Each of our programs offers playful and creative opportunities for children to explore the
world around them using a mix of science activities, art, group projects, games, our vast
exhibit collection, and more. We balance curiosity-driven free time with content-based
activities that incorporate both structured and self-directed learning. And, of course, we
make it fun!
We have a variety of camp formats and camper age ranges—please see the specific camp
pages for details.
Summer Day Camps
Get hands on with science and art at the 2012 Exploratorium Summer Camp, geared to kids ages 5 to 14. This is our last summer at the Palace of Fine Arts before we move to the Embarcadero’s Pier 15; it will be memorable!
This year, our camps take kids out and about to explore on bicycles and by foot, behind the scenes to see some of our central activities, and inside the minds of women engineers to discover their impact on the field—and more. We’ve created new activities, too. As always, counselors and in-house scientists will offer a balanced mix of science, art, games, and exhibit exploration. And all the camps will include time to explore exhibits before public open hours as well as supervised free time outdoors.
Openings will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis so reserve a spot today! Exploratorium Members enjoy discounted fees. Registration is open to Nonmembers.
Nina Rubin leads the camp staff, which also includes Ken Finn, Cassie Byrd, and Manpreet Randev. The camp team includes seasoned educators, Exploratorium staff scientists, and guest experts.
Expect a confirmation e-mail after enrollment and an information packet before your session begins. For more information, call (415) 561-0376 or e-mail memberprograms@exploratorium.edu.
To find out what our camp was like last year and to see photos of activities, visit our 2011 summer camp blog.
Complimentary Extended Care
For all sessions, drop-off begins at 8:30 a.m. and pick-up ends at 5:30 pm.
Complimentary extended care is available from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., and from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. (2:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. for 5–6 year olds).
Dates and Enrollment Information
- Camp sessions run from Monday to Friday.
- Camp hours for Explororama (for 5–6 year olds) are from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.; all other camp sessions are from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Pre-registration is required.
Explorama, Ages 5–6
July 16–27
One two-week session($580 Members, $725 Nonmembers)
Exploratorium Insiders, Ages 7–10
July 16–27
One two-week session($720 Members, $900 Nonmembers)
Girls Science Institute: Engineering, Ages 10–12
June 4–8
One one-week session($365 Members, $450 Nonmembers)
Out and About: on Your Feet, Ages 11–14
June 18–22 and June 25–29
Two one-week sessions($365 Members, $450 Nonmembers)
June 18–22 Session: Register Online Now
June 25–29 Session: Register Online Now
Out and About: on Your Bike, Ages 11–14
July 30 – August 3, and August 6–10
Two one-week sessions($365 Members, $450 Nonmembers)
July 30 – August 3 Session: Register Online Now
August 6–10 Session: Register Online Now
School Holiday One-Day Camps
Your child can enjoy an amazing camp experience on a school holiday or SFUSD furlough day. Every session includes free exploration in the Exploratorium before it opens and lunchtime outdoors. Camp days are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; extended care is available. Ages 7-10; $85 ($70 Members' children and grandchildren); preregistration required.
Junk Food: Science and Art
Friday, February 17
9 a.m.–4 p.m.$85 ($70 for Members).
The Journey of Food: Culinary Adventures and the Human Body
Friday, March 16
9 a.m.–4 p.m.$85 ($70 for Members).
Spring Break Camp:
Girls Science Institute: Engineering
Monday through Friday, March 26-30
9 a.m.–4 p.m.Register Online Now

Members receive free admission every day, along with many other benefits!
Purchase a Membership online.
Find out more.



