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4.4-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.
Grand Hyatt San Francisco Union Square
This hotel boasts a prime location right at Union Square, just steps away from theaters, shopping districts, and bustling Chinatown. Hop on a cable car to reach iconic spots like Fisherman’s Wharf and Ghiradelli Square! Perfect for business meetings, romantic getaways, or family trips, it features over 6,700 sqm of versatile space, including 19 meeting rooms and the rooftop Grandviews restaurant, where you can savor French-inspired American cuisine with panoramic bay views. Rooms offer floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing Union Square and the city skyline, plus Hyatt Grand Beds for ultimate comfort!
InterContinental San Francisco
This luxurious hotel in the heart of San Francisco features a stunning 32-story glass tower with panoramic city views, overlooking the vibrant South of Market district. Perfect for both business and leisure, it offers comprehensive amenities including meeting rooms, a fitness center, and a rooftop pool, along with tailored services for Chinese guests. With convenient access to Moscone Convention Center, Union Square, and Chinatown, it's an ideal base for exploring the city.
Taj Campton Place
Nestled in the heart of San Francisco, just steps away from Union Square, this luxurious hotel offers the perfect blend of convenience and comfort. Whether for business or leisure, you'll find everything you need here. Stay active at the 24-hour fitness center, and enjoy free WiFi and concierge services to make your trip seamless. Craving a meal? Bombay Brasserie and the bar/lounge are excellent choices, or opt for 24-hour room service. The hotel also features wedding services and a business center, catering to all occasions. Rooms come with minibars and espresso machines, ensuring a cozy stay.
San Francisco Marriott Union Square
Nestled in the heart of Union Square, this hotel seamlessly blends business and leisure. Just steps away from Lombard Street and Pier 39, its location can't be beat. Unwind at the fitness center or tranquil gardens after a day of exploration. All 401 rooms feature smart TVs and premium toiletries for a touch of luxury. With 3,276 sq ft of versatile event space, it's ideal for weddings or corporate gatherings. Cap off your night with craft cocktails at the chic bar – the perfect urban retreat.
The Clancy, Autograph Collection
Axiom Hotel
Beacon Grand
Hotel Emblem San Francisco
The Marker Union Square San Francisco
Hotel Zephyr Fishermans Wharf San Francisco
Kimpton Hotel Enso
W San Francisco
Club Donatello
Orchard Hotel
The Donatello Hotel
Marriott Vacation Club Pulse, San Francisco
Parker Guest House
Holiday Inn San Francisco-Golden Gateway
Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco
Handlery Union Square Hotel
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
Grand Hyatt San Francisco Union Square
We arrived at the hotel after 10 PM and were hungry, but there wasn't any dining option nearby. Thankfully, the front desk staff—a kind Asian colleague—suggested using Uber Eats for food delivery. It was a lifesaver! My meal arrived just 10 minutes later, exactly when I needed it. The room itself was spotless, spacious enough for our needs, and very comfortable. Everything about the stay felt seamless and well thought out. Excellent service and a great location in Union Square make this hotel a top pick for future visits.
InterContinental San Francisco
Staying at the InterContinental San Francisco was a fantastic experience. The room offered breathtaking views of the bay, and waking up to that sight—especially with the Golden Gate Bridge in the distance—was absolutely unforgettable. The hotel’s location is ideal: just steps away from the Moscone Center and within walking distance of the BART station, making it super convenient for getting around town or heading to the airport. I signed up for IHG Rewards during check-in and received a few small perks—always a nice bonus. Breakfast was pricey at $40 per person, but the quality and variety made it worth it. The amenities included Byredo products, which added a luxurious touch. Overall, this is a solid five-star experience—nothing flashy, but everything executed well. If you can snag a good deal, it's definitely worth considering. Plus, the neighborhood feels safe and walkable, even late at night. A great choice for travelers who want comfort, convenience, and a bit of elegance.
Taj Campton Place
Staying at Taj Campton Place was an absolute delight. From the moment we arrived, the warmth and attention to detail were evident—especially since we were celebrating our anniversary. They surprised us with a delicious bottle of wine, which added such a special touch to the evening. We also appreciated how they stored our luggage early, allowing us to explore the city light and free for our engagement event without any baggage worries. The staff went above and beyond with their kindness—always smiling, helpful, and genuinely attentive. The location is fantastic too, just steps away from shops, restaurants, and public transit. Everything about this stay felt luxurious yet personal. I can’t recommend it enough—it’s one of those rare hotels that truly makes you feel like a guest, not just a customer. Would absolutely return and tell everyone about it.
San Francisco Marriott Union Square
Staying at the San Francisco Marriott Union Square was an absolute delight from start to finish. The room was immaculate—spotless, well-maintained, and incredibly clean, which made the entire experience feel fresh and welcoming. The staff went above and beyond with their warm, attentive service; every request was handled with genuine care and efficiency. What really stood out was the daily $22 credit offered to guests—perfect for enjoying a delicious breakfast or dinner in-house without breaking the bank. Plus, each guest received a complimentary one-way cable car ticket, with the pickup point right across the street from the hotel (just past the Starbucks on the corner). Riding it all the way to Fisherman’s Wharf was such a fun and scenic way to explore the city. Location-wise, it’s unbeatable—Union Square is just a 2-minute walk away, and both Chinatown and Japantown are easily accessible on foot. There’s also a small convenience store right across the street from the hotel entrance, making late-night snacks or essentials super easy. One thing I appreciated deeply: the stretch between the hotel and Union Square feels noticeably safe, with almost no visible unhoused individuals—a huge plus for nighttime strolls. While I’d still recommend avoiding very late walks, it’s reassuring to know the area feels secure. Overall, this hotel delivers exceptional value, comfort, and peace of mind. Highly recommended for travelers who want a central, clean, and friendly base in San Francisco.
