by CD Gozzi

Created on: October 24, 2008   Last Updated: November 25, 2008

The Exploratorium, housed in the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco, California is a place where discovery and learning is a celebration of the senses. Founded by educator and Physicist Frank Oppenheimer, this museum opens the door to art, science, nature and new technologies.

Oppenheimer was ahead of his time at the way he looked at things; always finding a different perspective, and involving invention and playfulness. It was during his fellowship studying European museums that Oppenheimer became motivated to create a science museum in the United States; one that expanded upon the science curriculum taught by school teachers and educators.

The museum houses 700 different exhibits with 400 on display. Many of the exhibits travel and can be experienced around the world. Exhibits center on human perception how we interpret our world through our senses of touch, sight and smell. The Exploratorium is not just for children but for the adults that have a "sense" of adventure. You can explore the different exhibits of, Seeing, Traits of Life, Matter/World, Listen, Mind, Tactile Dome and Wave Organ.

When you plan to go, make a day of it. There are so many exhibits to experience, that you will want to maximize your time.

One of the newest exhibits is in the Mind collection. Here participants will "think and cognitively feel" in this exhibit that highlights the working of the mind. Some of the experiences include the apprehension of deciding between reason and emotion should you drink from a water fountain that is a toilet? Poker Face challenges one to catch someone in a lie or try to get away with one. Here facial cues are manipulated to try to hide the true nature of what is being said. True Mirrors are both regular and reversed mirrors that allow you to see yourself from your own perception and then from the way others see you. This pushes the emotional reaction button as the thoughts of the others will subtly violate what your perceptions are.

The Tactile Dome plunges the curious into total darkness where they must navigate through the thirteen chambers with only their sense of touch. Be prepared to take of your shoes and to walk and crawl through this exhibit. There is an additional fee to access the Dome and reservations are recommended. This is not recommended for anyone who is claustrophobic.

Wave Organ is the only exhibit outside the Exploratorium. Stonemason Richard Gonzales has created a sculpture that uses the sound from the wave action of the San Francisco Bay. Sound pipes reach down to the water and carry the concerto up to the audience above. This is a wonderfully peaceful and beautiful experience heightened by the dramatic view of San Francisco.

The Exploratorium is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission for adults is $14; seniors (65+), students/teens (13+) and disabled persons admission is $11. Children 4-12 pay $9 and 3 and under are free. The Tactile Dome is an additional $3. For those who can plan ahead, admission is free the first Wednesday of every month. If you have a group of ten or more, reservations are needed.

The Exploratorium is a worthwhile experience for anyone with a curious mind!

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