ntripntrip logo

San Francisco Exploratorium General Admission Ticket

4.7
(152 reviews)
San Francisco Exploratorium General Admission Ticket Gallery Image 1
San Francisco Exploratorium General Admission Ticket Gallery Image 2
San Francisco Exploratorium General Admission Ticket Gallery Image 3
San Francisco Exploratorium General Admission Ticket Gallery Image 4

Bring the whole family to the Exploratorium, now conveniently located on San Francisco’s vibrant Embarcadero at Pier 15, between Fisherman’s Wharf and the Ferry Building. With a full-day general admission ticket, you’re free to discover this hands-on museum at your leisure.Spread over six spacious galleries, the Exploratorium offers a self-guided exploration of interactive exhibits. Investigate the interplay of light, reflection, and bubbles in Gallery 3, and learn about human perception in Gallery 1—where you can delve into the workings of the brain. Tinker with mechanical devices in the Tinkering Studio and explore an entire spectrum of life, from DNA to ecosystems, in Gallery 4.Outside, discover how natural and human forces shape the Bay Area at an open-air gallery, then head to the Bay Observatory for sweeping views of the Bay and the impressive Bay Bridge. It’s an engaging day of fun for visitors of all ages.

Overview

Bring the whole family to the Exploratorium, now conveniently located on San Francisco’s vibrant Embarcadero at Pier 15, between Fisherman’s Wharf and the Ferry Building. With a full-day general admission ticket, you’re free to discover this hands-on museum at your leisure.

Spread over six spacious galleries, the Exploratorium offers a self-guided exploration of interactive exhibits. Investigate the interplay of light, reflection, and bubbles in Gallery 3, and learn about human perception in Gallery 1—where you can delve into the workings of the brain. Tinker with mechanical devices in the Tinkering Studio and explore an entire spectrum of life, from DNA to ecosystems, in Gallery 4.

Outside, discover how natural and human forces shape the Bay Area at an open-air gallery, then head to the Bay Observatory for sweeping views of the Bay and the impressive Bay Bridge. It’s an engaging day of fun for visitors of all ages.

Itinerary

  • Exploratorium

    Kids and adults both will love the Exploratorium in San Francisco! This favorite family attraction boasts a convenient location along the Embarcadero waterfront, between Fisherman’s Wharf and the Ferry Building. Enjoy the vibrant bayside energy of Pier 15, and then head inside the museum with your all-day general admission ticket.

    Admission Included

Location

Meeting Point Map

Address

Pier 15, The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94111, USA

Open Google Map

Experience

Highlights

  • Spend a day with the whole family at this one-of-a-kind museum
  • Enjoy hundreds of fun, immersive, interactive exhibits that engage all the senses for visitors of all ages
  • Learn about physics, music, art, biology, and much more
  • Conveniently located at Pier 15 between the Ferry Building and Fisherman’s Wharf/Pier 39
  • Inclusions

    • SKIP THE LINE Daytime Admission to the Exploratorium

    Exclusions

    • Hotel pickup and drop-off
    • Food and drinks
    • Tactile Dome experience
    • Viator ticket purchases cannot be applied to an annual membership at the museum.
    • After Dark - Thursday Evening Admission (Ages 18+ only)

    Additional Information

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
    • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • All exhibition spaces, the Store, dining areas, and all public restrooms are wheelchair and stroller accessible.
    • A limited number of wheelchairs and strollers are available for loan, free of charge. They are located at the Info Desk on a first-come first-serve basis.
    • Guide dogs and other certified assistance animals are welcome
    • Tactile maps for blind and visually impaired visitors are available upon request.
    • Coin-operated lockers are located just past Ticketing and the Info desk
    • Complimentary museum maps are available in English, Spanish, French, Italian, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, German, Portuguese, Arabic, Japanese, Korean and Filipino.
    • Free admission for children ages 3 and under

    Guide Languages

    • English

    • Spanish

    • French

    • Filipino

    Cancellation Policy

    • A full refund will apply if you cancel more than 24 hours before the activity start time.

    • No refund is possible if you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time.

    Related Attractions

    Explore similar attractions that other travelers have enjoyed. Discover more options to enhance your travel experience

    SF Sightseeing Flex Pass - Asian Art Museum and 15+ option - Image 1

    SF Sightseeing Flex Pass - Asian Art Museum and 15+ optionSF Sightseeing Flex Pass - Asian Art Museum and 15+ option

    5.0(1)
    MuseumsArt Museums

    Customize your vacation itinerary and enjoy the freedom to visit over 15 of San Francisco’s best attractions at up to 60% off. This flex pass allows you to see the sights that interest you most, and save money at the same time. Choose between 2-6 of ...

