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<3-Star 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.
Inn San Francisco
ITH San Francisco Pacific Tradewinds Backpacker Hostel
Comfort Inn by the Bay
Holiday Inn Express San Francisco Union Square
Chapter San Francisco
Chapter San Francisco
The Metro Hotel
Powell Place
Lombard Plaza Motel
Amsterdam Hostel
HI San Francisco Fisherman's Wharf Hostel
Coventry Motor Inn
San Remo Hotel
Ansonia Hotel - Hostel
The Willows Inn
Castle Inn
HI San Francisco Downtown Hostel
Royal Pacific Motor Inn
Inn On Grove
Mayflower 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
Inn San Francisco
Staying at Inn San Francisco was an absolute delight! The room was immaculately clean, with every corner spotless and well-maintained—no dust, no mess, just pure comfort. The bed was incredibly cozy, making for a restful night's sleep and a refreshing morning. The staff were beyond friendly and attentive, always smiling and ready to help with anything. Their warmth made the whole experience feel personal and welcoming. The Wi-Fi connection was lightning fast—perfect for streaming or working remotely—and the air conditioning kept the room perfectly cool without being too cold. Parking was convenient, and the location is ideal for exploring downtown San Francisco. With great dining options nearby and excellent value for money, this place truly stands out. I’ll definitely be back!
ITH San Francisco Pacific Tradewinds Backpacker Hostel
This backpacker hostel is a hidden gem in San Francisco—small but full of charm and great energy. Even though it's compact, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it easy to connect with fellow travelers. The owner is super friendly and organizes daily activities like local tours, game nights, and group dinners, so you never feel alone on your trip. Rooms are clean, well-maintained, and the shared spaces are always tidy—definitely above average for a hostel. It’s perfectly located near public transit, just a short ride from major attractions like Fisherman’s Wharf and Golden Gate Bridge. Bonus: there’s a fantastic Hunan restaurant right downstairs—authentic flavors and great value. Just mention the hostel name when ordering, and you’ll get a discount! If you’re looking for an affordable, social, and well-run stay in SF, this place is absolutely worth booking. I’d definitely come back.
Comfort Inn by the Bay
The hotel is perfectly located—just a short walk from downtown San Francisco, with great access to public transit and plenty of nearby dining options. The staff are warm and welcoming, making check-in and check-out smooth. Rooms are spacious and impeccably clean, offering plenty of room to relax after a long day exploring the city. The only minor drawback is that the windows are a bit outdated and don’t insulate well—occasionally moisture builds up, but it’s not enough to ruin the experience. Overall, this is an outstanding value for the price, especially given the central location and the range of amenities provided. I’d highly recommend it for families, weekend getaways, or business travelers looking for comfort and convenience without the premium price.
Holiday Inn Express San Francisco Union Square
Staying at the Holiday Inn Express San Francisco Union Square was an absolute delight. The hotel is incredibly close to the convention center—just a short walk away, making it perfect for business travelers. Right outside the door is the iconic cable car stop, so hopping on for a quick ride and snapping some photos is super easy. You can also reach famous spots like Lombard Street and the waterfront with just one cable car ride—definitely worth it! I highly recommend getting a day pass for $14; it’s affordable and gives you unlimited rides throughout the day. The room was clean, comfortable, and the staff were friendly and helpful. Overall, this hotel offers great value and unbeatable location—perfect for exploring San Francisco without hassle.
Chapter San Francisco
Staying at Chapter San Francisco was a fantastic experience. The hotel is impeccably clean and conveniently located near a major thoroughfare, making it easy to get around the city. I especially appreciated the luggage storage area and the cozy lounge—perfect for relaxing before check-in or waiting for my airport transfer. The ambiance is modern and welcoming, with thoughtful touches throughout. It’s clear the team cares about guest comfort. Highly recommend this gem for travelers looking for style, convenience, and a peaceful vibe.
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.
