SKIP THE LINE: Exploratorium After Dark Thursdays (18+) Admission

San Francisco



Things Look Different After Dark.

Escape to reality on Thursday nights at the Exploratorium After Dark. Get a little weird at Pier 15 for evenings worth talking about: explore science, art, and culture, then play like no one's watching with more than 650 hands-on exhibits spread across six indoor and outdoor galleries. Disappear into artist Fujiko Nakaya's living cloud on Fog Bridge #72494, or head into Gallery 2: Prototyping, where the museum's own exhibit builders test their newest ideas and invite you to get hands-on with the prototypes yourself.

Journey through total darkness in the twisting, turning, world-famous Tactile Dome. Talk to strangers at trivia nights and dance parties, or get pulled into surprising experiments, performances, demos, and talks. Grab a drink at the full bar, try something new, and go home different. Adults-only (18+), no kids allowed.

The Exploratorium is located at Pier 15 on San Francisco's Embarcadero, just minutes from the Embarcadero BART Station, Pier 39, and the Ferry Building.

Frequently Asked Questions

It is an adults-only (18+) evening event held every Thursday at the Exploratorium featuring more than 650 interactive exhibits exploring perception, art, and science.
The event runs from 6 to 10pm every Thursday night; check the Exploratorium website for current hours.
It takes place at the Exploratorium, located on Pier 15 along San Francisco’s Embarcadero waterfront.
Yes, adults can enjoy drinks available during the event while exploring the exhibits.
No, this event is strictly for adults aged 18 and over.
It is recommended to buy tickets in advance online to skip the line and guarantee entry on busy nights.
Visitors can explore installations like the fog bridge, kaleidoscope, light displays, mind-bending mirrors, and the Tactile Dome.
Yes, the event features adults-only programming including guest speakers, live music, films, and interactive activities.
Yes, the world-famous Tactile Dome is open during the event for visitors to experience total darkness in a twisting, turning environment.
Visit the official Exploratorium website for the most up-to-date information on hours, programming, and ticket options.

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