The Clancy, Autograph Collection
Staying at The Clancy, Autograph Collection was an absolute highlight of my trip to San Francisco. The room was spacious and incredibly comfortable, with stunning views of the city skyline right from the window—especially magical at sunset. Located in the heart of downtown, it’s just a short walk or quick subway ride away from Fisherman’s Wharf, making exploration easy and convenient. The breakfast buffet was outstanding—fresh fruit, local pastries, hot dishes, and coffee that kept me energized all morning. Every detail felt thoughtfully curated, from the elegant design to the friendly staff. It’s not just a place to stay—it’s a true experience. I’d highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting San Francisco.
Axiom Hotel
Staying at Axiom Hotel was an absolute delight! Right outside the door is the trolley bus terminal and subway station, making transportation to anywhere in San Francisco incredibly convenient. The hotel itself is spotlessly clean with a fresh, modern vibe. I was especially impressed by the spacious bathroom—so much room compared to other hotels I've stayed in. One standout feature is the water dispensers on every floor; you can refill your bottle anytime instead of relying on bottled water. It's eco-friendly, cost-effective, and super practical. For travelers who value convenience, cleanliness, and thoughtful touches like this, Axiom Hotel is a top-tier choice. I’d stay here again without hesitation.
Beacon Grand
I’ve stayed at this hotel multiple times now, and it consistently exceeds my expectations. In a city like San Francisco where space and value are at a premium, the experience here feels truly exceptional. The staff is warm, attentive, and genuinely goes the extra mile—on one occasion, I was upgraded to a larger room with a stunning view, which made the stay even more memorable. The location is unbeatable: just steps away from Union Square, with easy access to public transit, shopping, dining, and major attractions. What stands out most is the incredible value for money—luxury amenities, top-tier service, and a welcoming atmosphere all wrapped up in one. It’s not just a place to sleep; it’s a home away from home. Definitely my go-to choice whenever I’m back in the city.
Hotel Emblem San Francisco
The room size was just right—spacious enough without feeling empty, and very comfortable for a city stay. The front desk staff went above and beyond with their warm, friendly service; check-in was smooth and welcoming. I especially loved the lounge area—it’s cozy, stylish, and perfect for unwinding after a long day. Their cocktail selection is fantastic, and I highly recommend trying one of their signature drinks. It’s not just a hotel; it feels like a home away from home. Perfect for both business travelers and tourists looking for a quiet retreat in the heart of San Francisco.
The Marker Union Square San Francisco
Staying at The Marker Union Square San Francisco was an absolute delight—way beyond my expectations! The room is compact, but every inch is thoughtfully designed with a charming vintage flair that really sets the mood. The bedding was incredibly clean and comfortable, making for a restful night’s sleep. The staff went above and beyond with their warm hospitality—always smiling, helpful, and attentive without being intrusive. While breakfast comes at a fee, it’s worth it for the quality and variety. And if you're on a budget, don’t miss the complimentary coffee—perfect for starting the day right. The location is unbeatable, just steps from Union Square, with easy access to public transit and all the city’s best spots. It’s a fantastic blend of style, comfort, and convenience. I’d definitely book again—this place truly delivers!
Hotel Zephyr Fishermans Wharf San Francisco
Staying at Hotel Zephyr Fishermans Wharf was a fantastic experience, especially because of the location just steps away from Pier 39. Even late at night, I felt completely safe—there was always a security guard stationed right in front of the hotel. The rooms are spacious, well-designed, and clean, with plenty of options to choose from. It’s clear that comfort and safety were top priorities in the design. I loved how convenient it was for exploring downtown San Francisco and nearby attractions. Highly recommend this place for travelers who value both comfort and security.
Kimpton Hotel Enso
Staying at Kimpton Hotel Enso was an absolute delight from the moment I arrived. The room was immaculate—spotless, well-organized, and thoughtfully designed with a perfect balance of comfort and style. What truly stood out, though, was how clean the streets surrounding the hotel were. Walking through the neighborhood felt refreshing and surprisingly pristine, especially compared to other parts of San Francisco where litter is more common. Even as I walked further away from the area, I noticed trash accumulating, but right around this Japanese district? Not a single piece of litter in sight. It’s clear the community takes pride in maintaining such a clean, welcoming environment. Whether you're exploring on foot or just relaxing nearby, the sense of cleanliness and care really enhances the overall experience. A standout gem in the city with exceptional attention to detail—definitely worth returning to.
W San Francisco
Staying at the W San Francisco was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The hotel is perfectly located—just a short walk or quick subway ride from downtown and all the main attractions. All the amenities you’d expect are here, and I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the in-house drinking water—clean, fresh, and totally free of any odd taste. While there’s no private parking on-site, the nearby public lot charges $26 for 12 hours, capped at $35 after that, which feels fair for the location. Breakfast was a nice touch—not buffet-style but a menu-based selection. If you book with breakfast through the platform, you can choose your favorite dish, and I highly recommend the berry toast—it’s delicious, light, and just the right amount of sweetness. Cleanliness and staff service were both top-notch. Yes, there are some homeless individuals around the area, but overall, the neighborhood felt safe and manageable. Great vibe, excellent value, and definitely worth recommending.
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