When are you open?
We are open 10a.m.–5p.m. Tuesday thru Sunday, and closed Mondays (except
certain holidays).
What does it cost?
Admission is $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, youth, and students,
$10 for kids under 12, free for kids under 3. Members get in free.
How do I get there?
See Getting Here for detailed directions
by car, by bike, and by public transportation. You can also call
for recorded directions: (415) 561-0399.
Where can I park?
There is ample free parking available in the lot adjacent to the
museum. Please do not leave valuables in your car, here or anywhere
else in San Francisco.
When Is Free Day?
Admission is free for all visitors on the first Wednesday of each
month. Be forewarned that Free Day can become quite crowded. If you enjoy
relative peace and quiet, you might be happier visiting on a different
day. (Groups of 10 or more must make reservations to come on Free
Day.)
What’s the deal with the Tactile Dome?
The Tactile Dome is a physical journey through total darkness.
You navigate your way through this sensory environment entirely
by touch—sometimes walking, sometimes crawling or even sliding.
Most people find it to be an amazing experience, but it’s not for
everyone. You must be at least 7 years old, and reservations are
required.
What about food?
The Exploratorium Café is open whenever the museum
is open. There is also a coffee and snack cart at the front entrance.
Is this a kids’ museum?
Yes and no. Many of our exhibits can be enjoyed by visitors of
all ages, but some exhibits are best appreciated by adults.
Is there anything here for toddlers?
Certain of our exhibits involving color, bubbles, light, and shadow
are big hits with toddlers and younger children. Strollers are available on a first-come, first-serve
basis.
Is this the place with the planetarium/aquarium?
No. You may be confusing us with the California Academy
of Sciences, another San Francisco museum.
What about accessibility?
The Exploratorium is fully wheelchair accessible. We can also
lend wheelchairs to visitors who need them.
Can you check my bag/coat/stuff?
We don’t have a coat or luggage check, but there are lockers
available for a minimal fee. The largest lockers can accommodate
large bags and luggage, with dimensions of up to about 30" x 22"
x 12" (76cm x 56cm x 30cm).
What else can I do nearby?
Plenty. Picnic on the charming adjoining grounds at the Palace
of Fine Arts. Walk along the beach at the gorgeous Crissy Field
wetland in the Presidio. Visit the Wave Organ or the Outdoor Exploratorium.
Shop or dine on nearby Chestnut Street. You can definitely make
a day of it here.
Find Us with Google Maps
Palace of Fine Arts,
3601 Lyon Street, San Francisco, CA 94123
About Us
Contact Us
Reservations, our Store, and more
General Information Line
(415) EXP-LORE
(415) 561-0360
TTY General Info (for hearing impaired):
(415) 353-0400
Directions to the Museum (recording):
(415) 561-0399
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© 2012 Exploratorium |
The museum of science, art and human perception
At the Palace of Fine Arts
3601 Lyon Street, San Francisco, CA 94123
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