Membership FAQ

Can I apply general admission tickets toward a membership?

Absolutely! When you visit the Exploratorium with general admission tickets, you can apply your ticket costs toward a membership at any time on the day of your visit. Certain restrictions apply. Ask any Membership Associate for details.

Is an Exploratorium membership tax-deductible?
Yes, it is. As a donation to a nonprofit organization, our membership fees are either partially or fully tax-deductible depending on the level.

Can I purchase an Exploratorium membership as a gift for someone else?
Yes! An Exploratorium membership makes a great gift for any occasion. When you purchase a gift membership you will receive a gift voucher you can give as a gift. The gift voucher will only be good for 120 days from the purchase date. The membership will start once the gift voucher has been redeemed by the gift recipient. Visit our gift-membership page to learn more, or call us at (415) 528-4321.

I just joined and am planning my first visit to the Exploratorium. What do I need?
Thank you for joining! Stop by our member check-in table with your photo ID, and we will make sure you start exploring right away. You should receive a wallet-sized membership card in the mail within 4–6 weeks from the time you purchased it.

I joined the Exploratorium over two months ago but my cards have either been lost or never arrived. What can I do?
If you need new or replacement membership cards, please contact the Membership office at (415) 528-4321 or email us at member@exploratorium.edu.

Why do I need to present a photo ID along with my membership card?
We ask all of our members to present some form of photo identification along with their membership cards to ensure that the membership is being used by the appropriate party. Exploratorium memberships are nontransferrable.

Is an Exploratorium membership reciprocal with other museums?
At this time, we do not have reciprocity arrangements with other museums, institutions, or organizations. But we often have special opportunities for our members. Learn about our latest offers.

I would like to have the Exploratorium donate a membership for my charity event. To whom should I send the request?
Thank you for considering the Exploratorium for your charitable event. All requests for membership donations can be sent to member@exploratorium.edu.

I still have more questions that I need answered. Whom can I call or write?
You can reach the membership office seven days a week at 415.528.4321, and a team member will be happy to help you. You can also email us at member@exploratorium.edu.

Do I need my membership card to visit the Exploratorium? 
No, you do not need your membership card to visit the Exploratorium. Bring your photo id and check in at any of our membership or ticketing stations and a representative can assist you.

Can a guest use my membership without being named on the membership?
That will depend on your level of membership. Dual and Family Explorers levels can only be used by the adults named on the membership. However, if there is only one named adult, then a guest can visit the museum as long as the guest is accompanied by the named adult member. For Insiders, Supporters, and Sustainers levels guests can use the "Guest of" membership cards and enter the museum without the named adult members.

Are two-year memberships still available?
No, not at this time. However, if you currently have a two-year membership at any level, then you may renew your two-year membership. Please contact membership to inquire: 415.528.4321 or email member@exploratorium.edu.