    $70

    per adult

    From San Francisco: Computer History Museum and Silicon Valley Campus Tour - Image 2

    From San Francisco: Computer History Museum and Silicon Valley Campus TourFrom San Francisco: Computer History Museum and Silicon Valley Campus Tour

    4.5(2)
    MuseumsHistory Museums

    The Silicon Valley tour begins at Meta's headquarters, where you'll have the chance to take a photo with the Meta sign. Next, visit the Googleplex, home to cafes, shops, and art installations. Explore features like volleyball courts and on-site hairc...

    $185

    per adult

    From San Francisco: Computer History Museum and Silicon Valley Campus Tour - Image 3

    From San Francisco: Computer History Museum and Silicon Valley Campus TourFrom San Francisco: Computer History Museum and Silicon Valley Campus Tour

    4.5(2)
    MuseumsHistory Museums

    The Silicon Valley tour begins at Meta's headquarters, where you'll have the chance to take a photo with the Meta sign. Next, visit the Googleplex, home to cafes, shops, and art installations. Explore features like volleyball courts and on-si...

    $183

    per adult

    Cartoon Art Museum: Entry Ticket - Image 4

    Cartoon Art Museum: Entry TicketCartoon Art Museum: Entry Ticket

    4.0(2)
    MuseumsArt Museums

    Putting cartoon art on the pedestal it deserves is what the Cartoon Art Museum in San Francisco does best. With over 7,000 original pieces on display, your tickets to the Cartoon Art Museum offer access to traditional comic strips and...

    $6

    per adult

    Museum of 3D Illusions - Image 5

    Museum of 3D IllusionsMuseum of 3D Illusions

    3.8(4)
    Museums

    Escape reality and immerse yourself in a world of wonder at the **Museum of 3D Illusions** in San Francisco! Discover over 40 mind-bending 3D illusions inspired by art, movies, cartoons, current events, and more. Get your camera ready ...

    $17

    per adult

    Museum of 3D Illusions - Image 6

    Museum of 3D IllusionsMuseum of 3D Illusions

    3.7(6)
    Museums

    Escape reality and immerse yourself in a world of wonder at the **Museum of 3D Illusions** in San Francisco! Discover over 40 mind-bending 3D illusions inspired by art, movies, cartoons, current events, and more. Get your camera ready – soon, you’...

    $17

    per adult

    San Francisco Highlights Small-Group Tour in a Vintage VW Bus - Image 1

    San Francisco Highlights Small-Group Tour in a Vintage VW BusSan Francisco Highlights Small-Group Tour in a Vintage VW Bus

    5.0(614)
    ToursCity Tours

    Hop aboard a vintage Volkswagen bus for a San Francisco city tour to remember. Travel down streets a typical tour bus can't access while your guide fills you in on the history of the City by the Bay, from the Gold Rush to Silicon Valley. Get ...

    $129

    per adult

    San Francisco Staircases and Gardens Small-Group Walking Tour - Image 2

    San Francisco Staircases and Gardens Small-Group Walking TourSan Francisco Staircases and Gardens Small-Group Walking Tour

    5.0(211)
    ToursWalking Tours

    See a side of San Francisco that many visitors overlook—and soak up the city’s local feel—on this small-group walking tour. Pick between morning and afternoon start times, and meet your guide in the Inner Sunset neighborhood. Over the course ...

    $35

    per adult

    San Francisco North Beach Culinary Experience - Image 3

    San Francisco North Beach Culinary ExperienceSan Francisco North Beach Culinary Experience

    5.0(159)
    ToursFood Tours

    Join a small group of fellow food enthusiasts in the bustling heart of North Beach for an approximately three-hour exploration of the neighborhood’s vibrant past and culinary highlights. As you stroll along an easy, flat route, listen to your...

    $115

    per adult

    San Francisco and Sausalito Small-Group Driving Tour - Image 4

    San Francisco and Sausalito Small-Group Driving TourSan Francisco and Sausalito Small-Group Driving Tour

    5.0(151)
    Tours

    See the best of San Francisco (and Sausalito, its neighbor across the Golden Gate Bridge) in one trip—and enjoy an insider’s perspective as you go—on this small-group tour. Following the morning pickup, set off via vehicle to discover highlig...

