Frequently Asked Questions

What about accessibility?

The Exploratorium is fully wheelchair accessible. We can also lend wheelchairs to visitors who need them. We have tactile maps for blind and visually impaired visitors. You can pick one up at the Information Desk, located just past the ticket scanning station. For more information, visit Accessibility.

What should I wear?

You'll want to wear comfortable clothes. We recommend layers, so that you're ready for whatever San Francisco weather comes your way—sun, fog, or a chilly ocean breeze. Comfortable shoes are a must. The Exploratorium campus covers 3.3 acres, so expect to do plenty of walking. Don't worry if your shoes do turn unfriendly, though; we have bandages at our First Aid station.

What can I do with my bag/coat/stuff?

There are coin-operated lockers just past the ticket scanning station (small) and outside the Information Desk (large). Small lockers are 10"w x 14"h x 14"d; large lockers are 23.5"w x 29"h x 23"d.

What about food?

There are two museum dining areas—the Seismic Joint Café, which faces the outdoor plaza, and Seaglass Restaurant in the Bay Observatory. Both feature seasonable and sustainable cuisine prepared under the auspices of acclaimed San Francisco chef Loretta Keller.

Is the Exploratorium just a kids’ museum?

No, our exhibits can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages. Some exhibits and programs are best appreciated by adults while others are very popular with kids and toddlers. And every Thursday night After Dark (ages 18+) offers thoughtful and innovative science, arts, and perceptual experiences.

Is there anything here for toddlers?

Many of our exhibits involving color, bubbles, light, and shadow are big hits with toddlers and younger children. Note that strollers are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Here are some tips and helpful bits of advice on visiting the Exploratorium with kids.

Can I drop my child off to explore the museum on their own?

Parents and caregivers must be responsible for the supervision of their children. Museum staff cannot take the place of a parent or assume responsibility for unsupervised children. 

Children aged 12 and under shall be supervised at all times and in the immediate presence of a parent or other responsible caregiver (18+) identified by a parent/guardian. 

Children aged 13 and older may be unsupervised provided that: They are able to behave appropriately while unsupervised. The length of time they are left alone does not exceed the child’s comfort level with the situation. 

They are, at all times, the legal responsibility of their parent/legal guardian and have an emergency contact available who can come and pick them up at the museum on short notice. 

Unsupervised children must be picked up prior to the regularly scheduled closing time of the museum. If a child is not picked up by the regularly scheduled closing time the museum staff will call the police to take custody of the child. 

Is it okay to shoot photos and video in the museum?

Informal photography and video for personal use, including engagement and wedding shoots, are allowed during regular public hours as long as other visitors' experiences are not disrupted and the photos are for noncommercial use. Photography of strangers is not allowed for any reason without the person’s (or their guardian's) express, written consent.

Any photography, filming, or recording intended for publication in television or film or on radio must be approved by the Marketing Department. In addition, any photo shoots outside of regular public hours or any photography that blocks access to exhibits, requires extra lighting, or results in any other potentially disruptive activity must be arranged through the Museum Rentals Department.

Where can I find additional help on site at the museum?

Ask a staff member or any Floor Facilitator (we all wear badges), or visit the Information Desk (just past the ticket scanning stations).

Is this the place with the planetarium/aquarium?

The Exploratorium does not have a planetarium or an aquarium. You might be confusing us with the California Academy of Science, another great San Francisco museum. We encourage you to visit both.

What else can I do nearby?

The Ferry Building features a wealth of shopping and dining choices as well as a farmers’ market several days a week. (You can also catch a ferry to many points in the Bay Area.) You might also enjoy a stroll down to nearby Port Walk at Piers 1½, 3, and 5. Alcatraz tours and Pier 39 aare located just a short stroll north, along the Embarcadero. Less than a mile away is historic North Beach, home to fine restaurants, the lovely Washington Square Park, and the famous City Lights bookstore, founded by poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti. Chinatown, the oldest and largest Chinese community outside of Asia, is also nearby; you'll find the iconic Dragon Gate, excellent dim sum restaurants, and colorful bazaars featuring everything from precious gems to paper umbrellas.

Check with individual attractions to confirm hours and availability.

I still have questions. Who can I contact?

Call our Reservations Office at 415.528.4444 and choose option 5. Someone is available to answer your call from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, with extended hours from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursdays.