Exploratorium

Raw space venue

The venue will provide just the space. You’ll bring in your own caterer and vendors.

Full wedding (ceremony and reception) pricing

Starting at $11,900

Guest capacity

Up to 500 seated guests

About this venue

Our LEED platinum sustainably designed facility—located in the vibrant heart of the historic Embarcadero at Pier 15—is an unforgettable venue for everything from intimate gatherings to large events. With spectacular views of both city and Bay—plus access to our lively landscape of hundreds of exhibits—the Exploratorium’s waterfront home offers an exciting, imaginative setting for just about anything you can dream up.

Seated guest capacity

  • 50-500

Venue type

  • Aquariums, Zoos
  • Museums, Galleries

Venue setting

  • Indoor
  • Outdoor
Pier 15 Embarcadero at Green St, San Francisco, CA 94111

Our event spaces

Fisher Bay Observatory & Terrace

This waterfront gallery with an adjoining terrace is an ideal venue for elegant seated dinners, cocktail receptions, and weddings.

A marvel of glass, steel, and cutting-edge technology, the Observatory features breathtaking views of the city and Bay.

Guest capacity

Up to 150 Seated

Up to 200 Standing

Square footage

6,000

Guests often feel this space is

“Luxurious and chic”

Room cost

$11,900

Moore East Gallery

East Gallery brings the outside world in, offering experiences and exhibits that let guests explore life at different scales.

The East Gallery shows off views of the SF Bay and Bay Bridge, it's connected to the Biology Lab, and showcases life science exhibits.

Guest capacity

Up to 150 Seated

Up to 450 Standing

Square footage

7,000

Guests often feel this space is

“Luxurious and chic”

Room cost

$15,300

Bechtel Central & Outdoor Gallery

Designed for exploring sights, sounds, and perception itself, the Central Gallery is the setting for our physics and perception installations.

The expansive and flexible gallery is our largest single space and is well suited to strolling receptions or dining and dancing among interactive exhibits. The Outdoor Gallery is an open-air space with wonderful views of the San Francisco city skyline, including Coit Tower and the Bank of America Building. Watch shifting winds and tides, explore the Fog Bridge, reveal hidden life, observe human behavior, and find new ways to notice the places we inhabit.

Guest capacity

Up to 500 Seated

Up to 1200 Standing

Square footage

20,000

Guests often feel this space is

“Surprised and delighted”

Room cost

$20,400

Osher West Gallery

The West Gallery, which integrates exhibits on psychology and art, houses the museum’s iconic Tactile Dome —a space for immersive installations.

Closest to the Embarcadero and adjacent to the Forum, the West Gallery is great for seated dinners and evening receptions, including product launches, alumni gatherings, and more.

Guest capacity

Up to 125 Seated

Up to 600 Standing

Square footage

16,000

Guests often feel this space is

“Surprised and delighted”

Room cost

$11,900

Fisher Bay Observatory & Terrace

This waterfront gallery with an adjoining terrace is an ideal venue for elegant seated dinners, cocktail receptions, and weddings.

A marvel of glass, steel, and cutting-edge technology, the Observatory features breathtaking views of the city and Bay.

Guest capacity

Up to 150 Seated

Up to 200 Standing

Square footage

6,000

Guests often feel this space is

“Luxurious and chic”

Room cost

$11,900

Available services that can be provided by Exploratorium

Services & amenities

  • Dressing room / Bridal Suite
  • Lighting/Sound
  • Pet friendly

Transportation & access

  • Self parking - paid
  • Wheelchair accessible

Rentals

  • Lighting

Reviews

Write a review

5.0 out of 5

3 reviews

Write a review

  • A memorable event!

    •Verified review
    •Michelle•Jan 6

    Having produced several events at the Exploratorium over the past year for both social and non-profit, I can confidently say their event staff is unparalleled to most and their event spaces are truly one of a kind. They run a tight ship, are courteous, and experienced. They provide each client with a personalized experience, detailed communication and go above and beyond to meet your individual needs. I would highly recommend this space for it's unique event spaces, ideal location within the city and excellent customer service.

  • Unforgettable

    •Verified review
    •P C.•Dec 18, 2024

    The staff and venue exceeded expectations. They provided great suggestions and stayed in contact to answer any questions and concerns. The venue was beautiful and provided ample space for all vendors and guests. We would definitely return for other celebrations.

  • Amazing Exploratorium

    •Verified review
    •Taste Catering•Oct 27, 2023

    We love working there with the friendly, professional, and talented team. From Sales to Production, clients are cared for and caterers/vendors are instructed. The views are amazing event backdrops (city and bay), and the exhibits keep the guests entertained and challenged. It's a perfect party location for any group occasion and any size!

Real couples who got married at Exploratorium

Show all photos

Explore other vendors serving San Francisco, CA

Complete your dream team

Other venues in San Francisco

Other wedding services nearby