    $125

    per adult

    San Francisco Small-Group Storyteller Walking Tour - Image 5

    San Francisco Small-Group Storyteller Walking TourSan Francisco Small-Group Storyteller Walking Tour

    5.0(94)
    ToursWalking ToursCity Tours

    Skip your usual San Francisco city tour for this walk with a master storyteller, focusing on the folklore and fairytales of the “City by the Bay.” Visit the Mission, the Castro, and the Duboce Triangle neighborhoods with your guide: a publish...

    $32

    per adult

    San Francisco Ghost Hunt Walking Tour - Image 6

    San Francisco Ghost Hunt Walking TourSan Francisco Ghost Hunt Walking Tour

    4.9(165)
    ToursWalking ToursGhost & Vampire Tours

    Discover the spooky tales of San Francisco's past and pass by places that are said to be haunted when you embark on this ghost tour in the Pacific Heights district. Walk about one mile at a moderate pace with your guide who shares stories of ...

    $30

    per adult

    Private Open-Top Jeep City Highlights Tour - Image 7

    Private Open-Top Jeep City Highlights TourPrivate Open-Top Jeep City Highlights Tour

    5.0(72)
    Tours

    Enjoy a seamless way to explore San Francisco’s highlights—and unobstructed views of the scenery—on this private open-top Jeep tour. Pick from morning and afternoon start times, meet your guide at Fisherman’s Wharf, and hop aboard. You can lo...

    $169

    per adult

    Emperor Norton's Fantastic San Francisco Time Machine - Image 8

    Emperor Norton's Fantastic San Francisco Time MachineEmperor Norton's Fantastic San Francisco Time Machine

    5.0(67)
    ToursWalking Tours

    Meet one of San Francisco’s larger-than-life historical figures, Emperor Norton, for a walking tour that makes the city’s history come alive. Learn about the real Emperor Norton as you take in landmarks such as Union Square, Maiden Lane, Lott...

    $30

    per adult

    San Francisco Bay Adventure Sightseeing Cruise - Image 1

    San Francisco Bay Adventure Sightseeing CruiseSan Francisco Bay Adventure Sightseeing Cruise

    5.0(336)
    BridgesObservation Decks/TowersWharfs/Piers/Boardwalks

    Head out on a one-and-a-half-hour excursion through the heart of San Francisco Bay aboard a nimble, rigid inflatable boat. Departing from Pier 39, you’ll be outfitted with gear to stay warm and dry. Cruise past city icons such as Alcatraz Isl...

    $109

    per adult

    San Francisco by E-Bike: Golden Gate Bridge, Mission, Castro - Image 2

    San Francisco by E-Bike: Golden Gate Bridge, Mission, CastroSan Francisco by E-Bike: Golden Gate Bridge, Mission, Castro

    5.0(164)
    MissionsBridges

    Ride a bike across the Golden Gate Bridge on a guided e-bike tour that explores some of San Francisco’s most iconic landmarks and neighborhoods. Cycling San Francisco is a great way to experience the city at street level, but steep hills make...

    $119

    per adult

    San Francisco to Muir Woods Shuttle - Image 3

    San Francisco to Muir Woods ShuttleSan Francisco to Muir Woods Shuttle

    5.0(53)
    Monuments/StatuesBridges

    Location: Our shuttle to Muir Woods departs from Dylan's Tours Shop in 782 Columbus Ave. at 8:00 AM or 2:00 PMWe are the only company in San Francisco offering a round-trip, direct shuttle from San Francisco to Muir Woods! Enjoy stunni...

    $89

    per adult

    The Escape Game San Francisco in Fisherman's Wharf - Image 4

    The Escape Game San Francisco in Fisherman's WharfThe Escape Game San Francisco in Fisherman's Wharf

    5.0(43)
    MissionsWharfs/Piers/Boardwalks

    The Escape Game San Francisco: Fisherman’s Wharf is set right next to delicious dining, endless entertainment, and of course, the beautiful views of the bay! A few of our favorite places to eat include Boudin, Grandeho's Kamekyo, and Pizza Zo...

    $45

    per adult

    Golden Gate Bridge Seaplane Tour - Image 5

    Golden Gate Bridge Seaplane TourGolden Gate Bridge Seaplane Tour

    4.9(112)
    BridgesWharfs/Piers/Boardwalks

    Take off from the waters of the San Francisco Bay and fly high above this gorgeous city of tall buildings, steep hills and trolly cars. Choose to meet your tour at the Seaplane base in Mill Valley or book a roundtrip shuttle from Fisherman's Wharf. C...

