Explore the Exploratorium

Located in the stunning Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco’s Exploratorium has topped Good Housekeeping’s list of the best science museums in the nation. Scientific America ranked it one better by saying it’s “The best science museum in the World”. So needless to say the Exploratorium is a great place to spend a day and discover the mad scientist in you and your family. This museum is part funhouse and part experimental laboratory combined into one exciting place. It’s not just for kids. Adults will find the experience just as educational and fun.

Focusing on science and human perception, the Exploratorium contains more than 650 hands-on exhibits designed to spark curiosity and imagination. You can blow giant bubbles, shrink and grow in the Distorted Room or dissect a cow’s eye. Study Einstein’s theory of relativity, touch a tornado, shape a glowing electrical current or go on a mind-blowing adventure of the senses in total darkness in the Tactile Dome (extra $3 admission). The Matter World collection delves into the physical sciences such as heat and temperature, electricity and magnetism, motion, feedback and weather. In Listening you’ll explore what we know about sound through terrific interactive exhibits. Mind will show you how we think, feel and make decisions.

Before you leave, make sure you stop by the spectacular gift shop that is filled with brain exercising mind games, toys and tchochkes.

Admission $14 adults; $11 students, seniors, youth (13-17); $9 children

Museum hours: Open Tuesday through Sunday 10 am to 5 pm