The Exploratorium is famous for its interactive ex...

The Exploratorium is famous for its interactive exhibits, and deservedly so. Each one is a stand-alone experience, blending art with science in varying degrees. Some are designed to teach you about a specific phenomenon; some are meant to be thought-provoking or beautiful; some are simply meant to be silly and fun; and some are a combination. The Exploratorium strives most of all to show people how fun and rewarding it can be to truly engage with and learn about the world around you. No one is too young or old, too educated or too ignorant to be able to take something away from the experience of a visit. I would recommend no activity more highly in the Bay Area than a visit to the Exploratorium.

Some tips: visitors wanting to avoid crowds would do best to come in the afternoon on a weekday. Adults wanting something geared more towards them should absolutely check out the Thursday night programming, which is stellar. Parking is available but expensive, so I advise taking BART to Embarcadero and walking the 10 or 20 minutes from there (or taking the F streetcar, if you're feeling a little touristy). If you have the time, go through the Tactile Dome. You have to pay extra and make a reservation, but it's an experience quite unlike anything else (and that's all I'll say). There are two cafes, one at the front which is cheaper and has a smaller menu, and one at the back which is pricier but has more options and a spectacular Bay view.

Next time you're wondering what to do with your day off, come to the Exploratorium. You can come here once a week for a year and still have a new experience every time.