for family fun. Take a ride on the iconic Cable Car at Powell & Market, also 1 mile away, for a classic San Francisco adventure. For nature lovers, the Ecology Trail, 2 miles away, provides scenic hiking paths.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near the Exploratorium! Catch a captivating show at the Orpheum Theatre, just 2 miles away, or enjoy a film at Paramount Theatre, 7 miles away. For family fun, visit the San Francisco Carousel, located only 0.9 miles from the Exploratorium.

Find the best attractions near Exploratorium

During your visit to the Exploratorium in San Francisco, immerse yourself in a vibrant mix of culture and outdoor experiences. Discover urban parks and nearby beaches for relaxation, while historic college campuses add a touch of education. Don’t miss landmarks like Union Square and the iconic Transamerica Pyramid. The Exploratorium museum itself offers interactive exhibits that are perfect for families and curious minds alike, making it a must-see attraction in the city.

  • Pier 39: Experience the lively atmosphere at Pier 39, just 0.9 miles from the Exploratorium. Enjoy urban scenery, street performances, and delicious seafood while watching sea lions bask in the sun. The vibrant art installations and friendly crowds make it a perfect spot to unwind.
  • Moscone Convention Center: Located 1 mile from the Exploratorium, the Moscone Convention Center is a hub for business events and conferences. Its modern architecture and spacious layout make it an essential venue for industry professionals and a great place to network.
  • Golden Gate Bridge: A scenic 4-mile journey from the Exploratorium, the iconic Golden Gate Bridge offers breathtaking views and rich cultural history. Walk or bike across this landmark for an unforgettable experience that encapsulates San Francisco's charm.

Best time to go to Exploratorium

Visitor numbers around Exploratorium is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. 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.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
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 Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May58.1°F (14.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
June62.1°F (16.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
July63.1°F (17.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August64.2°F (17.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
September64.9°F (18.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowSlightly High
October62.6°F (17.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowAverage
November56.1°F (13.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December51.3°F (10.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Exploratorium

To save money during your visit to the Exploratorium in San Francisco, consider exploring nearby free attractions like Pier 39, Golden Gate Park, and the Presidio. The ideal months for lower hotel rates are February and November to December, while July to September tends to be pricier. Booking about a month in advance or checking last-minute deals on Expedia can yield savings. Additionally, consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for discounts, and take advantage of Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive offers and cash rewards on future stays.

  • 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 July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Exploratorium about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to customize your options based on your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Exploratorium with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.