Exploratorium: save on science (free days, discount tickets, more)
The Exploratorium tops our list of fun things to do in San Francisco. Why?
First, because of their new(ish) 330,000-square-foot digs at a great Pier 15 location, along the waterfront, with an amazing view.
Second, their science exhibits now fill up three times more space than the previous location, so much more to explore.
The Exploratorium is ideal for anyone with a curious mind, including families. And children 3 and under always get in free.
They also feature the popular adult-only Exploratorium After Dark happy hours on Thursday nights.
Exploratorium offers a few ways to save on tickets. The information below will help you save, plus you’ll minimize the time you have to wait in line once you get to the Exploratorium by getting your tickets in advance.
SAVVY TIP: Scroll down for details on getting tickets and which days are admission free.
What’s new? There are 150 brand new exhibits plus hundreds of beloved classics, new outdoor exhibits, a Bay Observatory, a bigger focus on tinkering and social psychology, and much more.
–Exploratorium
6 Ways to Save at The Exploratorium
1. Exploratorium Online Tickets
Get your Tickets Online in advance and save time. This source has “Any Day” tickets, so you don’t have to pick your date in advance (so you can change your mind and go another day).
Just note the expiration date (you usually have a year to use them. Not always discounted, but there’s a “best price guarantee.”
2. Go San Francisco Pass
{Editor’s Pick} I love this pass for their “build your own” option where you save on as few as two activities, or as many as you like.
The more you do the more you save, usually from 20% to 55% off each ticket, and you have up to 30 days from first use to complete all your choices. And now you can print your pass or show on your smart phone to get in everywhere (and sometimes skip the lines).
3. San Francisco CityPASS
{Also Good} A discount card that provides free admission to six Bay Area attraction including the Exploratorium. This is the perfect choice if you’re visiting from out of the city.
4. Community Days
The Exploratorium offers Community Days throughout the year, where admission is on a pay-what-you-wish basis.
5. Exploratorium After Dark
The popular Exploratorium After Dark program takes place every Thursday evening 6pm – 10p.m. (Adults Only 18+). Admission is cheaper than daytime tickets.
That page also has the upcoming schedule. They currently have 50+ After Dark events scheduled each year. Go with friends and grab a drink together while you explore how different things look at night.
Note: This is separate from the daytime tickets – guests who visit Exploratorium during the day on Thursday will not be able to re-enter Thursday night without After Dark tickets
6. Teacher Freebie
California Public School Teachers can get free admission. You’ll need to apply on the Exploratorium website.
Exploratorium — Know Before You Go
Exploratorium Tickets
Online here, or browse combo attraction discount passes here that include Exploratorium tickets
No more SF Resident Discount
Just FYI, Exploratorium no longer offers discounted admission for SF Bay Area Residents.
Hours
Open Tuesday through Sunday from 10am until 5pm, and Thursday evening adult only hours from 6pm to 10pm. Closed Mondays except for certain holidays.
Address
Exploratorium, Pier 15, San Francisco, California 94111) between Ferry Building and Fisherman’s Wharf).
Parking (your car)
There’s an independent parking lot right across the street. Levi’s Plaza Garage offers discounted rates. Or you can park at the Embarcadero Center. You’ll also find metered street parking along the Embarcadero, and other parking lots and garages nearby.
The Exploratorium has a page that explains all the parking options, including occasional 20% off parking discounts and other offers.
Parking (your stuff)
There are coin-operated lockers just past ticketing and the Info Desk. Strollers are also available.
Hotels Nearby
Staying over in San Francisco? Check out hotel rates and reviews for rooms near the Embarcadero area and the Exploratorium (also near Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39, and Aquarium of the Bay).
Official Info
For more information about visiting, and to check for and changes or updates, see the Exploratorium website.
dre says
Tickets are not less expensive for After Dark nights. They are $20 instead of $15 for day time. :-)
Kat Summers says
Adult general admission tickets to the Exploratorium are normally $29.95, so After Dark is $10 off. The ticket page for after dark can be a bit misleading because it lists the daytime price for members, not general.
Lolly says
How far from the ferry?
Kathy Summers says
About 0.5 miles, a 10 minute walk, maybe, from the Ferry Building.
jeannie says
This is a great deal
Thanks!
Jeannie