Exploratorium

Science museum · North Waterfront

5

@afar

"Ask anyone you know who grew up in the Bay Area about the Exploratorium, and they’ll likely be able to share stories of class trips and seeing their hair stand on end at an installation about electricity or fun-house mirrors that taughtabout optics and visual perception. This is not, however, a museum simply for kids—though curious kids will definitely be entertained while learning. Instead, its exhibits aim to raise the scientific literacy of visitors of all ages, by providing engaging, amusing, and hands-on experiences. Long housed at the Palace of Fine Arts, the Exploratorium opened in its current, and much larger, space on Piers 15 and 17 in 2013. One advantage of the new waterfront location is the North Gallery and its outdoor spaces, focused on environmental phenomena like the wind, rain, and tides. The completely dark Tactile Dome and the disorienting Monochromatic Room may prove not just the highlights of your visit to the Exploratorium but the most memorable, or at least strangest, moments of your time in San Francisco . Photo by Xavier Sandel/Flickr ."

The Best Things to Do in San Francisco
Photo by Amy Snyder

Pier 15 Embarcadero at, Green St, San Francisco, CA 94111 Get directions

exploratorium.edu
@exploratorium

5 Postcards

See full details

More Places For You

Aziza

Moroccan restaurant · Outer Richmond

Aziza serves up inventive Moroccan fare with Californian flair in a vibrant, inviting space, making it a culinary gem in San Francisco.

28 Postcards

Far East Cafe

Cantonese restaurant · Chinatown

This Chinatown gem offers superb Cantonese and Sichuan cuisine amid stunning old-world decor, making for a vibrant cultural dining experience.

3 Postcards

Taqueria Guadalajara

Mexican restaurant · Cayuga Terrace

Taqueria Guadalajara serves up hefty, flavorful burritos, tacos, and quesadillas in a vibrant setting adorned with Mexican murals, making it a late-night favorite in San Francisco.

5 Postcards

Hoi An 1608 Vietnamese Restaurant

Vietnamese restaurant · Polk Gulch

This cozy Vietnamese eatery serves a tantalizing array of dishes, from comforting pho to delectable garlic noodles, all in a chic, inviting space.

1 Postcard

Taishoken San Francisco

Restaurant · Mission

Tucked in the Mission, this sleek spot serves up irresistible tsukemen—chewy noodles paired with a bold, savory broth—perfect for casual bites or date nights.

14 Postcards

Hilda and Jesse

Restaurant · Russian Hill

Nestled in North Beach, Hilda and Jesse elevates brunch with playful, inventive dishes and a vibrant atmosphere that pairs whimsical decor with creative tasting menus—perfect for a stylish wake-up call any time of day.

23 Postcards

Cellarmaker Brewing Co.

Brewery · South of Market

Contemporary exposed-brick tasting room offering a rotating selection of small-batch brews on tap.

6 Postcards

Eats

Breakfast restaurant · Inner Richmond

Eats is a cozy American café with a farm-to-table twist, serving up hearty brunch favorites like fried chicken sandwiches and French toast amidst a vibrant community atmosphere.

6 Postcards

The Clift Royal Sonesta San Francisco

Hotel · Tenderloin

This chic and historic hotel boasts stylish rooms, a stunning bar with live music, and a prime location just minutes from Union Square.

2 Postcards

20th Century Cafe

Cafe · Civic Center

Step into this chic, retro corner bakery with a cozy vibe, serving delightful Central European pastries and live music—perfect for a quick treat.

11 Postcards