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United States/Things to Do in San Francisco, couple trip

Exploratorium (couple trip)

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How Couple-Friendly is Exploratorium?

82%Couple-Friendly
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What makes it 82% Couple-Friendly: Couples enjoy hands-on galleries plus the 18+ Thursday After Dark with cocktails and DJs, yet the busy, bright halls limit privacy, so the outing feels lively rather than romantic.

Google
Reviews4.7/ 5
(from 8,324 reviews)
Exploring San Francisco Exploratorium Great Animal Orchestra at Pier 15
8 min
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Exploring San Francisco Exploratorium Great Animal Orchestra at Pier 15
9K views • 2 years ago
Exploring Exploratorium in San Francisco, California USA Walking Tour #exploratorium #sanfrancisco
14 min
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Exploring Exploratorium in San Francisco, California USA Walking Tour #exploratorium #sanfrancisco
6.9K views • 3 years ago
Discovering San Francisco's Exploratorium| Full Tour in 4k
79 min
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Discovering San Francisco's Exploratorium| Full Tour in 4k
2.1K views • 1 year ago
Discovering Wonders: Exploring the Exploratorium in San Francisco! #sanfrancisco #museum #familytime
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Discovering Wonders: Exploring the Exploratorium in San Francisco! #sanfrancisco #museum #familytime
2.4K views • 1 year ago

Positives:

  • Engaging Date Activity: Interactive exhibits spark conversation and teamwork.
  • Waterfront Setting: Harbor views enhance the museum experience and photo ops.

Challenges:

  • Weekend Crowds: Busy weekends may mean lines; plan for quieter weekdays or early arrival.
  • Fog Bridge Moisture: You may get damp from mist bursts—wear quick-dry layers.
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🏖️ Explore Exploratorium with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Exploratorium. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Exploratorium?

  • A museum of science, art and human perception on Pier 15 along San Francisco’s Embarcadero
  • Houses over 700 in-house designed interactive exhibits illustrating fundamental scientific phenomena
  • Occupies a renovated waterfront pier building that melds industrial character with modern gallery spaces

What is so special about Exploratorium for couple trip?

  1. Explore 700+ hands-on science exhibits together
  2. Join adult-only After Dark events with cocktails and DJs
  3. Walk through Fujiko Nakaya’s misty Fog Bridge
  4. Enjoy waterfront dining and bay views at Seaglass
  5. Challenge yourselves in the pitch-dark Tactile Dome

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Allows time for interactive exhibits, waterfront dining, and the Tactile Dome at a relaxed pace.

(View Exploratorium on Map)

Couple-Friendly Activities in Exploratorium

After Dark:

Adult-only evening event with cocktails, DJs, and full access to 700+ exhibits.

Tip: Book tickets online in advance for Thursday nights; arrive early to get a drink before the crowd.

Fog Bridge:

Experience half-hour bursts of mist on Fujiko Nakaya’s 150-ft outdoor installation.

Tip: Visit midday when mist cycles run every 30 minutes; bring a lightweight layer to dry off quickly.

Bay Observatory Gallery:

360° waterfront views and real-time tide and cloud displays.

Tip: Head upstairs right after entry for the clearest views before lines form.

Seaglass Restaurant:

Waterside dining with seafood, salads, and cocktails overlooking the bay.

Tip: Reserve a window table in advance; order a cocktail flight to sample local spirits.

Tactile Dome:

Navigate a pitch-black maze using only touch for a shared sensory challenge.

Tip: Reserve your slot online early; wear comfortable clothing and shoes.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Exploratorium

  1. Buy Tickets Online: Skip the ticket line by purchasing general admission or After Dark passes in advance.
  2. Reserve in Advance: Book Tactile Dome and Seaglass reservations early to secure preferred times.
🏖️ Tour Exploratorium like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Exploratorium. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Exploratorium

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David Phem (Dave Psilocin)

David Phem (Dave Psilocin)

Sep 2025

Very great experience since the new location has been set in 2013. Last experience was at the old location in 2007 and alot has changed. New level of floors with a great restaurant that had fast and great service. New experience on the A.I. section and also the biology and insect area was very interesting. They still have some old optical illusion rooms and its still a blast to experience every si...

Donnie Turjacanin

Donnie Turjacanin

Aug 2025

We came on a Sunday afternoon. Great and fun place for children and adults. So many activities everywhere you look. Family Vibes. Live shows. Cafes. Staff available to help. Outside exhibits. Rooftop exhibit. Always recommend to others. Spend about 4 hours there but could do 5 to see more exhibits.

Reuben Reyes

Reuben Reyes

Aug 2025

If you are a science geek like me, you will love this place! The inside and outside of this place has a plethora of interactive exhibits for all ages. The hands on stations will stimulate your senses and expand your mind. A great place to learn about science, the environment, and engineering. I enjoyed all aspects of this learning place and walked out with an enlightened big smile.

Florian Jacquin

Florian Jacquin

Jul 2025

I had such a fun time at the Exploratorium! It’s not your typical museum — everything is hands-on and really makes you think (and play). I enjoyed exploring the many interactive exhibits and learning new things in a playful way. The views from the Bay Observatory Terrace are also a nice bonus. It’s a great spot to explore whether you’re on your own, with friends, or family. The entry price feels ...

Wang Guofeng Studio

Wang Guofeng Studio

Jun 2025

So many fun, interactive and hands-on activities! My son turned into a happy little scientist for hours. A fantastic place to spark curiosity, great for both kids and adults, definitely worth visiting a few times a year.

When is the best time to visit Exploratorium (San Francisco, United States)?

Summer fog can obscure bay views—plan outdoor exhibits early in the afternoon. After Dark runs year-round on Thursdays; check the calendar for special themes.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to San Francisco on Trip.com

Explore These Activities

Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)

ItemCost (Approx.)
General admission for 2USD 79.98
Tactile Dome add-onUSD 30
Light meal at SeaglassUSD 60
Total EstimatedUSD 169.98

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of Exploratorium

Address: Pier 15 Embarcadero at, Green St, San Francisco, CA 94111, USA

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Looking for other Things to Do besides Exploratorium (San Francisco)?

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About Exploratorium

Opening Hours

Monday:Closed
Tuesday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, 6:00 – 10:00 PM
Friday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday:12:00 – 5:00 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+1 415-528-4444

Average price

US$ 39.91
Book on GetYourGuide

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Average price

US$ 39.91
Book on GetYourGuide
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