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.
Fitzgerald Hotel
Bay Landing San Francisco Airport Hotel
Appellation Healdsburg

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

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
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
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
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
Fairmont San Francisco

Fairmont San Francisco

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

Handlery Union Square Hotel

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

Hyatt Centric Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco

4 out of 5
555 N Point St, San Francisco, CA
Hyatt Centric Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco
Grand Hyatt San Francisco

Grand Hyatt San Francisco

4 out of 5
345 Stockton St, San Francisco, CA
Grand Hyatt San Francisco
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

When visiting the Exploratorium in San Francisco, you can enjoy a variety of activities nearby, including shopping at unique boutiques, exploring engaging exhibits at the museum, and experiencing major attractions in the area. Don't miss out on outdoor experiences that showcase the stunning waterfront and picturesque views, making your trip both exciting and enriching.

Shopping

While visiting the Exploratorium, you can shop at Ghirardelli Square, just 1 mile away, offering a mix of entertainment and family vibes. Nearby, Winery Collective and Boudin Bakery, both 1 mile away, provide unique gifts and delicious treats for your loved ones.

Recreation

Explore the excitement at Oracle Park, where you can catch a game and soak in the vibrant sports atmosphere. For a night out, head to Bill Graham Civic Auditorium for live music and entertainment. Finally, enjoy a round of golf at Presidio Golf Course, surrounded by beautiful outdoor scenery.

Adventure

Experience the Union Square Ice Rink, a festive spot for skating, located 1 mile from the Exploratorium. Enjoy the scenic Ecology Trail, 2 miles away, offering beautiful views and hiking opportunities. For outdoor fun, visit Perimeter Road, situated 4 miles from the Exploratorium, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Nightlife

Experience a vibrant nightlife near the Exploratorium. Catch a show at the Orpheum Theatre or War Memorial Opera House for a dose of culture and romance. For a whimsical outing, take a spin on the San Francisco Carousel, where outdoor vibes meet family fun.

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

Find the best attractions near Exploratorium

While visiting the Exploratorium in San Francisco, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and family-friendly experiences offered in the area. Explore nearby urban parks, and take in the lively street scenes. Don't miss out on local attractions and event venues that showcase the city's rich heritage. With various hotels nearby, your stay will be comfortable as you enjoy the top attractions around the Exploratorium, making it a memorable vacation spot.

  • Pier 39: Experience the lively atmosphere of Pier 39, where you can enjoy stunning waterfront views, dine at various restaurants, and watch sea lions basking in the sun. This bustling jetty is perfect for families and offers a range of shops and entertainment options, creating a fun and friendly ambiance.
  • Moscone Convention Center: Known for its modern architecture and extensive event spaces, the Moscone Convention Center is a hub for conferences and exhibitions. While it primarily serves business needs, its design and accessibility make it a noteworthy stop for those interested in the city's commercial landscape.
  • Alcatraz Island: Venture to Alcatraz Island, famous for its historic prison and captivating stories of escape. This outdoor attraction offers guided tours, breathtaking views of the San Francisco skyline, and a chance to explore the island's unique ecology.

Best time to go to Exploratorium

The best time to visit Exploratorium is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. September is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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

To save money on your visit to the Exploratorium in San Francisco, consider traveling during the off-peak months of February and November to December, when hotel prices are lower. Fridays are typically the least expensive days to stay, while Tuesdays are the most costly. Use Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly options by sorting prices from lowest to highest, and consider package deals that combine hotels, flights, and activities for added savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also provide exclusive discounts and help you earn OneKeyCash for 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 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 narrow down your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. 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.

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