Learn with us online while the Exploratorium is temporarily closed. You can help us reopen—donate today.

Exploratorium Response to Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)

Updated February 26, 2021

 

The health and safety of Exploratorium visitors, employees, and volunteers is our top priority.

The Exploratorium is temporarily closed to the public. Please check back for opening updates.

Our museum closed to the public on the evening of March 12, 2020. As a trusted nonprofit institution dedicated to science, and with an understanding of the realities of the pandemic, we are committed to creating the safest environment possible for our staff, our visitors, and our community. We do not believe the time is right for us to reopen our museum doors. 

While our museum doors will remain temporarily closed, the work of our mission continues—creating inquiry-based experiences that transform learning worldwide. We will continue to develop and offer engaging online programs on our social media platforms, such as After Dark Online, and provide support and resources to educators in virtual classrooms and parents supporting home-bound students with our Learning Toolbox and Science Snacks. The pandemic has shown us the importance of science in our everyday lives, and STEAM opportunities for the next generation of creative thinkers, wherever they may be. 

Our staff will also be looking ahead to our reopening, and adapting our programs and museum experience to better respond to the needs of our communities. We want every visit to the Exploratorium to be joyful and interactive. We miss our visitors, and we’re looking forward to reopening to the public in a truly celebratory manner.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

How is the Exploratorium monitoring the situation around coronavirus disease (COVID-19)?

We are actively monitoring updates and guidance provided by San Francisco Department of Public Health, the California Department of Public Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and officials from the City of San Francisco and the State of California. 

What if I purchased tickets in advance?

If you purchased tickets in advance, please contact the reservations office at reserve@exploratorium.edu or (415) 528-4407 to reschedule your visit or refund your tickets.

Where can I find the latest updates about coronavirus?

What can I do to protect myself and others?

We recommend visiting the CDC’s website to learn more about how to protect yourself from COVID-19. The following everyday actions can help prevent the spread of many respiratory diseases:

  • Observe public health orders in your area.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care.
  • Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
  • Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces you touch.
  • Follow the CDC’s recommendations for using a face mask.
  • If you are a member of a vulnerable population, limit outings in the community.

What are the symptoms and who is at a higher risk?

Symptoms include cough, sore throat, high temperature, and feeling tired and achy, which are similar to flu symptoms. People with an increased risk of infection include people with underlying health issues, older adults, and healthcare workers caring for patients with COVID-19.