San Francisco is one of those U.S. cities that keeps visitors coming back year after year. With the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Cable Cars and the Golden National Recreation Area, you may be surprised to know that San Francisco offers some other amazing cultural attractions. For some educational fun and hands-on learning, try some of the following sites:
The Exploratorium in San Francisco
- With interactive, hands-on exhibits and challenging projects, people of all ages love the Exploratorium. From the science of music to exploring microscopic living cells, there is something for every interest. The Exploratorium is designed to spark curiosity and awaken a desire to learn more about the world around you. This is no average science museum. With exhibits, digital libraries, films, classrooms, and much more, you will be interacting all day with many areas of science. Prepare to be amazed!
California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco
- With exhibits focusing on the natural world, the California Academy of Sciences puts you in touch with biology, astronomy, earth issues, aquatic life, and more. There are several parts to The Academy, and you can visit each part. Inside the Natural History Museum, you can learn about subjects ranging from ants to astrobiology. At the Morrison Planetarium, see a one-of-a-kind star projector and a planetarium show. And, Steinhart Aquarium puts you face-to-face with amazing sea life, lets you get up-close and personal with sea creatures, and gives you information in a Sea Guide. This comprehensive science complex will keep you busy and fascinate you.
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
- Housed in a building that is a work of art itself, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) features over 14,000 pieces of artwork by artists such as Georgia O'Keefe, Jackson Pollock, Andy Warhol, and Pablo Picasso. There are four floors to this gallery, and so much interesting artwork to view. There are often special traveling exhibits and special events. Those who love modern art should not miss this famous museum. There is also a museum store and restaurant on the property.
Asian Art Museum in San Francisco
- With an emphasis on Chinese ceramics, the Asian Art Museum actually houses art from over 40 countries such as India, Iraq, Thailand, China, and Korea. It is one of the largest museums in the western world dedicated to Asian art. There are demonstrations and tours, as well as exhibits set up with common themes running throughout. The collection has over 14,000 objects and pieces, in just about every medium. The pieces in this museum are often featured in books and articles, so don't miss your chance to see this unique collection.
