Discover the Wonders of Science at the Exploratorium
Visit Details
ADDRESS
Pier 15, San Francisco, California 94111
DISTANCE FROM HOTEL
1.5 mile
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The Exploratorium is more than a museum—it’s a gateway to curiosity, science, and art, located at Pier 15 along San Francisco’s Embarcadero waterfront, between Pier 39 and the Ferry Building. Just a short ride from Hotel Nikko, this iconic attraction features hundreds of interactive exhibits across six indoor and outdoor galleries, inviting exploration of phenomena from living cells and cosmic rays to bubbles, electricity, and human behavior. Visitors can also tour the Tactile Dome, observe how exhibits are designed in the on-site shop, and enjoy dining with stunning Bay views. Accessible by public transit and with ample parking nearby, the Exploratorium is a must-see destination for visitors of all ages who appreciate hands-on learning and play.
Plan Your Visit
Prices
Varies by merchant, restaurant, and entertainment venue.
Hours
Wednesday - 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday - 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Friday - 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday - 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday - 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Events
- Napa Vally Wine Tour
- 1 Day Big Bus Tour
Activities
- Exploratorium General Admission Ticket
- San Francisco CityPASS
- Exploratorium Admission Ticket - After Dark Thursday Evenings (ages 18+)
- Go City: San Francisco Explorer Pass - Choose 2, 3, 4 or 5 Attractions
What about accessibility? - The Exploratorium is fully wheelchair accessible. We can also lend wheelchairs to visitors who need them. We have tactile maps for blind and visually impaired visitors. You can pick one up at the Information Desk, located just past the ticket scanning station. For more information, visit Accessibility. |
What should I wear?- You'll want to wear comfortable clothes. We recommend layers, so that you're ready for whatever San Francisco weather comes your way—sun, fog, or a chilly ocean breeze. Comfortable shoes are a must. The Exploratorium campus covers 3.3 acres, so expect to do plenty of walking. Don't worry if your shoes do turn unfriendly, though; we have bandages at our First Aid station. | What can I do with my bag/coat/stuff? - There are coin-operated lockers just past the ticket scanning station (small) and outside the Information Desk (large). Small lockers are 10"w x 14"h x 14"d; large lockers are 23.5"w x 29"h x 23"d. |
What about food? - There are two museum dining areas—the Seismic Joint Café, which faces the outdoor plaza, and Seaglass Restaurant in the Bay Observatory. Both feature seasonable and sustainable cuisine prepared under the auspices of acclaimed San Francisco chef Loretta Keller.
Know Before You Go
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