The Exploratorium is one of the best science museums in the country, now housed in a stunning waterfront location on Pier 15. Hundreds of hands-on exhibits cover everything from light and sound to weather and biology. It is fantastic for kids but genuinely engaging for adults too -- you can easily spend half a day here.
The Thursday evening events (ages 18+) are a local favorite, with cocktails, DJ sets, and experimental exhibits in a more grown-up atmosphere.