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United States/Things to Do in San Francisco, with kids

Exploratorium (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is Exploratorium?

95%Kids-Friendly
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What makes it 95% Kids-Friendly: Children up to 12 can touch most displays, build in the Tinkering Studio, and watch explainer shows; discounted youth tickets, stroller parking, and many restrooms simplify logistics.

Google
Reviews4.7/ 5
(from 8,324 reviews)
Discovering Wonders: Exploring the Exploratorium in San Francisco! #sanfrancisco #museum #familytime
15 min
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Discovering Wonders: Exploring the Exploratorium in San Francisco! #sanfrancisco #museum #familytime
2.4K views • 1 year ago
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 • 2 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
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Positives:

  • Hands-on learning: Over 400 exhibits let kids touch and experiment with science concepts.
  • Stroller-friendly: All galleries welcome strollers and free loaners are available at the Info Desk.
  • Free entry for toddlers: Kids 3 and under enter free, so your youngest can join at no cost.

Challenges:

  • Crowds and wait times: Popular exhibits can form lines, especially on weekends and holidays.
  • Sensory overload: Bright lights and loud demos may overwhelm very young children—plan quiet breaks.
  • Extra exhibit fees: Special experiences like the Tactile Dome need advance tickets and extra cost.
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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 with kids?

  1. Hands-on exhibits let kids experiment with light, sound, and motion.
  2. Under 4 free, 4–17 at youth price, adults at standard rate.
  3. Indoor galleries and outdoor plaza offer varied play and learning.
  4. Strollers, rest areas, and breastfeeding spaces keep families comfortable.
  5. Interactive Explainers guide demos and answer kids’ questions.

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Gives time to explore key hands-on exhibits, take breaks, and try outdoor activities without rushing.

(View Exploratorium on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in Exploratorium

Colored Shadows & Soap Film Painting:

Chase and color your own shadows or paint with giant soap bubbles.

Tip: Visit early to avoid lines and let kids explore freely.

Spinning Sand Table:

Scoop and swirl sand on a rotating table to create colorful patterns.

Tip: Have older kids experiment with different speeds to learn about centrifugal force.

Living Systems Gallery:

Observe live sea creatures under mobile microscopes and pump air into algae tanks.

Tip: Ask Explainers for a demo to see tiny details come to life.

Tinkering Studio for Kids:

Build block structures, test them on a shaking table, or play with a giant slinky treadmill.

Tip: Wear play clothes—some projects involve glue and paint.

Outdoor Chain Bikes & Bridge-Building:

Pedal a group bike, build simple bridge models, or play musical benches.

Tip: Use this as a fresh-air break between indoor galleries.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Exploratorium

  1. Buy tickets online: Reserve general admission online to skip the main ticket line.
  2. Start early: Arrive at opening time for cooler temperatures and shorter lines.
  3. Alternate indoor/outdoor: Use outdoor plaza exhibits to give kids fresh air between galleries.
🏖️ 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)?

Coastal fog is common—bring a light jacket. Mornings usually have fewer crowds. Summer weekends fill up fast—plan ahead.

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

Explore These Activities

Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Adult ticket (2)USD 79.98
Youth ticket (age 4–17)USD 29.95
Child ticket (under 4)USD 0
Total EstimatedUSD 109.93

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$ 39.99
Book on GetYourGuide

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Average price

US$ 39.99
Book on GetYourGuide
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