Powell Place
Had a fantastic stay at Powell Place! This historic property truly stands out with its unique charm and prime location right along the cable car route—perfect for exploring San Francisco on foot or hopping on the iconic streetcars. The neighborhood is vibrant, walkable, and full of character. Our room was spacious, beautifully appointed, and immaculately clean—every detail felt thoughtfully designed. The staff went above and beyond to make our visit special, offering helpful tips and warm hospitality. We were able to easily explore downtown SF and nearby attractions, all within walking distance. From start to finish, it was an unforgettable experience. I’d absolutely stay here again—highly recommend for anyone looking for a stylish, authentic stay in the heart of the city.
Lombard Plaza Motel
Staying at Lombard Plaza Motel was an absolute delight! The room was spotlessly clean and had all the essentials I needed—comfortable bed, good lighting, and a nice-sized bathroom. What really stood out was the location: it's perfectly situated for exploring downtown San Francisco. Just a short walk to Chinatown and a quick ride on the Muni to Golden Gate Bridge. The free parking is a game-changer—especially since I could keep my car parked for half a day the next morning, which gave me total flexibility to wander around, grab coffee, or do some casual city walking without rushing. No need to stress about parking fees or logistics. This place offers such great value for the price. I’d definitely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting the city.
HI San Francisco Fisherman's Wharf Hostel
Staying at HI San Francisco Fisherman's Wharf Hostel was an absolute highlight of my trip! Located right on a hilltop, the hostel offers a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the city just a short walk down to Fort Mason Park. The nearby Safeway is only about 8 minutes away—perfect for grabbing essentials without having to go far. I especially loved the Equator Coffee shop just around the corner; great coffee and a cozy vibe. My bunk bed was surprisingly comfortable, and the hostel provided clean towels and sheets—no extra hassle. The staff were friendly, helpful, and always ready to assist. If I ever return to this area, I’d definitely book here again—great location, excellent amenities, and unbeatable value. Plus, Fisherman’s Wharf is just a 15–20 minute walk downhill, making it easy to explore all the sights. There are plenty of charging stations in the lobby, and near the Franco café area, there’s a dedicated desk space with multiple outlets—ideal for travelers working or staying connected. Overall, this hostel delivers comfort, convenience, and a welcoming atmosphere. A top pick for any budget-conscious traveler visiting San Francisco!
Coventry Motor Inn
The staff at Coventry Motor Inn were incredibly friendly and full of humor—right from check-in, it felt like we were welcomed by friends. The front desk is conveniently located right next to the parking area, which made everything super easy. Plus, having on-site parking attendants gave us peace of mind, especially when driving late at night. Everything we wanted was just a 10-15 minute drive away—great for exploring nearby attractions without hassle. And if you prefer walking, there are plenty of local restaurants and cozy cafes within easy reach. This place offers an unbeatable mix of convenience, comfort, and charm. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to anyone visiting San Francisco.
San Remo Hotel
I absolutely loved my stay at San Remo Hotel—truly a gem in San Francisco’s historic landscape. The moment I walked in, I was struck by the stunning stained glass windows and intricate woodwork that give the place such character. Each room is uniquely furnished with antique pieces and original artwork—no two rooms are alike, which made the experience feel special and personal. The staff went above and beyond; they were warm, attentive, and genuinely seemed to care about guests’ comfort. Free coffee was excellent, and every bathroom came stocked with toiletries—no need to pack shampoo or soap. I was nervous about shared facilities, but it turned out to be surprisingly smooth and private: each shower and toilet has its own enclosed room with a lockable door. No one ever interrupted me, and privacy was never an issue. Location-wise, it’s unbeatable—there’s a classy Italian restaurant downstairs, Trader Joe’s just a block away, and Fisherman’s Wharf is only a few blocks farther. Coit Tower and the famous zig-zag of Lombard Street are both within walking distance. I can’t recommend this place enough—it’s charming, convenient, and full of personality. I’m already planning my return visit.
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.
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