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    Exploratorium After Dark

    4.4 (208 reviews)
    Closed Closed
    Updated a few days ago

    Exploratorium After Dark Photos

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    Bubble station
    Emily G.

    The After Dark offer is great for adults who want to escape from rowdy kids and experience a friendly atmosphere. And don't get me wrong, I love kids but if there's any kid-free nights offers, I take it. This museum itself is HUGE and holds so many interactive art pieces that are both fun and educational. I love that they offer Museums for All, making the experience easy to access and explore. I've been to many museums, and I gotta say, this one is in the top. You not only get to explore various pieces that are both unique and beautiful, but also get to do it all with a drink in your hand. If you're looking for an authentic museum that is both observant and interactive, this place is for you!

    Nicholas A.

    Such a fun experiment! I really enjoyed it after Dark. It is a very couples-type place or a group of friends hangout! The staff are sooo friendly and helpful. My only warning is that you would want to wash your hands a lot! A lot of touching in this exploratorium. Again, luckily it's all adults soo no kiddie hands touching things... i would bring your own personal hand wipes and/or sanitizer. They do provide a couple throughout the exhibit though. I just felt it could have had a little more.

    Seth E.

    The exploratorium is a great way to spend your Thursday night whether with family, friends, or significant others! I personally went with my family and it was a great time! There's a parking lot out across the street that you have to pay for, but we parked at the parking structure near Pier 39. I got free tickets for the four of us since I had my EBT card, so make sure to use it if you have it! The whole place is filled with tons of interesting and immersive exhibits, so much so that I still don't know if it's possible to get through every exhibit in just the four short hours that you have there. Based on our family, I think it's great for all ages (18+) as there were different exhibits that piqued our interest and allowed us to have a lot of fun in the process! No matter who you're with, there's a lot of exhibits that feature mirrors or photo opportunities that I recommend seeking out to make digital memories for that night. Definitely going back to get through the rest of it if possible!

    Outside
    Annabelle R.

    Last time I attended Exploratorium After Dark was at the old location at the Palace of Fine Arts many years ago. It's just as fun today, even post-COVID era. If you love science, it's easily 5 stars, how can you beat inteactive exhibits, learning and seeing science in action, and spending time with loved ones (especially for date night)... all while enjoying adult beverages! Well I'm not very good at science, but engaging with different exhibits is still entertaining and mind boggling, but maybe it depends on who you come with... I think EAD makes for perfect quality time with a significant other, free of distraction from kids in the venue. And the place is spaced out well, so it didn't feel too crowded during our visit. My favorite piece is the tornado exhibit which is one of the beautiful and mesmerizing artworks demonstrating a vortex of water that actually occurs in everyday tasks, like stirring liquid beverages. Unfortunately, some exhibits were closed due to the pandemic, and there were not a whole lot of drink choices through Seaglass Restaurant (your only option here). Also, affordable parking is almost non-existent. Otherwise, I'd definitely give this place 5 stars... I'm always looking for something "different" to do, and this certainly fits the bill.

    Dani S.

    Super fun event at the exploritorium! Came here one weekday night for this event and it was a great time. The whole place was crowded, seems like all the young and hip in SF are here. The whole place is open for you to play with and there were multiple scientific talks given by the staff members. The schedule is posted at the entrance and throughout the whole place so you can figure out what's going on and where. We went to a few different presentations and they were all very interesting and the staff were enthusiastic and informative. Definitely a fun event!

    Linda Z.

    This was a great interactive experience for adults! Great date night idea or something to do with your friends! (Don't wear heels to this date night like me, lots of walking!) Being an adult doesnt mean you can't be a kid at heart. Loved how After Dark does not have any nasty kids picking their boogers and touching everything. My favorite pieces were the magnetic black sand and dry ice that imitated comets in space. Spent about 2 1/2 hours and didnt finish the exhibit, so much to see & will come back again. Relatively affordable for only $20 per person

    All of the lights
    Arnold M.

    I absolutely love this place! I've been here at regular times but this was my first time experiencing the "After Dark" times and it was awesome! If you're looking for a place to hang and do science stuff (lol) with friends, a date, or solo like I did, this is the place to be. It was only $20 bucks to get in and you get full access to all of the different exhibits. The Seaglass restaurant was open and served drinks and food! The staff there are extremely friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. Shout out to the team that did the cow eye dissection! They were very cool about me live streaming my experience there and my viewers enjoyed the whole trip. Would definitely recommend After Dark since you get to experience so much for such a low price. Amazing place. I would post more pictures but there's only so much I could post!!!

