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4.6-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.
Four Seasons Hotel Embarcadero
This hotel is a perfect blend of luxury and convenience for both families and business travelers! Nestled in the heart of San Francisco, it’s just steps away from Fisherman’s Wharf and Union Square. The breathtaking city views from its elegant rooms and suites are unmatched. Relax at the private spa or hit the 24/7 fitness center with top-notch equipment. Traveling with kids? Enjoy childcare services and kid-friendly meals, plus perks like valet parking and shuttle service. As a 2024 award-winning hotel, it’s a must-stay—book your getaway now!
The Fairmont Heritage Place Ghirardelli Square
This luxury apartment in San Francisco offers one, two, or three-bedroom options to suit your needs. With Fairmont's world-class service, you'll feel right at home. The hotel features dryers, a fitness center, and valet parking, plus a picnic area for outdoor enjoyment. Whether for business or leisure, it meets all your expectations. A 2024 listed hotel, it's definitely worth a stay!
The St. Regis San Francisco
This Forbes-listed luxury gem in San Francisco’s SoMa district puts you steps away from culture, sports, and dining hotspots. Redesigned rooms and suites blend modern elegance with comfort, while amenities like the pool and fitness center ensure relaxation. Perfect for business trips or family getaways, with thoughtful touches like kids’ meals and laundry services. Unwind at the bar after exploring nearby attractions. With stellar service and prime location, it’s a stay you’ll remember.
Neighbourgood Sutter Mansion
Dreaming of a Victorian-style getaway in San Francisco? This luxury hotel features 12 cozy rooms with Italian Frette linens and premium toiletries for a five-star sleep! Just 5 minutes from Lombard Street and Palace of Fine Arts, with a 24-hour fitness center to keep you energized. Business travelers will love the conference facilities and concierge service, while road trippers appreciate the paid parking. Sip your morning coffee on the terrace and enjoy express check-out - your perfect urban retreat awaits!
Omni San Francisco
Looking for luxury in the heart of San Francisco? This upscale hotel won't disappoint! Just 5 minutes from Ferry Building and Moscone Center, it's perfectly located. Enjoy 24-hour fitness center, stylish bar, and business facilities—ideal for work or leisure. Rooms feature premium bedding and designer toiletries for ultimate comfort. Traveling with kids? Childcare services and kids' meals make family trips a breeze!
Hyatt Regency San Francisco
Located in the heart of San Francisco, this hotel is just minutes away from the Embarcadero Center! Enjoy the 24-hour fitness center and bike rentals to stay active during your trip. Family-friendly amenities like kids' meals and childcare services make it perfect for all ages. Business travelers will appreciate the meeting spaces and express check-in. Rooms feature smart TVs and luxurious bedding for ultimate comfort. Don't forget to unwind at the bar/lounge after a busy day exploring the city!
Hotel Nikko San Francisco
This luxury hotel is perfectly located in the heart of San Francisco, just a 4-minute walk to Union Square. Enjoy top-notch amenities like the indoor pool, sauna, and spa, plus a fitness center to stay active. With Chinese-friendly services, you'll feel right at home. Dine at one of the two on-site restaurants or unwind at the bar. Business travelers will appreciate the well-equipped meeting rooms and business center. Rooms feature premium toiletries and plush duvets for a comfortable stay.
The Jay, Autograph Collection
Huntington Hotel
Suites at Fisherman's Wharf
Marriott Vacation Club®, San Francisco
Chapter San Francisco
The Metro Hotel
The Willows Inn
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
Four Seasons Hotel Embarcadero
Staying in room 4105 was an absolute highlight of my trip to San Francisco. The view from the window is nothing short of spectacular—Transamerica Pyramid, Coit Tower, Alcatraz Island, and even the Golden Gate Bridge all within sight. What truly stood out, though, was the personal touch: every staff member greeted me by name, making me feel genuinely recognized and valued. It’s been a long time since I’ve experienced service this thoughtful and warm. From check-in to check-out, every interaction felt seamless and genuine. Plus, being just steps away from the BART station makes getting around the city a breeze. This hotel isn’t just luxurious—it’s unforgettable. I’ll definitely be back.
The Fairmont Heritage Place Ghirardelli Square
I've visited San Francisco multiple times over the years and stayed at several upscale hotels, but this one truly stands out as the best experience I've had in the city. The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of Ghirardelli Square, steps away from great dining, shopping, and iconic sights. The room was spacious, beautifully designed, and impeccably clean. Staff went above and beyond to make my stay memorable with genuine hospitality. From the moment I arrived to the time I left, everything felt seamless and luxurious. This isn't just a hotel—it's an experience. I'll definitely be returning and highly recommend it to anyone visiting San Francisco.
The St. Regis San Francisco
The St. Regis San Francisco is an exceptional choice for a stay in San Francisco. Located just steps from downtown, it’s incredibly convenient—whether you’re heading to the financial district, Union Square, or nearby attractions, everything is within easy reach. The room was spacious and elegantly designed, with a comfortable bed that made for a restful night's sleep. The staff went above and beyond with their attention to detail and warm hospitality. From check-in to checkout, every interaction felt personalized and seamless. It’s clear this hotel values guest experience, and I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone visiting the city.
Neighbourgood Sutter Mansion
Staying at Neighbourgood Sutter Mansion in Lower Pacific Heights was an absolute delight. The staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome, anticipating needs before we even asked. The property itself is beautifully renovated with a warm, inviting atmosphere. Our room was cozy, quiet, and perfectly appointed—ideal for a relaxing stay. The full breakfast menu offered delicious options, from fresh pastries to hearty mains, all served with a smile. We’ve already decided this will be our go-to choice whenever we visit San Francisco again. Truly one of the best experiences we’ve had on the West Coast.
