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San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

I suggest downloading the SFMOMA app before you go. It gives you good info about the pieces and helps you find your way around. Plus, it works offline!

Definitely check out the free first Tuesdays of the month! I had a great time exploring more without breaking the bank. Just be ready for a bigger crowd, though!

If you want to avoid long lines, try to visit after 3 PM on weekdays. I went around that time and it was much less hectic, giving me more time to enjoy each piece!
Exploratorium

my advice is to buy your tickets online before you go. you can save a few bucks and skip the ticket line altogether, which leaves you more time to play!

I recommend getting there right when it opens at 10 AM. The place gets busy fast, and you’ll have way more space to explore without the crowds during those first couple of hours.

One thing I wish I’d known was to plan your exhibits ahead of time. Some stuff was closed during my visit, so check their website the day before to make sure you see what you want!

If you're visiting with kids, here's a tip: there are family packs available at a discount that can save you some cash. We got one and it made a big difference!
De Young Museum

My advice is to check out the free museum days if you can! I ended up going on one and saved some cash while getting the full experience without missing anything.

I suggest getting there right when it opens at 9:30 am to dodge the crowds and really enjoy the exhibits. Trust me, it makes a big difference.

I think you should definitely spend some time on the roof terrace. The city views are just stunning, and it’s a lovely spot to take a break and snap some pics!
Musée Mécanique

Don't forget to bring some change! A lot of the games and attractions require quarters, and trust me, you'll want to play as many as you can. I missed out on a few because I didn't have enough!

My advice is to take your time and really immerse yourself in the history of the automata. Some pieces have great stories behind them, and reading about them enhanced my experience a lot

I suggest starting your visit right when it opens at 10 AM on weekdays. It gets quite busy later, and you'll have more time to explore the cool machines without the crowds.

I recommend visiting during the week instead of weekends if you can. The lines were way shorter, and I had more time to enjoy the nostalgic vibe without feeling rushed.
Cable Car Museum

If you're planning to ride a cable car after your visit, grab a day pass instead of single rides. You can hop on and off all day, and it's a great way to explore more of the city without breaking the bank.
I suggest checking out the gift shop for some unique souvenirs, but avoid the mugs – I got one, and it wasn’t very durable. Better to stick with postcards or local art pieces.

My advice is to allocate at least an hour for your visit. It's a small museum, but there's a lot of interesting history and cool displays. You'll want to take your time looking around.
California Academy of Sciences

I think you should bring your own snacks if you're visiting with kids. Food can be pricey inside, and we spent way more than we expected on a quick lunch!

Try to catch the 11 AM penguin feeding; it's a highlight. I almost missed it, and it was such a fun experience to watch their antics.

I recommend buying your tickets online to save time standing in line. I did this and breezed right through. It's such a relief not to waste time waiting!
Legion of Honor Museum

I recommend getting there right when it opens at 9:30 AM to avoid the crowds. The morning light is also great for photos outside the museum.

Check for free admission days or discounts online before you go. I saved a few bucks by planning my visit for a Sunday!
Asian Art Museum

My advice is to take your time in the Japanese tea garden section. I rushed through it and missed some stunning details—but next time, I plan to pull out my phone and snap some pics!

Try visiting on a Thursday; it's free admission from 5pm to 9pm. I saved some cash and still got to enjoy the beautiful exhibits without the crowds!
Submarine Pampanito

I suggest getting there right when it opens at 9 AM. You'll beat the crowds and have more time to explore the submarine without feeling rushed

I recommend checking out the nearby Fisherman's Wharf after your visit; it’s a great way to continue the day! Just grab some clam chowder; it's delish!