    Colby D.

    What's better than the Exploratorium during the day? The Exploratorium After Dark! Adults only + alcohol is truly the only thing that can make the Exploratorium better than it usually is. The Exploratorium After Dark (EAD) series features most, if not all Exploratorium offerings, and there is nearly always a theme that brings in a few more attractions (usually booths or shows). I've been to EAD twice, once for a "Future Foods" event and once for a Glow event. At the Future Foods event, I learned about cellular seafood with Finless Foods, about sustainable agriculture with CUESA, about smart gardens with Kijani Grows, about vertical farming with Green Skies Vertical Farms, and listened to institute for the Future's Rebecca Chesney talk about recipes for the next decade. I also re-tried the vegan Impossible Burger, tried chips made of crickets, and got a free persimmon on the way out! The Glow event just had cool lighting and lasers and stuff...it could have had a lot more that I missed, but it didn't seem much different than a themeless EAD. I've been wanting to draw with that weird pendulum machine for a while but there are always too many people in line. Maybe one day... Oh and although there is alcohol, keep in mind that it's kinda pricey and there are only special drinks on themed nights.

    MarVy S.

    An After Dark Museum for adults 18 and over. It's open every Thursday night from 6pm- 10pm. It's located in Pier 15. The activities touches on science and human perception. You'll learn a lot if things! :: Experience:: We came on May 4th which was a Stars Wars theme; May the 4th be with you. Some people dressed up with the Stars Wars theme. I liked the R2-D2 droids roaming around. This museum is very hands-on. They serve alcohol throughout the place. The activities consist of sight, motion, electricity, water, wind, and sound, etc. There are also exhibits outside. This place is a big playground for adults. ::Food:: If you are hungry, there is restaurant inside called SeaGlass. ::Tips:: -Purchase tickets online. -Check the website for events. ::M's Notes:: -Ticket Prices: $15 General and $10 Members -Street and Lot Parking

    Fallon F.

    So much fun for date night! Bay Area Native here and I've been to the exploratorium on field trips numerous time growing up, coming back as an adult was just as fun! Beer and drink selection were reasonably priced in the cafe in my opinion with good options too. The exhibits themselves were obviously fun and interactive and it didn't seem too crowded here either. They check vaccination cards and IDs and have hand sanitizer all over the place which was a nice Covid friendly addition too given almost everything is hands on and interactive. Tons of fun and definitely will be coming back to after dark. I've gone to cal academy's after dark which is fun as well, but I have to say I think the exploratoriums exhibits are way more interactive.

    Piggyback!
    Nicole G.

    I think my expectations were too high. After a few months of waiting the anticipation was high based on the Yelp reviews. The science and technology were interesting. Many exhibits ranging from sight and sound. My personal favorite was geography and the history of California territorial lands. There are a few bars around the exploratorium. The shortest line was in the cafeteria. After dark is cool because it is 21 and up and it is date night and/or groups of people walking around. We were there for an hour and a half. We were able to park across the street without paying, because there was no attendant.

    Inside

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    1 year ago

    Adults after dark so well worth it. We were hooked after the first visit. Now we're members.

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    5 years ago

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    4 years ago

    Super fun spot for all ages. Love the view of the Bay.

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    2 years ago

    It was great lots of HANDS ON lines are a bit long for the activities but the bigger kids (8yrs ) perhaps would enjoy more.

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    Page 1 of 6

    Ask the Community - Exploratorium After Dark

    Are you allowed to take adult drinks with you as you walk through the exhibits?

    Yes! We encourage you to get inquisitive and grab a drink.

    Do people dress up or is it casual?

    I just wanted to confirm before I commute to the city with my dog - are dogs allowed to the all exploratorium after dark events? TIA!

    I saw a service dog

    Do you need to show ID to enter?

    Hi Jennifer! Thanks for your question. After Dark is open to all visitors ages 18 and older. We do not typically check IDs at the door, as the entryway to the museum is open to the public. We will occasionally check IDs at the ticket counter or… 

    How do I become a member here?

    Membership area is located straight ahead past the ticketing area.

    View All 6 Questions

    Review Highlights - Exploratorium After Dark

    The tactile dome was quite intriguing and I'd highly recommend it if you've never done it before.

