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4.0-Rated Hotels Near Exploratorium
Exploratorium isn’t just for kids—it’s a playground for curious minds of all ages. Dive into hands-on exhibits that turn ‘how does this work?’ into ‘aha!’ in seconds. From space missions to ocean depths, it’s science with soul, where every experiment sparks joy and wonder. You’ll leave with your mind buzzing—and your imagination fully unleashed.
Hotel Zoe Fishermans Wharf
San Francisco Marriott Fisherman's Wharf
Warwick San Francisco
The Laurel Inn, Part of Jdv by Hyatt
Hotel Abri Union Square
Washington Square Inn
Pacific Studio South Holiday
Cornell Hotel de France
HI San Francisco Downtown Hostel
Best Western Red Coach Inn
Francisco Bay Inn
Travelodge by Wyndham Presidio San Francisco
Buena Vista Motor Inn
Inn on Broadway
Nob Hill Motor Inn -Newly Updated Rooms!
Columbus Residence
The Annex at Hayes Valley
Hotel Carlton
Orange Village Hostel
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Exploratorium
Stay at Hotel Zephyr, a boutique hotel just a 5-minute walk from the Exploratorium, offering breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay and Golden Gate Bridge. The rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows and modern design inspired by maritime themes. The hotel provides complimentary shuttle service to the museum and has a rooftop terrace bar perfect for evening cocktails with panoramic cityscapes. Located in the vibrant Yerba Buena district, it's also within walking distance of the Museum of Modern Art and close to Fisherman’s Wharf and Lombard Street.
Yes, the Exploratorium is perfectly situated along the Embarcadero waterfront with excellent transit access. The T-Third Street Muni Metro stops directly at Embarcadero Station, just an 8-minute walk away. Additionally, Muni bus lines 21, 43, and 47 serve the museum’s doorstep, connecting visitors to downtown San Francisco, North Beach, and other key districts. Use a Clipper Card or mobile ticketing app for seamless travel. From SFO Airport, take the BART to Powell Street, then transfer to the light rail to Embarcadero—about 30 minutes total. The museum also offers free shuttle services during peak hours, making it easy to navigate between exhibits and nearby attractions.
The Exploratorium itself is a hands-on science wonderland featuring immersive exhibits like the "Sensory Maze," "Kinetic Windmill Lab," and "Wave Art Installation." Outside, the floating pier hosts outdoor science workshops including solar-powered boat races and tidal simulation experiments. On weekends, enjoy "Night Science Parties" blending light shows with live demonstrations, ideal for families and curious minds. The museum also partners with SFMOMA to offer joint tickets, combining cutting-edge science with contemporary art for a truly interdisciplinary experience.
Stay at Coastal Family Inn, a child-friendly hotel just a 5-minute walk from the Exploratorium. It features a dedicated playroom, parent-child suites, and 24/7 concierge service. All rooms come equipped with non-toxic kid-safe furniture and interactive educational tech. The hotel offers free family-guided tours including backstage access to the museum, hands-on science workshops, and bay ecology walks. With complimentary breakfast and kid-friendly meals, this is a top choice for parents traveling with children.
The Exploratorium is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours until 9:00 PM on Fridays. Tickets are recommended for purchase in advance via the official website to save $5 and secure your entry time. Adult tickets cost $28, students and seniors $22, and children (3–12) $18. Holders of the San Francisco CityPASS enjoy skip-the-line access. On-site tickets are limited and sell out quickly during holidays—avoid peak times. The museum features wheelchair-accessible entrances and multilingual audio guides, ensuring inclusive experiences for all visitors.
Try The Pier 15 Kitchen, a waterfront dining spot renowned for its fresh seafood and locally sourced organic ingredients. The menu changes monthly, focusing on California cuisine, with outdoor seating offering stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay—perfect for sunset dining. Another favorite is Lobster Shack, located near the Maritime Museum, serving freshly steamed lobster and craft beer in a relaxed, nautical setting. Both restaurants offer mobile ordering, contactless payment, and efficient service, making them ideal for families and food lovers alike.
Marriott Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco is an excellent choice, located just a 10-minute walk from the Exploratorium. The hotel offers family suites and child-friendly amenities, with convenient access to maritime views and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Complimentary shuttle services connect guests to major attractions, while spacious rooms feature modern furnishings and some with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. On-site facilities include a fitness center and indoor pool, perfect for relaxing after a day of interactive science exploration. Nearby dining options and souvenir shops make it easy to extend your visit seamlessly.
Take a short walk to the Embarcadero Station and board the Muni Bus 30 or F Market & Wharves Streetcar, reaching downtown landmarks like Union Square or Market Street in about 20 minutes. For faster transit, transfer at Millbrae BART Station to reach downtown via the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system—just 15 minutes away. Alternatively, electric scooters and ride-hailing apps like Uber or Lyft are readily available outside the museum, offering on-demand mobility. All options accept San Francisco Muni Pass and mobile payments, ensuring seamless, efficient travel.
