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: Sea Otters
Thursday, September 23, 2021 • 6:00 p.m. PT
Explore California's charismatic and ecologically important sea otters, through talks about sea otter biology and the long history of otter populations and ongoing restoration efforts.
After Dark: Discover the Wonder
Thursday, September 30, 2021 • 6:00 p.m. PT
Find your aha moment at tonight’s After Dark—enjoy a cocktail, dance to a live DJ, and find out what happens when an artist, a scientist, and a magician walk into the Gold Beams Social Club.
After Dark: Extraterrestrials
Thursday, October 7, 2021 • 6:00 p.m. PT
The truth is out there! Observation, science, and a healthy dose of skepticism can show it to us. Launch into the unknown as we learn about fantastic and curious objects in outer space.
After Dark: Creature Feature
Thursday, October 14, 2021 • 6:00 p.m. PT
Snakes, spiders, and scorpions, oh my! Encounter some of the strangest creatures that have been discovered and learn about the legends that some of them have inspired during this wild night at After Dark.
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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