Exploratorium
About
Iconic Hands-On Science Museum at Pier 15
Exploratorium at Pier 15 (Embarcadero at Green Street) is San Francisco's hands-on science museum founded by physicist Frank Oppenheimer in 1969. 600+ interactive exhibits across 6 indoor galleries plus outdoor Bay-front exhibits.
Programs and Exhibits
Multi-gallery + waterfront exhibits. Programs include:
- Tinkering Studio (DIY making)
- Living Systems gallery
- Outdoor Bay observatory
- After Dark (adult-only Thursday evenings)
- Birthday parties (private after-hours)
- Summer camps
- Field trips
- Educator workshops
- Tactile Dome (touch-only sensory experience)
What's Included
- 600+ interactive exhibits
- 6 themed indoor galleries
- Outdoor Bay observatory exhibits (free during museum closure days)
- Tactile Dome (separate ticket)
- Birthday packages with private space
- Sensory-friendly hours
- Member benefits and reciprocal admission
Experience
Suits SF Bay Area families wanting top-tier hands-on science institution where kids can touch every exhibit. Tinkering Studio's open-ended making approach is unmatched at most museums.