With summer on the horizon, we’ve curated a list of Bay Area science museums perfect for escaping the heat. These special places are great to check out solo, with friends, or with family. As temperatures creep up, cool off and get inspired by the natural world and learn how you can protect it.
- California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco
You’ll never guess that at the heart of Golden Gate Park is an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and history museum. The CalAcademy offers exhibits and fun for explorers of all ages. Keep the exploration going after you’ve left via their live cams featuring penguins, indoor coral reefs, and a remote cam at the Farallon Islands! - Exploratorium, San Francisco
Take your imagination out to play in the heart of the Bay! This summer, check out the Extraordinary! Exhibit. Watch nine artists transform LEGO© pieces, shoes, cardboard, and other everyday things into stunning and imaginative installations. Through September 8, 2024, explore your inner artist-scientist with hands-on DIY building and programs for all ages. - Bay Area Discovery Museum, Sausalito
Each day, this bayside museum offers more than six free STEM and Art programs. From earthquake testing to a mud kitchen, there’s something for all children to explore. With stunning views of the Bay, it’s also a great place to celebrate birthdays. - di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art, Napa
The power of art and nature come together featuring Bay Area artists. This center is a perfect place to learn about local creativity inspired by the natural world right here in our area. From tours to artist talks and nature summer camps for children, you won’t want to miss this destination for art and nature lovers. - Children’s Museum of Sonoma County, Santa Rosa
Level up your playtime with over 30 interactive exhibits like “Flavortown” Kids Cafe and Kitchen, Space Odyssey, and the Wind Vortex. This year, the museum is offering Sensory Friendly Afternoons exclusively for children with sensory processing differences and their families or caregivers. Catch them every second Tuesday of the month. - Western Railway Museum, Suisun City
Picturesque electric trains and streetcars are a staple of the San Francisco Bay Area. Dive into the world of electric railway transportation as the perfect half day adventure to explore Solano County. With over 50 historic cars on display, 50-minute scenic train rides, and 22 acres to explore, this museum is ideal for families and group outings. - Lindsay Wildlife Experience, Walnut Creek
For wildlife lovers or the wildlife curious, this place is ideal to learn about living in harmony with nature. As our population grows, this special place is helping people interact with wildlife to inspire us to protect the species around us. There’s an on-site wildlife hospital and special events for everyone ¾ children, teens, and adults!
Many Bay Area public libraries offer free or low-cost passes to local museums through Discover & Go. If you haven’t already, get a library card and explore museums, science centers, zoos, theaters, and other cultural destinations. Happy exploring!