    Mentioned in 20 reviews

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    Exploratorium

    4.4(1.3k reviews)
    0.1 miEmbarcadero, North Beach/Telegraph Hill

    I've been coming to the Exploratorium since I was in elementary school 40 years ago, and after all…read morethese years, I can honestly say that my love for this place has only grown deeper. I'm now a STEAM instructor myself, and I still feel the same sense of wonder every time I walk through the doors. The Exploratorium understands something incredibly important: science isn't just a collection of facts to memorize. It's something to touch, hear, build, question, experiment with, and experience. What I admire most is the institution's mission to make science tangible, accessible, and genuinely fun. The exhibits invite curiosity instead of demanding expertise, which makes them just as engaging for adults as they are for children. Every visit reminds me that science belongs to everyone. As someone who teaches kids for a living, I know how difficult it is to create experiences that are both educational and exciting. The Exploratorium has been doing exactly that for decades, and they continue to set the standard. Their educators, exhibit designers, and staff have created something truly special. San Francisco is full of iconic landmarks, but for me, the Exploratorium will always be one of the city's greatest treasures. It played a role in shaping the person I became, and I have no doubt it will continue inspiring generations of curious minds. I was a science-loving kid when I first walked in, and, thankfully, I'm still a science-loving kid now.

    We visited the Exploratorium as part of the City Pass. It was definitely a full day of exploring…read moreand was better towards the end of the day when the summer camp kids left. My kids enjoyed but we also had to take breaks in-between. Why 3 stars you ask? It's a huge space, but all of the exhibits were similar to science museums we have in So Cal. Some things were broken or not operational the day we went. Lunch offerings were super healthy which is a plus. But we liked 2/4 entrees we ordered. Priced are as expected for museums. Logistics wise, you really have to come early to secure good parking. We came an hour after opening and street + parking lots were full. If you plan to come, I say it's a deal via City Pass, but I wouldn't pay full admission prices to go.

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    California Academy of Sciences - Macaws

    California Academy of Sciences

    3.9(3.7k reviews)
    4.3 mi

    Located in the Golden Gate Park this California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco is the…read moreultimate natural history museum that offers an aquarium, planetarium, as well as a 4-story rainforest ! I think it will take me a week to literally be able to go see everything !! Anazing aquarium with a Philippine Coral Reef, and was able watch feeding time of the fish in this particular aquarium!! 2 scuba divers cleaning aquarium during the presentation!!

    The California Academy of Sciences is a wonderful place to visit for all ages. It was my first time…read morethere, though others in my group had visited before. We went on a Wednesday morning during summer break. Tickets can be purchased online or in person; we bought ours on-site and there was no line. Inside, it was busy but not overcrowded, so it was still very enjoyable. Positives: - Clean and well maintained throughout. - Indoor, multi-level space that is accessible. - Convenient food court with multiple options. - Plenty of seating areas for taking short breaks. - A wide variety of exhibits and experiences. Our favorites were the Osher Rainforest and the Steinhart Aquarium. You can easily tailor your visit to be short or long depending on your pace. There is also a lot of engaging and educational information throughout the museum. Be sure to check the daily schedule posted on-site or online to learn about special exhibits and events. Negatives: The only downside was the bánh mì from the food court, which was underwhelming. Overall, I highly recommend the California Academy of Sciences. It is a great outing, especially for families with children.

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    Museum Of 3D Illusions

    Museum Of 3D Illusions

    4.4(354 reviews)
    0.9 miFisherman's Wharf, North Beach/Telegraph Hill

    When we went it wasn't crowded so we could take our time and take pictures. I like that there were…read moreguides on the floor that showed where to set up the camera. Also, it was helpful having sample photos up on the wall. Took 1 star off because it's a bit pricey. If it was a crowded day, it would have been stressful to take pics and take our time.

    This was a fun little place, and I emphasize, "little." It worked out for us because we were the…read moreonly ones there. I get why this place would be super hot and not the best if there were multiple guests inside. The place itself is really tiny and it's quite stuffy inside. It was just, my husband, my son and I, so we were able to take time to take pics of all the backdrops. The backdrops are painted murals that create cool illusions. They have sample pics so you know where and how to pose and signs where you're supposed to stand to take pics. It took us about 30 minutes to circle the whole thing (maybe even less). This is a fun a little trip if you don't mind taking wacky pics like we do. Also, it would help if you don't mind lying on the floor. We enjoyed it, but I can see why the bad reviews of people expecting it to be much more. As long as you know what to expect, I still think it's an enjoyable experience. Pros: Cute murals that make for cool photos Fun family activity or with friends They have lockers for your stuff up front Cons: it's pretty pricey, and TBH, not worth $30 per person.

