Proof of full COVID-19 vaccination is now required for all visitors ages 12+. Plan your visit
After Dark
See for Yourself
Every Thursday Night • 6:00–10:00 p.m. PT
Adults Only (18+)
Note: Free for members and donors—only membership card and ID are required for entry.
Let your curiosity roam free at After Dark in person! Beginning June 24 with a special night just for members, light up your brain with our Thursday-night programming for adults.
Come see how our six spacious galleries have been reimagined for reopening, with thoughtful enhancements—guided by science—designed to spark your curiosity while keeping you and your loved ones safe. You’ll find a more spacious museum experience with hand-sanitizing stations throughout, masks required for all guests, and programs of wonder and delight intended for smaller groups. Grab a drink and reunite with friends in the outdoor gallery overlooking the Bay Bridge and the city skyline, and discover something new–including spaces devoted to stories of our shared human experiences from the past year.
Members See More After Dark.
Unlimited access to 50+ After Dark evenings a year—for less than the cost of three tickets.
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Upcoming Events
After Dark: (Un)Dead Science
Thursday, October 21, 2021 • 6:00 p.m. PT
Unearth expired ideas, outdated facts, and incorrect assumptions in the scientific canon. Inspired by our annual Cemetery of Dead Science, we'll dig into scientific theories that have been overturned, some of which still haunt us today!
After Dark: Fright Night
Thursday, October 28, 2021 • 6:00 p.m. PT
Face your fears: learn about what triggers our fear response and explore familiar superstitions that leave behind an eerie feeling. And keep your eyes peeled for some sweet treats—and maybe some tricks—as you explore the museum.
After Dark: Discover Wonder
Thursday, November 4, 2021 • 6:00 p.m. PT
Spark your curiosity at After Dark! As the sun sets, we’ll hit the rainbow lights, turn the music up, and open our doors, inviting you to take your imagination out to play.
After Dark: See For Yourself
Thursday, November 11, 2021 • 6:00 p.m. PT
Spark your curiosity at After Dark. As darkness falls, we’ll hit the rainbow lights, turn the music up, and open our doors. Come visit and take your imagination out to play.
After Dark: GLOWing Science
Thursday, December 2, 2021 • 6:00 p.m. PT
Watch science come to light at After Dark—learn about the science of what makes things GLOW, and experience demos from artists and makers who harness light to transformative effect.
Learn More
Tinkering at Home
Tinkering is an active, hands-on approach to learning about the world. Try this collection of prompts using everyday materials.
Remember when something wonderful happened… and it was science?
Today, the Exploratorium needs your help. Sustain the wonder for future generations.
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