Science Lessons in San Francisco, CA

Science offers a unique lens through which we can understand the world around us. Each field has its own methods and perspectives, but they all contribute to a greater understanding of our universe. From Chemistry to Engineering, students will discover that there are many ways to explore the world through different kinds of science. Exploring these fields can spark curiosity and innovation, making science an exciting adventure!

Calling all Mighty Makers! 🛠️ Are you ready to design, build, and innovate? Join us for a day of hands-on STEM challenges where you’ll create everything from towering structures to clever machines. Put your critical thinking skills to work and see what happens when creativity meets science. Sign up today and let the building begin!

Spark a lifelong interest in the sciences with our immersive chemistry workshop. Young scientists will explore fundamental concepts—including acid-base chemistry and pH balance—through hands-on experimentation. By observing color-changing reactions and material transformations, campers will develop a deeper understanding of how the world is built. Join us in the lab to discover the fascinating power of chemical reactions.

Don't toss that bottle! In this awesome session, we're transforming everyday recyclables – plastic bottles, cardboard boxes, caps, tubes, and more – into incredible inventions! Become an eco-inventor as you reimagine "junk" to build amazing robots, unique games, helpful gadgets, or anything else your imagination cooks up. Along the way, we'll explore the science behind the materials – why is cardboard strong? Why is plastic flexible or waterproof? Discover the secrets of materials science while designing cool, planet-friendly creations. Unleash your creativity and learn the power of resourcefulness!

The universe is calling! Join our Space Odyssey to uncover the science and history behind humanity's greatest frontier. Students will explore the evolution of space travel, investigating how space shuttles function and how astronauts survive—and thrive—aboard the International Space Station. We’ll go beyond the atmosphere to study the moon, the planets, and the celestial bodies that make up our incredible solar system. Through the stories of pioneering scientists and hands-on exploration, young STEMful explorers will gain a new perspective on our place in the galaxy. Your mission begins here!

Ignite your curiosity aboard the 'Curiosity' Rocket as we embark on a stellar space mission. Students will journey to the moon to study lunar craters and delve into the science of astrobiology. This hands-on experience allows STEMful astronauts to explore the mechanics of our solar system, the life cycle of stars, and the unique characteristics that make Mars Earth’s 'sister planet.' Note: Aftercare runs until 5:30 PM on 12/28–12/30, and until 4:00 PM on 12/31.

Discover the power of numbers! This interactive workshop helps students recognize the vital role mathematics plays in our daily lives. Through gamified learning and exploration, participants will master numerical sequences and explore the logic of counting. The experience wraps up with an exciting, data-driven science project that bridges the gap between math and discovery.

Discover the fascinating intersection of acoustics and engineering. In this workshop, students will investigate the physics of sound, learning how vibrations travel to create the music we love. Through the lens of 'Musical STEMology,' we will analyze the mathematical patterns in rhythm and harmony, utilize digital technology to create soundscapes, and apply engineering principles to design custom instruments. Join us for an acoustic exploration of how science brings sound to life. Note: Aftercare runs until 5:30 PM on 12/21–12/23, and until 4:00 PM on 12/24.

In our STEM LEGO® class we use LEGO® bricks to teach concepts of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through a play-based model of learning. Kids construct a unique model each week using project instructions and LEGO kits. All models are interactive and classes are thematically linked to deepen and support a child’s understanding and vocabulary for STEM concepts. Each session covers new topics/subjects. Topics and discussions are geared for our younger TK, Kinders, and 1st graders. Free-play time rounds outs the class giving our students an opportunity to develop their creativity.

How does the brain translate a scent into a memory or a vibration into music? Our five senses are sophisticated data-collection tools that work constantly to map our environment. We will dive into the biology of perception, isolating each sense to study its unique function. By investigating how information travels from our sensory organs to various parts of the brain, students will uncover the vital role these systems play in the human experience.

Uncover the mysteries of the molecular world! In this immersive lab experience, campers will dive into the fascinating chemistry of pH balances and the power of acids and bases. Through a series of thrilling experiments, young scientists will create reactions that pop, change colors, and transform into entirely new substances. Come see how exciting science can be!

Curiosity Club (grades TK-2) and Curiosity Creators (grades 3-5) are STEMful after school STEAM programs. Both programs engage student in science, technology, engineering, art and math concepts. We provide pick up at near by schools, light snack and homework support. If your child is from TECA, Dolores Huerta and Alvarado, Flynn Or MEC STEMful staff will do pick at the school. If your child does not attend one of these schools, then caregiver will need to drop-off.

Ever wonder what it takes to change the world? Join us to step into the shoes of history’s greatest innovators! Students will explore the wild stories and brilliant minds behind the world's biggest breakthroughs, uncovering how a little 'out-of-this-world' curiosity can spark a scientific revolution.

What does science have to do with food? How does gooey batter turn into a light fluffy cake? Why does cilantro taste great to some and terrible to others? Through kitchen experiments and other hands on activities, students will dig in to what is inside food, and discover the science behind what's on our plates.

Calling all Master Builders! 🧱 If you can dream it, you can build it in our STEAM LEGO® Lab. This week, we’re taking our favorite bricks to the next level with interactive builds that move, shake, and solve problems. From ancient inventions to modern-day marvels, students will explore how the objects we use every day have evolved through the power of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. Get ready to build, test, and innovate!

Discover a world of wonder and exploration with the California Academy of Sciences Ticket in San Francisco, an unforgettable experience for travelers of all ages. This all-in-one attraction brings together an aquarium, planetarium, natural history museum, and living rainforest under one innovative roof. Walk through a four-story tropical rainforest filled with butterflies and birds, come face to face with sharks and vibrant marine life, and enjoy fascinating planetarium shows that take you on a journey through space. Interactive exhibits make science fun and engaging, while the iconic living roof and location in Golden Gate Park add to the experience. Perfect for families, science lovers, and curious explorers, this ticket offers a full day of discovery, learning, and excitement. Book now and experience one of San Francisco’s most inspiring attractions.

This rental offers a unique experience in the heart of San Francisco’s iconic Golden Gate Park. You'll have the chance to ride through lush landscapes, picturesque gardens, and serene pathways with views of historic landmarks. The park is a peaceful, car-free zone, perfect for families and leisurely rides. With the included map, you can explore at your own pace and enjoy the beauty of the park's famous attractions, like the California Academy of Sciences and the Japanese Tea Garden. It's a relaxing way to take in the natural splendor of Golden Gate Park! Pick up anytime during operating hours, 9am-5pm.

Step into the Exploratorium, the award-winning museum of science, art, and human perception. With more than 650 hands-on exhibits across six indoor and outdoor galleries, this is a place built for touching, testing, and asking "wait, why does that happen?" Watch particle trails at the Cloud Chamber, freeze your silhouette in light at Shadow Box, or disappear into artist Fujiko Nakaya's living cloud on Fog Bridge #72494. At Gallery 2: Prototyping, peek into the machine shop where the museum's own engineers test fresh prototypes. Whether you're 6 or 60, there's something to get lost in. Journey through total darkness in the world-famous Tactile Dome. Refuel at the Tinkering Table Restaurant, with its stunning Bay view, or grab something quick at Catalyst Coffee Lab (hours vary daily), then browse the museum stores on your way out. Located at Pier 15 along San Francisco's Embarcadero, between Pier 39 and the Ferry Building, easy to reach by public transportation, with parking nearby.

Embark on a science adventure when you visit the world's only aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum - all under one living roof! And to make it as easy as possible, this ticket includes instant access, meaning you don't have to go to a separate kiosk to redeem your ticket — just present it at the California Academy of Science's entrance and be on your way.