Bay Area Discovery Museum
Photo: unknown, via Wikimedia Commons
Located at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge, the Bay Area Discovery Museum provides hands-on, STEM-focused exhibits and outdoor play areas for children aged 0-8.
Planning your visit
The Bay Area Discovery Museum has arguably the best location of any children's museum anywhere: Fort Baker, a former army post on the Sausalito side of the Golden Gate, directly beneath the north tower of the bridge, with the span overhead and San Francisco across the water.
It is designed specifically for children from birth to eight, which is unusual — most science museums aim older and lose the youngest visitors. Exhibits are STEM-focused but built around open-ended play: a shipwreck to climb in the lagoon, a Lookout Cove outdoor area with a bridge-building zone, an art studio, a tot spot for infants and toddlers, and a wave workshop.
The outdoor component is substantial and takes advantage of the setting, though Marin fog and wind are real considerations.
The historic army buildings the museum occupies add character.
Bookable options are entry tickets. Weekday mornings during term time are considerably calmer. Current availability is listed below.
Before you book
Where is Bay Area Discovery Museum?
Bay Area Discovery Museum is in Sausalito, United States. The map on this page marks its exact location.
Do I need to book Bay Area Discovery Museum in advance?
Tickets can be bought on the door at quiet times, but booking ahead fixes the date and avoids the queue at busy ones. Live availability is shown on this page.