Family savings and inspiration at Bay Area Discovery Museum in Sausalito
The first time we visited the Bay Area Discovery Museum in Sausalito, we went for the Taiko drummers who were performing for one of the museum’s many special events. The museum often schedules performances like this that appeal to families. We didn’t have kids with us, but it didn’t matter.
We discovered a fresh sense of wonder, as if we were children ourselves.
We watched families pretend to be pirates at Lookout Cove, the outdoor play area, explored the simple indoor exhibits, and took in the view of the Golden Gate Bridge from a delightfully different direction.
The nationally recognized Bay Area Discovery Museum is a one-of-a-kind indoor/outdoor family attraction with a full range of fun activities and unique events for children ages 6 months to 8 years old.
If you’re spending the day in Sausalito, you might just wander over and see what’s happening beneath the bridge.
The youngest children will find something that sparks the imagination and inspires playful ideas about art and science at this hands-on indoor/outdoor museum.
While you’re there, your family can grab a snack at Bean Sprouts Cafe. Designed with small children in mind, you’ll find healthy snacks for all ages.
How to Save on Bay Area Discovery Museum Tickets
The Bay Area Discovery Museum runs occasional ticket deals, some through secondary sources, and some directly. The museum also offers free admission on the first Wednesday of every month. The free days can get crowded, so go early for the best experience.
Although for most people, the best option is to get tickets online in advance, the following deals are posted on the museum’s website. As always, check directly with the source for changes or updates before you head out.
SAVVY TIP: The Bay Area Discovery Museum has an “Open Door Policy” and doesn’t not turn away visitors who can’t afford tickets. Families are welcome to visit the museum on a pay-what-you-can basis. Ask at the front desk.
Free Admission Days
Bay Area Discovery Museum admission is free the first Wednesday of each month, from 9am – 4pm. (Check for updates or date changes.)
Library Freebie
Ask your local Bay Area library if they have a Bay Area Discovery Museum Membership Card you can check out (many do).
Military Freebie
Bay Area Discovery Museum offers free admission to one child and one adult with an active military ID.
Association of Science and Technology Centers (ASTC) Freebie
The ASTC Passport Program gives members free general admission to more than 300 institutions (including the Discovery Museum) located outside a 90-mile radius of where you live. Check your membership card for the ASTC logo.
Automobile Association of America (AAA) Discount
AAA members can get $1 off per visitor for up to 5 people.
California Alumni Association (CAA) Discount
AAA members can get $1 off per visitor for up to 5 people.
California Alumni Association (CAA) Discount
CAA members get $1 off per visitor, up to 5 people.
KQED Member Discount
KQED members get $1 off per visitor, up to 5 people.
University of California San Francisco (UCSF) Discount
University of California San Francisco students get $1 off per visitor, up to 5 people.
Group Rates
Reduced rates are available directly for certain groups, schools and organizations that reach under-served children. Families might want to inquire about special admission rates.
Note: for safety reasons, the group ratio requirement is one adult for every five children at all times.
Free Passes for Nonprofits & Fundraisers
If you’re a nonprofit organization or planning a fundraiser, BADM may provide one pass good for five admissions (total value of $79.75), as long as your group os not religious or political.
Coupons
Currently not available, but when I find the next available Bay Area Discovery Museum coupon or code I will post it here.
Bay Area Discovery Museum: Know Before You Go
Where to Get Tickets
You can get tickets at the door, or get Any Day Tickets online.
Address
Bay Area Discovery Museum, 557 McReynolds Road, Sausalito, CA 94965.
Hours
Open hours vary throughout the year. Closed most Mondays and holidays.
Parking
Free parking is available in lots next to the Museum. If the main parking lot is full, try The National Park Service parking lot next to the the main entrance.
You may also park along the waterfront by the Coast Guard station, or in dirt lots on East Road.
Getting There
If you’re taking the ferry from San Francisco to Sausalito, the museum suggests taking a cab from the hotel across the street from the ferry landing.
The route is only about 2 miles, but walking isn’t recommended on the narrow streets. No buses go directly to the museum.
Strollers
Strollers aren’t allowed in some exhibit halls (the smaller historic buildings), but you can park strollers anywhere on site.
Dining
Check out the Bean Sprouts Café onsite, or bring a lunch to eat at the picnic tables by Lookout Cove. (No food or drinks allowed inside the exhibition halls.)
Best Time To Go
Afternoons or days early in the week tend to be the least crowded. If you’re planning on visiting between October and May late morning (10am to noon), call and ask the museum if they’re expecting school groups. They often have groups of 80 or more visiting during these times.
Official Info
See the official website of the Bay Area Discovery Museum.
