General Policy
Visitors with disabilities can visit the museum at a reduced rate. Discounts are provided for both general admission and groups. Groups are requested to make a reservation before their visit by calling 415-561-0308 Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Parking
Visitors who display a handicapped plate or placard may park in one of the identified spaces in the north lot, directly in front of the Exploratorium’s entrance. A drop-off area is also located in the same area (see map).
Public Transportation
For
information about bus accessibility in San Francisco,
phone the San Francisco Municipal Railway (MUNI) at
415-923-6142 or visit their Web site at www.sfmuni.com.
To learn about accessibility of Bay Area Rapid Transit
(BART) trains that travel both into and out of San Francisco,
phone
Membership
People
with disabilities may purchase specially priced Exploratorium
Memberships. This includes unlimited free admission
for two, your personal Membership card, a 20% discount
at the Exploratorium Store, and much more! To learn
more about Membership,
please call
Assistance Animals
Guide dogs and other certified assistance animals are welcome inside the Exploratorium.
Accessibility and Amenities
- All exhibition spaces, the Exploratorium Store, Café, and all public restrooms are wheelchair accessible. One set of restrooms is in the museum’s entrance lobby; the other is located near the Café.
- A limited number of wheelchairs are available for loan, free of charge, at the museum office. Visitors need to leave an I.D. as a deposit when borrowing a wheelchair.
- First Aid and Lost & Found are located in the museum office.
- Benches are located throughout the Exploratorium.
- If you need assistance operating an exhibit or have any questions while visiting the museum, please approach any Explainer (a museum guide wearing a bright orange vest).
- An elevator that accesses the museum’s mezzanine is located near the classrooms.
Tactile Dome
This exhibit provides a unique perceptual experience as you travel through a series of various textures in total darkness. While the Tactile Dome is not wheelchair accessible, visitors with adequate upper-body strength to crawl, climb, and slide are welcome. Sign language interpreters or other necessary attendants are admitted free of charge, but advance notice must be given if they accompany a party. Reservations are necessary and can be made by calling 415-561-0362 Monday through Friday, between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. If you have questions regarding the Tactile Dome, please contact the Tactile Dome office at 415-353-0426. Private parties are available for groups of 15 to 20 people.
