Membership FAQ

What are the benefits of being an Exploratorium member?

Exploratorium members receive:

• Free year-round general admission.
• Free subscription to our Membership eNews.
• A 10% discount on purchases in the Exploratorium stores.
• Invitations to special member-only events and evening hours.
• Exclusive access to programs such as workshops, excursions, homeschool science, and more.
• Discounted admission to the popular Tactile Dome.
• Discounted admission to After Dark and Thursday Nights. (Free for Lab Members.)

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. Learn more here 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 membership@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 wish would like to have the Exploratorium donate a membership for my charity event. Who should I send my request to?
Thank you for considering the Exploratorium for your charitable event. All requests for Membership donations can be sent to membership@exploratorium.edu.

I still have more questions that I need answered. Who can I call or write to?
You can reach the membership office 7 seven days a week at (415) 528-4321, and; a team member will be happy to help you. You can also e-mail us at membership@exploratorium.edu.