Join our donor community

Become an Innovator →

In addition to all the benefits of membership, you'll enjoy:

• Unlimited access to the Exploratorium with your VIP membership card, plus two guest passes to share. All donors at the Innovator level are permitted up to 10 guests per day.
• Unlimited access for up to 10 guests to After Dark, our adults-only Thursday evening event series
• Priority ticketing for select programs, such as unique After Dark experiences or daytime workshops
• Exclusive virtual content, including early access to popular series and special donors-only programming
• Invitations to exclusive events and programs, such as the State of the Exploratorium, an interactive evening showcasing the impact of donor support
• Priority invitations to our annual fundraising events: Party at the Piers, Afterglow, Science of Cocktails, and Wonder Funday
• Invitations to special family events, such as Pi Day
• Breaking news about exhibitions, new exhibits, and expeditions
• Recognition on our donor rosters
• Reciprocal admission to other institutions through the Association of Science and Technology Centers passport program. (Please note: Due to the coronavirus pandemic, admissions procedures at ASTC institutions may be altered. Please plan ahead.)

The fair market value of goods and services received is $146.

If you choose to give through your donor-advised fund, then please remember tangible benefits or services may not be extended. Please consult your fund advisor with any questions.​

Join the Catalyst Circle →

In addition to Innovator-level benefits, you'll also enjoy:

$5,000 and above

• Access to the Richard & Rhoda Goldman Fund Room, an exclusive space for Catalyst Circle donors at the $5,000 level and above, for select programs
• Opportunity to engage with a volunteer program of your choice

$2,500-4,999

• Invitations to exclusive events, including preview receptions for temporary exhibitions, opportunities to hear from thought leaders such as Michael Lewis and Heather Dewey-Hagborg, and other behind-the-scenes experiences that provide an insider perspective on the Exploratorium
• Access to a dedicated concierge who can align your philanthropic interests with our programs and events
• Advance admission to our programs and learning opportunities

The fair market value of goods and services received is $146.

If you choose to give through your donor-advised fund, then please remember tangible benefits or services may not be extended. Please consult your fund advisor with any questions.

Join the Director's Circle →

As a donor in the Director's Circle, your generous support directly impacts millions of people—young and old, locally and around the world—who benefit from our programs, exhibits, and educational resources.

In addition to all Catalyst Circle and Innovator-level benefits, you'll enjoy:

$10,000 and above

• Invitations to premier events, such as the Director's Dinner, where you can exchange ideas with experts and thought leaders and enjoy entertainment that highlights the intersections of art, science, and human perception
• Customized group visits or special insider tours with the opportunity to mingle with scientists, artists, and Exploratorium thought leaders at private gatherings

The fair market value of goods and services received is $146.

If you choose to give through your donor-advised fund, then please remember tangible benefits or services may not be extended. Please consult your fund advisor with any questions.

Join the Leadership Circle →

As a donor in the Leadership Circle, you join a distinguished group of Exploratorium patrons. In addition to knowing your gift supports innovative, hands-on, and inquiry-based education, you will enjoy exclusive privileges when you visit the Exploratorium, including priority access to museum programs and thought leaders, and personalized concierge services.

In addition to all Director's Circle, Catalyst Circle, and Innovator-level benefits, you'll enjoy:

$50,000 and above

• Recognition at one of our programs or preview receptions
• A meeting with the Chair of the Board to discuss which of our programs best align with your philanthropic priorities and plans
• The chance to see the transformative impact of your support by meeting with thought leaders from one of our unique programs

$25,000–$49,999

• A private meeting with our Executive Director
• The opportunity for your family and friends to experience an inquiry-based workshop, program, or event that aligns with your interests
• Preferred access to the Museum Rentals Calendar for your private events

The fair market value of goods and services received is $146.

If you choose to give through your donor-advised fund, then please remember tangible benefits or services may not be extended. Please consult your fund advisor with any questions.

Join the Exploratorium Trust →

As an Exploratorium Trust donor, you join a distinguished group of Exploratorium patrons. Counted among our most generous donors, members of the Trust empower the Exploratorium to better carry out its mission of empowering people to think for themselves—both locally and globally. Your insight, inspiration, and engagement are essential ingredients to our success.

In addition to the benefits of all other donor levels, Exploratorium Trust donors also receive:

• The opportunity for exclusive recognition with an Exploratorium program, including a special preview reception
• Invitations to intimate gatherings with fellow philanthropists who are transforming learning worldwide

The fair market value of goods and services received is $146.

If you choose to give through your donor-advised fund, then please remember tangible benefits or services may not be extended. Please consult your fund advisor with any questions.