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    Palace Of Fine Arts - At Sunset

    Palace Of Fine Arts

    4.7(1.2k reviews)
    2.8 miMarina/Cow Hollow

    "You ain't nothin' but fine, fine, fine And I wish you were…read moremine, mine, mine You ain't nothin' but fine, fine, fine" (Rockpile) I just read that San Francisco ranks #2 among the most expensive U.S. cities to live. But that doesn't mean there aren't some bargains to be had if you know where to look. As a case in point, look no further than the jaw dropping outdoor grounds of the Palace of Fine Arts. You can see this magnificence for free. It was built for the 1915 Panama Pacific Exposition with a Greco-Roman soaring rotunda, looping colonnades, and 17 acres of parks, walking paths, and wetlands make it one of San Francisco's most photogenic spots. The architecture reminds me of what you see in the Gladiator movies, or in photos of ancient ruins, with Corinthian columns, sculpted figures, and grand arches. We spent an hour or so just strolling around and enjoying the beauty of what surrounded us. And it was all free of charge.

    The Palace of Fine Arts is one of the most beautiful and peaceful places in San Francisco. Whether…read moreyou're a visitor or a local, it's the perfect spot to slow down and take in the scenery. The views are stunning from every angle, with the iconic rotunda reflected in the lagoon and surrounded by beautiful architecture and lush vegetation. The lake is full of life, and it's common to see swans, ducks, geese, and other birds enjoying the water, making it feel like a hidden oasis in the middle of the city. The lagoon is known for attracting a variety of bird species throughout the year. There are plenty of grassy areas to spread out a blanket, relax with a book, enjoy a picnic, or simply soak in the atmosphere. The walking paths are easy to explore, and every turn offers another great photo opportunity. On busy days, you'll often find vendors nearby adding to the lively and welcoming environment. Whether you're looking for a peaceful morning walk, a romantic setting, or just a place to sit and enjoy nature, the Palace of Fine Arts delivers. A true San Francisco treasure that never disappoints.

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    Asian Art Museum - Japanese pottery

    Asian Art Museum

    4.4(860 reviews)
    1.8 miCivic Center

    My mom and I came here on the last Sunday of the Chiharu Shiota special exhibit & really thought it…read morewas so immersive & interesting. The video depicting the trajectory of her art career was also note worthy. We enjoyed perusing the rest of the museum at our leisure and thought that everything was arranged and decorated differently displayed so nicely. The collection of art and artifacts is vast & honestly breathtaking! It was also great to see all of the special activities that were available to patrons to enjoy such as mahjong, painting with tea, making paper flowers & so on. The museum was busy but because it is so spacious, it did not feel overcrowded, and it was very pleasant. The store is also nicely curated & we had fun looking at the many wares for sale. The Asian Box casual restaurant inside the museum was a perfect place for us to grab two Arnold Palmers as a little afternoon treat. The restaurant is actually open on Tuesday & Wednesday even when the museum is closed There are plenty of bathrooms throughout the museum & elevators are also available - making the whole museum accessible. This was my second time to this museum & it was another excellent visit! Arigato! A couple of notes: Tuesday & Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 1-8pm Friday-Monday 10am-5pm First Sunday of the Month: Free Admission

    Love it here! Came here for the matcha presentation from Constance tea and I learned so much! The…read morepresenters were so knowledgeable about the matcha process and we got see how matcha is grinded with the hand mill. I thought I knew about a lot about matcha but learned even more. The cherry on top was that we were able to taste the matcha with just water. No milk. No sugar. Just matcha. Super smooth without bitterness. That's high quality matcha. Really insightful presentation. Hope they come back here. Will definitely visit their shop. While I was there, I was also able to check out the Chiharu Shiota exhibit. Last day of the exhibit. So in awe of the red yarn tunnel. So elaborate and intricate. The handwritten pages from the journals of Japanese soldiers were also suspended within the yarn. A lot of art and passion went into here and really blown away by the quality. Also the mahjong tables were really fun. Didn't really know how to play but was able to learn quickly. People were so nice and willing to teach me. Great experience. Such a fun Sunday at the museum. Highly recommend for something fun to do in SF.

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    Exploratorium After Dark - museums - Updated August 2026

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