Museums & Learning

Exploratorium

🏆Staff Pick🌧️Rainy Day Hero🎒School-Age Favorite
Embarcadero
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About This Spot

A world-class hands-on science museum on the Embarcadero. Over 650 interactive exhibits that make science genuinely fun for all ages. The Tactile Dome (total darkness maze) is unforgettable for older kids.

What to Expect

🚼Stroller Friendly
💳Paid Activity
🏠Indoor Space

Parent Tips

💡

Buy tickets online to skip the line. The water exhibits on the bay side are amazing but kids WILL get wet. Allow 3+ hours. Membership pays for itself in 2 visits.

Local Insider Tips

•Buy tickets online in advance to skip entry lines
•Head to water exhibits first while kids are dry - they WILL get soaked
•Tactile Dome requires separate reservation and is amazing for ages 7+
•Bring extra clothes for water play areas and fog bridge
•Thursday night 18+ hours are great for parents to visit kid-free
•Members get free admission plus special events and early access

Family Reviews

E

"Mind-blowing science that actually makes sense to kids. The Tactile Dome is unforgettable for older kids - pure sensory adventure."

— Embarcadero parent

S

"650+ exhibits means there's something amazing for every age. Kids get soaked at the fog bridge but it's worth it!"

— SF parent

L

"Membership pays for itself in 2 visits. We come monthly and still discover new exhibits every time."

— Local parent

Quick Info

Hours

Wed–Sun 10 AM–5 PM, Thu 6–10 PM (18+ only)

Neighborhood

Embarcadero

Category

Museums & Learning

Phone

(415) 528-4444

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