    $266

    per adult

    Secret Food Tours San Francisco - Image 6

    Secret Food Tours San FranciscoSecret Food Tours San Francisco

    4.9(83)
    NeighborhoodsMissions

    You will have the opportunity to discover both the local latino inspired dishes as well as the myriad of cultures that have made their imprint on the Mission today. You will enter a community that fosters stunning political street art, both on the ma...

    $79

    per adult

    Golden Gate Bridge Catamaran Cruise - Image 7

    Golden Gate Bridge Catamaran CruiseGolden Gate Bridge Catamaran Cruise

    4.9(459)
    Bridges

    Experience the beauty of San Francisco Bay on a round-trip catamaran cruise. Take in San Francisco's breathtaking skyline as you sail by Alcatraz Island and under the Golden Gate Bridge. Feel the breeze and keep a look out for sea lions. Admire your...

    $58

    per adult

    Muir Woods, Golden Gate Bridge + Sausalito with Optional Alcatraz - Image 8

    Muir Woods, Golden Gate Bridge + Sausalito with Optional AlcatrazMuir Woods, Golden Gate Bridge + Sausalito with Optional Alcatraz

    4.9(806)
    NeighborhoodsMonuments/StatuesBridgesObservation Decks/Towers

    Set off on a small-group journey through San Francisco’s eclectic districts, beginning in Chinatown and North Beach—two neighborhoods bursting with culture, culinary delights, and lively streetscapes. Next, discover the bohemian spirit of the...

    $119

    per adult

    Silent Disco Yoga at Baker Beach - Image 1

    Silent Disco Yoga at Baker BeachSilent Disco Yoga at Baker Beach

    5.0(29)
    Beaches

    Let the elements embrace you as you engage in purposeful movement, enjoy specially selected music for your journey, and benefit from the wisdom of our skilled instructors at San Francisco's famous Baker Beach. Silent disco-style headphones are used t...

    $29

    per adult

    Golden Gate Helicopter Adventure - Image 2

    Golden Gate Helicopter AdventureGolden Gate Helicopter Adventure

    5.0(22)
    IslandsParks

    Lift off the seaside helipad with impressive views from the helicopter’s bubble windows. As you reach cruising altitude, take in the sparkling waters of Sausalito and Tiburon meeting the shores. Take in the sights, island-hopping over histori...

    $384

    per adult

    Yosemite National Park Small-Group Tour From San Francisco - Image 3

    Yosemite National Park Small-Group Tour From San FranciscoYosemite National Park Small-Group Tour From San Francisco

    4.9(2916)
    National ParksParksValleysWaterfalls

    Begin your adventure with a convenient pickup from select San Francisco hotels, then relax aboard a comfortable minibus as you head east. Your first stop is a hike among massive giant sequoias—redwoods so old and large that some trunks measur...

    $229

    per adult

    San Francisco Bay Sailing Cruise - Image 4

    San Francisco Bay Sailing CruiseSan Francisco Bay Sailing Cruise

    4.9(590)
    Bodies of WaterIslandsMarinas

    Swap the city shoreline for the open water on this sailing excursion around San Francisco Bay. Board the 55- or 65-foot (17- or 20-meter) Adventure Cat catamaran from the Embarcadero and glide away from the waterfront, snappi...

    $69

    per adult

    Golden Gate Helicopter Adventure - Image 5

    Golden Gate Helicopter AdventureGolden Gate Helicopter Adventure

    4.9(26)
    BeachesBodies of WaterIslandsParks

    Soar over San Francisco in a helicopter and take in the breathtaking views. Admire the Golden Gate Bridge and the Golden Gate National Reserve with tour narration from your pilot; there is no better way to enjoy the dramatic and ever-evolving San Fra...

    $302

    per adult

    Seaplane Flight with Champagne - Image 6

    Seaplane Flight with ChampagneSeaplane Flight with Champagne

    4.9(20)
    IslandsParksState Parks

    Have you come to San Francisco with that special someone and you're looking for a fun and exciting adventure to share together? Take a premium flight for your special occasion over the romantic and iconic Golden Gate Bridge. After you're airborne, th...

