Weekends are the perfect time for the entire family to make a day trip to the Embarcadero and take in the breathtaking views, pick up some local goodies at the Ferry Building’s farmer’s market, and check out the Exploratorium’s fascinating, hands-on weekend programs. Whether it’s your first or fiftieth time, here are four reasons to visit the Exploratorium at Pier 15 this season.
1. Saturday Cinema: Watch the ideas that animate the Exploratorium come alive on the cinematic screen. Pulled from our extensive Cinema Arts collection, this program of fun, experimental films and animations is carefully curated for kids of all ages, whether they’re 3, 13, or 63. Ignite a passion for the art and science of cinema through works that blend observation, poetry, and surrealism, and celebrate films that use unique, handcrafted processes. Get the whole family involved as active viewers and join the dialogue after the films to share your thoughts.
2. Explorables: Ever wonder what to do with extra popsicle sticks? Obsolete CDs? Forgotten paper cups? In this hands-on monthly program, use everyday materials to create models and other tools for exploring the world. As kids build fun creations, such as Paper Rockets, Popsicle Stick Harmonicas, and Anamorphic Mirrors, they engage in open-ended investigations that let them follow their hunches to aha! moments of scientific insight. Although ideal for kids ages 4–12, these take-home projects are a great way for everyone to experiment, explore, and play.
3. Full-Spectrum Science: Travel the depths of space, time, and the universe in this dynamic series led by Exploratorium staff scientist Ron Hipschman. Through interactive activities and exciting demonstrations, explore different aspects of physics that will have you examining the truths within science fiction, new ways to make colors, oohing and aahing over lasers, and more.
4. Tactile Dome: Do you have what it takes to enter total darkness for a hands-on adventure through our world-famous Tactile Dome? Crawl, slide, and bump your way using the sense of touch as your only guide through the Dome’s pitch-black chambers. Discover surprising textures and sounds. Brave the darkness alone—or use your voice and sense of hearing to help you and your family navigate. As long as you’re over seven years old, you can experience this safe, exhilarating space. Challenge accepted?
The schedule changes every weekend; be sure to visit our calendar to learn dates and times of these programs.