Omni San Francisco
Staying at the Omni San Francisco felt like stepping into a timeless, elegant retreat. The hotel exudes old-money charm from the moment you arrive—the exterior is classic and sophisticated, while the interior design is equally refined, with rich wood accents, luxurious fabrics, and a calm, tasteful ambiance throughout. Every detail in the room speaks to quality: plush bedding, high-end finishes, and thoughtful touches that make you feel instantly at home—yet still indulged. Located just steps away from public transit, it’s incredibly convenient for exploring downtown San Francisco. Restaurants, shops, and attractions are all within easy reach, yet the hotel maintains a peaceful, secluded vibe. It’s not just a place to stay—it’s an experience. For travelers who appreciate understated luxury and a serene atmosphere, this is truly a standout choice.
Hyatt Regency San Francisco
Staying at Hyatt Regency San Francisco was a fantastic experience. The location is incredibly convenient—right next to the streetcar stop, making it easy to get around downtown without needing a car. Parking is available at the adjacent parking garage, just a 3-5 minute walk from the hotel. It's well-marked and easy to find, with levels 3 and 4 both being accessible. What stood out most was the parking fee: capped at $37 for 24 hours, which is half the price of many other hotels in the city. Plus, unlike some properties that charge mandatory resort fees, Hyatt offers a daily $20 credit toward breakfast or drinks at the bar—no extra cost. Breakfast prices are reasonable: $20 for kids, $40 for adults (before taxes), and the quality and variety were great. Overall, this hotel delivers excellent value, comfort, and convenience—perfect for travelers who want a hassle-free stay in San Francisco.
Hotel Nikko San Francisco
Staying at Hotel Nikko San Francisco was an absolutely wonderful experience from start to finish. During breakfast, I went to grab an extra serving of fruit and noticed that the dishes left on the table had already been cleared—slightly surprising at first, but I’m sure it was just a misunderstanding since we hadn’t fully left yet. A quick verbal note like 'We’re still here' would’ve helped avoid any confusion. That said, it didn’t take away from the overall great impression. What truly stood out was the evening check-out for my late-night flight. I called an Uber, but felt uneasy about walking outside the hotel due to the area’s vibe. Thankfully, a staff member walked me all the way to the car and stayed until I was safely inside. That small gesture made me feel incredibly safe and valued. The level of hospitality throughout the entire stay was exceptional—thoughtful, attentive, and genuinely warm. This isn’t just a hotel; it’s a place where you feel cared for. I’ll definitely be back.
The Jay, Autograph Collection
My stay at The Jay was absolutely outstanding. From the moment I arrived, the staff went above and beyond—friendly, attentive, and genuinely professional. I’m particular about cleanliness and bed comfort, and this hotel completely surpassed my expectations on both fronts. Waking up to that breathtaking view from the room was an instant mood booster. Getting around town was a breeze—whether walking through the vibrant neighborhoods or hopping on Waymo for a quick ride, everything felt seamless. The whole experience was elevated by the hotel’s modern elegance and thoughtful touches. It’s rare to find such a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and charm. I’ll definitely be back.
Suites at Fisherman's Wharf
If you're planning a trip to San Francisco and want to be right in the heart of the action, this hotel is an absolute gem. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from Fisherman's Wharf, Pier 39, Chinatown, and all the sights you’d want to see. Public transit is also super accessible, making it easy to explore the city without needing a car. The staff went above and beyond with their friendly and helpful service—they truly made our stay special. Our room was much larger than we expected, spotlessly clean, and well-designed with smart use of space. But the real highlight? The rooftop patio. Stunning panoramic views of the bay, perfect for sunset drinks. We especially loved the complimentary glass of wine offered each evening—such a thoughtful touch. This place feels like a hidden local favorite. Highly recommended for travelers who value convenience, comfort, and a little luxury.
The Metro Hotel
My one-night stay at The Metro Hotel was absolutely excellent. Perfect for solo travelers or couples looking to stay 1–3 nights, this place offers an unbeatable location—everything from restaurants to convenience stores is within walking distance. I loved the charming, boutique-style vibe that reminded me of a cozy European hideaway. The only downside? No elevator—rooms are up a steep flight of stairs. This might not be ideal for elderly guests or those with mobility issues. But aside from that, the ambiance, cleanliness, and attention to detail made it feel like a true gem in the heart of San Francisco. Highly recommend for travelers who value location and character over convenience features.
The Willows Inn
The Willows Inn is one of the few clean, well-maintained, and reasonably priced options in San Francisco’s Castro neighborhood. The staff are consistently friendly and accommodating, always ready to help with anything you might need. While the bathroom and shower facilities are shared and located in the hallway—something we usually prefer to avoid—the setup works surprisingly well. We’ve never had to wait for access, and the cleanliness is excellent. The included breakfast is generous and satisfying. Having stayed here multiple times over the years, we genuinely appreciate the value and charm this place offers. If you’re looking for a comfortable, authentic stay in the heart of Castro, The Willows Inn is absolutely worth considering.
Lombard Inn
The Lombard Inn is a solid choice if you're looking for a no-frills stay in San Francisco. The rooms are clean and the beds are surprisingly comfortable—perfect for a good night's rest. While the decor and furnishings feel a bit dated, they’re still functional and adequately maintained. One thing worth mentioning is that the hallways had a slight musty odor, likely due to the carpets needing a deep clean. That said, it’s an easy fix and doesn’t detract much from the overall experience. I’d recommend this hotel for travelers who prioritize comfort and convenience over modern design. It’s a reliable option with great value, especially if you're on a budget.
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