Location
Pier 15
San Francisco, CA 94111
Neighborhood(s)
Embarcadero
Telephone
(415) 528-4444
Website
http://www.exploratorium.eduDays and Hours Of Operation
Tues–Sun 10am–5pm, Wed until 10pm, 6pm–10pm for ages 18+, closed Mondays
Description
The Exploratorium is now at Pier 15 along the Embarcadero! Some call it a mad scientist's playpen. Others say it's the wildest art show in town. Either way, the Exploratorium is like no place you've been before.
Expand your mind and ignite your imagination with interactive exhibits, experiments, and experiences. You can blow bubbles, turn knobs, build bridges, push buttons, connect wires, create images, flip switches, make rainbows, make patterns in sand and smoke, and catch shadows.
The Tactile Dome: Surround yourself with amazing textures as you climb, crawl, and slide through a pitch dark labyrinth. There is an additional charge, and the Tactile Dome can be reserved for parties. Advance reservations recommended; call (415) 561-0362.
The Exploratorium has an outstanding film program. Films are chosen in conjunction with exhibits and events and often, the filmmakers are involved and attend the screenings. Films are free with museum admission.
Stop by the the Tinkering Studio to slow down, become deeply engaged in an investigation of scientific phenomena, and make something.
Classes:
Sign up the brood for Family Investigation workshops for cow's eye and heart dissections and other hands-on explorations. This is for families with children ages 7 and up. Limited to 2 children per adult.
The Girls Science Institute offers multi-day workshops in various scientific discplines for girls ages 9 to 11. Hands-on activities model the work of women who made significant historical contributions to their fields.
Camps:
Day camps allow kids ages 5 to 14 to use a mix of science activities, art projects, group games, and exploration of exhibit collections. Camps are offered during the summer and on school holidays throughout the year.
*****THE EXPLORATORIUM IS NOT OFFERING WINTER, SPRING OR SUMMER CAMPS IN 2013 DUE TO ITS MOVE TO A NEW LOCATION.*****
Cost
$20–$25 per adult, $15–$19 ages 6 to 17 and teachers/students/seniors. Children 5 and under are FREE.
Languages Spoken
English, Spanish, Cantonese
Accessibility
Yes
Getting There
Difficult street parking. Paid lots available nearby.
Muni: F Market, 2, 6, 14, 21, 31
SFKids Tips
*Specialty classes are offered to members only. If you already are a member and don't know about these classes, sign up for the Exploratorium's member newsletter that announces all the special programs.
*Members can have birthday parties at the Exploratorium. The Tactile Dome birthday party feature is immensely popular. Book early!
*There is a parking lot located on the Lyon Street side of the museum.
*Take a picnic along and feed the birds at the east side of the park.
*The Exploratorium is fully wheelchair accessible.
*Track the move to Pier 15 in 2013 here.