San Francisco Museums After Dark

San Francisco boasts a world-class museum scene, but many visitors don’t realize that some of the city’s top museums come alive at night. At regular after-hours events, adult travelers can mingle over cocktails and get a new perspective on exhibits, all without the daytime crowds. Here’s what you need to know to attend.

California Academy of Sciences NightLife

Every Thursday night the Cal Academy hosts NightLife, a ticketed adults-only event featuring special exhibits, themed cocktails, guest DJs, and live performances. Explore topics ranging from health to the environment and wander the science museum’s aquarium, planetarium, 4-story rainforest, and natural history exhibits.

Exploratorium After Dark

The Exploratorium’s Thursday night event makes for an educational night out on the town. Art-making, science, and technology are the focus, with music and a cash bar adding to the fun. Check out the hands-on exhibits and museum theater at this ticketed event, then take in the Exploratorium’s waterfront views, set on the Embarcadero facing the bay.