The Exploratorium

Scientific American magazine rated the Exploratorium "the best science museum in the world" -- and I couldn't agree more. Inside you'll find hundreds of exhibits that give you hands-on access to everything from giant-bubble blowing to Einstein's theory of relativity. It's like a mad scientist's penny arcade, an educational fun house, and an experimental laboratory all rolled into one. Touch a tornado, shape a glowing electrical current, or take a sensory journey in total darkness in the Tactile Dome ($3 extra, and call tel. 415/561-0362 to make advance reservations) -- even if you spent all day here you couldn't experience everything. Every exhibit at the Exploratorium is designed to be interactive, educational, safe, and, most importantly, fun. And don't think it's just for kids; parents inevitably end up being the most reluctant to leave. I went here recently and spent 3 hours in just one small section of the museum, marveling at all the mind-blowing hands-on exhibits related to light and eyesight. On the way out, be sure to stop in the wonderful gift store, which is chock-full of affordable brain candy.

The museum is in the Marina District at the beautiful Palace of Fine Arts, the only building left standing from the Panama Pacific Exposition of 1915. The adjoining park with lagoon -- the perfect place for an afternoon picnic -- is home to ducks, swans, sea gulls, and grouchy geese, so bring bread.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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