Exploratorium

What to know

Founded in 1969 by physicist and educator Frank Oppenheimer, the Exploratorium was designed as a space where visitors could learn by doing. For decades, it operated out of the Palace of Fine Arts in the Marina district, where it established itself as a pioneer in interactive education. In a significant move in April 2013, the museum relocated to its current home at Piers 15 and 17 along the San Francisco Embarcadero. Today, the museum functions as a massive public learning laboratory. It features more than 600 interactive exhibits spread across six indoor and outdoor galleries, focusing on the intersection of science, technology, and the arts. This commitment to accessibility and innovation extended to the digital realm early on; the Exploratorium launched its website in 1992, making it one of the first 600 websites on the internet. Visitors to the waterfront location can explore a unique mix of human perception and scientific inquiry. The facility is designed to spark curiosity through performances, classes, and demonstrations. To sustain guests during their exploration, the site offers dining options at the on-site café and the Seaglass Restaurant and Bar.

Visitor tips

• Tickets start at $39.95; consider booking in advance to ensure entry.
• The museum is open Thursday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• If you need mobility assistance, wheelchairs are available first-come, first-served at the East Gallery information desk.
• Visit the Seaglass Restaurant and Bar for a drink or meal between gallery explorations.

Nearby context

The Exploratorium is situated at the intersection of the Embarcadero and Green Street, placing it within the Central Embarcadero Piers Historic District. It sits conveniently between the San Francisco Ferry Building and Pier 39, making it a central hub for waterfront walkers.