The Exploratorium itself offers immersive, hands-on exhibits such as the Tactile Light Lab and Wind Tunnel Simulator, allowing visitors to explore physics through direct engagement. Outside, the emerald waterfront promenade features interactive installations like the sound-reactive water fountain and solar-powered sculptures, blending art and science with nature. Weekly events include the Night Science Festival, featuring stargazing tours, laser light shows, and live science demonstrations, creating a dynamic, multisensory experience. These activities are ideal for all ages and exemplify the museum’s mission to inspire curiosity through innovation and play.
The Fog Room Café, located along the waterfront promenade, offers floor-to-ceiling windows framing breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Strait and San Francisco Bay. Known for its locally roasted coffee and artisanal pastries, the café’s signature Fog Latte pairs perfectly with fresh-baked bread. Outdoor seating on the rooftop includes shaded umbrellas and heated tables, making it comfortable year-round. The café accepts Apple Pay and Google Wallet, and features accessible entrances. Live jazz performances on weekends enhance the cultural ambiance, creating a perfect spot to unwind after exploring the museum.
Yes! The Oceanfront Art Corridor features a large-scale projection-mapped mural that changes themes weekly—such as underwater bioluminescent scenes or neon future cityscapes—using dynamic lighting for immersive visuals. Another popular spot is the colorful staircase beside the San Francisco Harbor Lighthouse, painted by local artists with vibrant, whimsical designs. Both areas include enhanced lighting systems for optimal photos in daylight and nighttime. Interactive sound sculptures nearby also add fun, responding to touch with unique audio effects. These spots are favorites among photographers seeking creative, Instagram-ready moments.
The Exploratorium is open 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays, extended to 8:00 PM on weekends. Special events like the Night Science Festival may extend hours to 10:00 PM. Pre-HopeGoo tickets online is recommended to avoid peak crowds. The museum features wheelchair-accessible pathways, free Wi-Fi, and multilingual guidebooks. Admission is free, though select interactive exhibits require additional fees. Always verify current hours via the official website before visiting.
Yes! Electric bike rental stations are located along the waterfront promenade outside the museum, offering app-based unlocking starting at $15 per hour. Bikes come equipped with helmets and built-in navigation systems that automatically plot routes upon destination input. A recommended route leads through Golden Gate Park, passing key stops like the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and Japanese Tea Garden. Rentals operate 24/7, accepting credit cards and Apple Pay. All bikes undergo regular maintenance, ensuring safety and comfort—ideal for efficiently exploring the western side of San Francisco.
Traveler Reviews
See what other travelers say about Exploratorium
Hotel Zoe Fishermans Wharf
Staying at Hotel Zoe Fishermans Wharf was a delightful experience. Compared to Union Square, I felt significantly safer—especially during evening walks around the neighborhood. The hotel itself is well-maintained, clean, and modern, with a cozy, welcoming vibe. One unexpected highlight? The little plush toy in the lobby—it’s adorable and totally worth the purchase! Even though it’s not free, you’ll want one just for the cuteness factor. Great location, excellent comfort, and fantastic value. Definitely planning to come back.
San Francisco Marriott Fisherman's Wharf
Staying at the San Francisco Marriott Fisherman's Wharf was a fantastic experience. The room was spacious and well-appointed, offering plenty of comfort after a day exploring the city. Its location couldn’t be better—just a short walk from Fisherman’s Wharf, making it super convenient for dining, shopping, and enjoying the waterfront views. The only minor downside is the lack of luggage storage, but the staff were very helpful—they assisted with transferring our bags to the car and allowed us to retrieve them later, which worked out smoothly. Overall, this hotel delivers excellent value and convenience, especially for travelers who want to be right in the heart of the action. I’d definitely stay here again.
Warwick San Francisco
Staying at the Warwick San Francisco was an absolute delight from start to finish. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming—some of them even had that charming, handsome vibe that made check-in a real pleasure. The location is perfect: just a short walk from the subway entrance, making it super convenient for getting around the city. Security is top-notch too—doors are locked at night, which gives you peace of mind. The room is on the smaller side, but everything else more than makes up for it. One thing to note: like most US hotels, they don’t provide toothbrushes or toothpaste, so be sure to bring your own (I’m glad I did!). Early one morning, I wandered downstairs around 5 AM and was surprised—and reassured—to see a strong, confident Black female security guard patrolling the lobby. Her presence instantly gave me a huge sense of safety. Plus, the hotel has its own restaurant and bar right on-site, so grabbing a bite or a drink in the evening is effortless and hassle-free. Overall, it’s a fantastic blend of comfort, convenience, and security—definitely a place I’d stay again.
The Laurel Inn, Part of Jdv by Hyatt
Our stay at The Laurel Inn was absolutely wonderful—quiet, comfortable, and incredibly well-located. The staff went above and beyond with their friendly, professional service; every interaction felt genuine and helpful. We booked a room with a small kitchenette, which made a big difference—having space to prepare light meals and enjoy coffee in the room added so much convenience and comfort. The neighborhood felt safe both during the day and at night, which made walking around easy and stress-free. It’s clear the hotel prioritizes guest wellbeing and experience. A standout choice for anyone looking for a peaceful, stylish stay in San Francisco. Would definitely return.