    $346

    per adult

    San Francisco Hills and Hidden Gems Urban Jungle Guided Hike - Image 7

    San Francisco Hills and Hidden Gems Urban Jungle Guided HikeSan Francisco Hills and Hidden Gems Urban Jungle Guided Hike

    4.8(80)
    PlaygroundsHiking TrailsForestsParks

    Find your way to the historic Castro Theater in San Francisco's Castro district for your moderate 5-mile (8-km) urban hike. Be sure to wear proper hiking shoes to tackle the city's famous hills and bring some drinking water. Start with...

    $54

    per adult

    San Francisco Bay Private Sailboat Cruise - Image 8

    San Francisco Bay Private Sailboat CruiseSan Francisco Bay Private Sailboat Cruise

    4.8(19)
    Islands

    Boats that usually take groups out on the San Francisco Bay can be super crowded and it can even be hard to see the views. This San Francisco Bay Private Sailboat Cruise takes just you and your group out on the water, so you never have to wor...

    $695

    per adult

    The Walt Disney Family Museum general admission tickets - Image 1

    The Walt Disney Family Museum general admission ticketsThe Walt Disney Family Museum general admission tickets

    4.9(31)
    Museums

    Take a walk through time and relive childhood memories at the Walt Disney Family Museum. Learn about the magical history, achievements and legacy of Walt Disney through memorabilia dedicated to his life’s work. Located in the heart of The Pre...

    $24

    per adult

    SKIP THE LINE: Exploratorium After Dark Thursdays (18+) Admission - Image 2

    SKIP THE LINE: Exploratorium After Dark Thursdays (18+) AdmissionSKIP THE LINE: Exploratorium After Dark Thursdays (18+) Admission

    4.8(19)
    Museums

    San Francisco's Exploratorium is more than just a fun and educational museum during daytime - it's a lot of fun on Thursday nights, too. Step into a world of science, art, and human perception at night with over 650 hands-on exhibits designed...

    $23

    per adult

    SKIP THE LINE: Exploratorium After Dark Thursdays (18+) Admission - Image 3

    SKIP THE LINE: Exploratorium After Dark Thursdays (18+) AdmissionSKIP THE LINE: Exploratorium After Dark Thursdays (18+) Admission

    4.8(19)
    Museums

    San Francisco's Exploratorium is more than just a fun and educational museum during daytime - it's a lot of fun on Thursday nights, too. Step into a world of science, art, and human perception at night with over 650 hands-on exhibits designed to bogg...

    $23

    per adult

    California Academy of Sciences: Entry Ticket - Image 4

    California Academy of Sciences: Entry TicketCalifornia Academy of Sciences: Entry Ticket

    4.7(519)
    Observatories/PlanetariumsMuseumsNatural History MuseumsHistory Museums

    Located in the heart of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, the California Academy of Sciences is the world’s only aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum all housed under one incredible living roof. There’s something for someone ...

    $55

    per adult

    San Francisco Exploratorium General Admission Ticket - Image 5

    San Francisco Exploratorium General Admission TicketSan Francisco Exploratorium General Admission Ticket

    4.7(152)
    Observatories/PlanetariumsMuseums

    Bring the whole family to the Exploratorium, now conveniently located on San Francisco’s vibrant Embarcadero at Pier 15, between Fisherman’s Wharf and the Ferry Building. With a full-day general admission ticket, you’re free to discover this ...

    $40

    per adult

    Legion of Honor: Entry Ticket - Image 6

    Legion of Honor: Entry TicketLegion of Honor: Entry Ticket

    4.7(66)
    Museums

    The Legion of Honor sounds like an assembly of superheroes, but it's not. This museum in San Francisco still packs a punch though. Inside, you'll find an unrivalled collection of art. There's over 124,000 works spanning 4,000 years, from European scu...

    $20

    per adult

    Legion of Honor: Entry Ticket - Image 7

    Legion of Honor: Entry TicketLegion of Honor: Entry Ticket

    4.7(56)
    Museums

    The Legion of Honor sounds like an assembly of superheroes, but it's not. This museum in San Francisco still packs a punch though. Inside, you'll find an unrivalled collection of art. There's over 124,000 works spanning 4,000 years, from Euro...

    $20

    per adult

    San Francisco Exploratorium: Evening Admission for Happy Hour - Image 8

    San Francisco Exploratorium: Evening Admission for Happy HourSan Francisco Exploratorium: Evening Admission for Happy Hour

    4.7(47)
    Museums

    On Thursday evenings after the Exploratorium closes, crowds of everyone from computer programmers to fashion designers pour in to nourish their curiosity. It's a weekly gathering of inquisitive minds (ages 18+) amid a festive atmosphere with ...

    $23

    per adult