Science & technology museums in San Francisco

The Exploratorium is a museum of science, technology, and arts in San Francisco, United States. It is characterized as a 'mad scientist's playground, a scientific funhouse, and an experimental laboratory, all in one.' The participatory nature of its exhibits and its self-identification as a center for informal learning has led it to be cited as the prototype for participatory museums worldwide.

The California Academy of Sciences, located in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, California, is a unique blend of a science academy and a natural history museum. It features a planetarium, an artificial rainforest, and a large aquatic area. This combination of features offers visitors a diverse and comprehensive experience, allowing them to explore various aspects of natural history and science in one place.

The USS Pampanito (SS-383) is a historic submarine that played a significant role in the Pacific War during World War II. It is now a museum ship located at Fisherman’s Wharf in the port of San Francisco. Visitors can explore this Balao class submarine and learn about its history and the role it played during the war.

The Cable Car Museum is located in the Nob Hill neighborhood of San Francisco, California. This museum is free to enter, making it an accessible option for tourists of all budgets. It offers a unique insight into the history and workings of the city's iconic cable car system.

The SS Jeremiah O'Brien is typically docked at Pier 45 in the Port of San Francisco, California, where it is open for public viewing. It holds the distinction of being one of the few remaining ships that participated in Operation Overlord on D-Day during World War II. This makes it a unique and tangible piece of history that visitors can explore and learn from.

The Children's Creativity Museum, located in Yerba Buena Gardens in San Francisco, California, is an interactive museum designed for children aged 2–12 years. It provides a unique and engaging environment where children can explore and express their creativity through various interactive exhibits and workshops.

The San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, located in San Francisco, California, is a comprehensive destination for maritime history enthusiasts. The park features a collection of historic vessels, a visitor center, a maritime museum, and a library/research facility. These facilities provide a deep dive into the maritime history of the region and offer a unique experience for visitors.

The Balclutha is a U.S. National Historic Landmark and is currently preserved at the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park in San Francisco, California. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on 7 November 1976. This ship is a testament to the rich maritime history of the region and offers a unique glimpse into the past.

The San Francisco Railway Museum is situated in the South of Market area of San Francisco. This location is easily accessible and is in close proximity to other popular tourist destinations in the city. The museum's location makes it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the city.

The American Bookbinders Museum, located in San Francisco, California, is a small, not-for-profit institution dedicated to the artistry, history, and craft of bookbinding. This unique museum provides an in-depth look into the intricate process of bookbinding, showcasing its evolution and significance throughout history.

SF-88, located in the Marin Headlands north of San Francisco, California, is a former Nike Missile launch site at Fort Barry. This historical site offers a unique glimpse into the past, specifically the Cold War era. It was initially opened in 1954 with the purpose of protecting the population and military installations of the San Francisco Bay Area from potential Soviet bomber aircraft attacks.

The Randall Museum, located in central San Francisco, California, is a unique institution owned and operated by the San Francisco Recreation & Parks Department, with the support of the Randall Friends. This museum offers a diverse range of exhibits and activities, making it an interesting destination for tourists of all ages.

The Academy of Art University Automobile Museum is a non-profit institution situated in the vibrant city of San Francisco, California. The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of automobiles, making it an interesting destination for car enthusiasts and history buffs alike.