Hotel Abri Union Square
Staying at Hotel Abri Union Square was an excellent experience overall. The staff went above and beyond—when I noticed the air conditioning wasn’t working properly upon arrival, I mentioned it to the front desk, and within minutes, a technician came up to fix it. They resolved the issue quickly and efficiently, which really impressed me. One of the little touches I appreciated was the availability of travel adapters—so convenient for international guests like myself. I also received a welcome gift upon check-in, which added a nice personal touch. Even though there was a brief HVAC hiccup, the prompt response made all the difference. The hotel’s location is fantastic—just a short walk from public transit and major attractions in San Francisco. It’s a great value for the quality and service. I’d definitely stay here again.
Washington Square Inn
Staying at Washington Square Inn was an absolute delight. The interior design is beautiful and full of character, with a cozy, welcoming vibe throughout. The bed was incredibly comfortable—perfect for a good night's sleep after a long day exploring San Francisco. One of the best perks? Coffee is available 24/7—whether it’s early morning or late at night, you can grab a fresh cup without any hassle. The lobby is spacious and inviting, making it a great spot to relax, work, or just unwind. The staff were friendly, attentive, and genuinely helpful—always ready to assist with anything from local recommendations to check-in questions. Even the housekeeping team stood out; they were kind, respectful, and always went the extra mile. Everything about this place felt thoughtfully done, from the cleanliness to the little touches that make a stay feel special. It’s not just a hotel—it’s a home away from home. Highly recommend for anyone visiting San Francisco.
Cornell Hotel de France
Staying at Cornell Hotel de France was a delightful surprise. The room had a charming vintage vibe—elegant, quiet, and impeccably clean, making it a perfect retreat after a day of exploring. I was pleasantly surprised by the complimentary bottled water, a small but thoughtful touch. The location is unbeatable: just a 5-minute walk to Union Square and close to the cable car stop, so getting around town is super easy. Breakfast was far better than expected—abundant, fresh, and delicious, giving me plenty of energy for the day ahead. Every detail felt well thought out, and the overall value is outstanding. I’d definitely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting San Francisco.
HI San Francisco Downtown Hostel
At 66, this was my first time staying at a hostel—and I’m amazed by how welcoming everyone was and how clean and comfortable the rooms are. We booked an en-suite room with crisp white towels, fresh bedding on a wonderfully comfy bed, and daily housekeeping made sure everything stayed spotless. Located just around the corner from Union Square, it’s perfectly positioned for exploring downtown San Francisco—walking distance to shops, restaurants, and all major transit options. The location is unbeatable, and the value for money is outstanding. Huge thanks to the friendly staff at check-in—they made our arrival smooth and stress-free.
Best Western Red Coach Inn
Staying at the Best Western Red Coach Inn was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—right near the south entrance of the park, making it super convenient to explore downtown San Francisco and nearby attractions. The rooms were spotless, well-maintained, and very comfortable, with a peaceful atmosphere that made for a restful night's sleep. I especially appreciated how close everything was—the local shops, cafes, and restaurants were just steps away. It’s a great base for both sightseeing and relaxing. With excellent value and top-notch service, this place truly stands out. I’ll definitely be back and highly recommend it to anyone visiting the city.
Francisco Bay Inn
This motel is perfectly located for exploring San Francisco on foot—just a short walk to the waterfront district and North Beach, and right around the corner from a bus stop that connects directly to the Mission District. My room was recently updated, spotless, and had a relaxing bathtub, which I truly appreciated after long days of sightseeing. The TV was clear and modern, adding comfort to my stay. What really stood out was the staff—they were incredibly friendly and went above and beyond by allowing me to park my car a few hours before check-in so I could make it to an early tour I’d booked. It’s rare to find such thoughtful service at this price point. If you’re visiting San Francisco with friends or just want a reliable, affordable base with convenient parking, I highly recommend this place. It’s a gem in a great neighborhood.
Travelodge by Wyndham Presidio San Francisco
This hotel exceeded my expectations in every way. Located just a short walk from downtown San Francisco, it’s perfectly positioned for exploring the city while still enjoying a peaceful, quiet neighborhood. The rooms were spotlessly clean, with comfortable bedding and excellent air conditioning—perfect for a good night's sleep. I appreciated the thoughtful touches like hot water upon arrival and complimentary snacks. The staff were friendly and helpful, making check-in and check-out smooth. With such great value for the price, it felt like a real bargain. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this is an ideal choice. I’ll definitely be staying here again on my next visit to San Francisco.
Buena Vista Motor Inn
Staying at Buena Vista Motor Inn was a really pleasant experience overall. The location is fantastic—quiet, safe, and just a short walk from the marina and several key attractions. The staff were consistently friendly and helpful, even late at night. They went out of their way to assist with parking when things got busy, and handled package deliveries smoothly and efficiently. The only downside was the carpet in our room, which stayed cold and damp throughout our stay due to a leaking air conditioner. We brought it up, but were told it's 'normal'—a bit disappointing, especially since the moisture spread across half the room. That said, we managed by simply wearing shoes inside, so it wasn’t a dealbreaker. For a great value, excellent service, and a peaceful setting, this place definitely earns a solid recommendation.
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