Exploratorium
San Francisco, California, US
The Exploratorium on San Francisco’s Pier 15 is an interactive science and perception museum that invites hands‑on exploration. Ranked third among the city’s attractions, it offers a playful way to engage with physics, biology and art for visitors of any age.
Why choose Exploratorium
You’ll leave with a fresh sense of curiosity that a traditional gallery can’t match, because every exhibit invites you to touch, tinker, and experiment. The waterfront setting adds a breezy backdrop that makes learning feel like an adventure.
Best for: Families · Science lovers · First-timers
Start your Embarcadero morning at the Exploratorium
Begin here to spark curiosity, then stroll to nearby sights for a relaxed half‑day along the waterfront.
- Morning — Exploratorium
- 11:00 — Ferry Building
- Afternoon — Coit Tower
Visit tips
- Arrive early for the Tactile Dome; it fills up quickly.
- Explore the outdoor waterfront exhibits for the best photo opportunities.
- Arrive early; afternoons can get busy after school hours.
- Buy tickets online to skip the door line and plan about 2–3 hours.
Plan your visit
- Recommended duration: 2–3 hours — allow extra time for demos
- Best time of day: Early morning, before 10:30 — beat the school‑hour crowds
- Hours: 10:00–17:00 (closed Monday) — Closed on Mondays; open weekdays 10 am–5 pm
- Entry: $39.95 — Entry fee $39.95 includes all exhibits
- Booking: not required — Buy tickets online to skip the door line
- Category: museum
- Rated 4.6 by 3621 reviewers
- Tags: interactive exhibits, family friendly, waterfront location
Nearby attractions
- PIER 39 — attraction, 17 min walk
- Ferry Building — market, 10 min walk
- Chinatown San Francisco — attraction, 16 min walk
- Fog Harbor Fish House — restaurant, 17 min walk
- Coit Tower — attraction, 9 min walk
- Cable Car Museum — attraction, 18 min walk
More things to do in San Francisco
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