Lawrence Hall of Science
A vibrant science center on a Berkeley hilltop, offering hands-on exhibits, stunning Bay views, and inspiring discoveries for all ages.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Lawrence Hall of Science
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant science center on a Berkeley hilltop, offering hands-on exhibits, stunning Bay views, and inspiring discoveries for all ages.
"My kids ages 3 and 5 loved this place. We stayed for 5 hours and I had to drag them out because they wanted to stay."
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Parking is available but costs $1.50 per hour. Consider carpooling or public transport if possible. :car:
🧺 Pack a Picnic Lunch
The cafe is closed, but there's a cafeteria downstairs. Enjoy the views while you eat! :sandwich:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dinosaur Outlook
Outdoor area
Life-sized dinosaurs and stunning Bay views create an unforgettable photo opportunity.
Future of Food Exhibit
Indoor exhibit
Explore the future of food with interactive experiences, from feeding a cow to understanding AI in farming.
Pheena the Fin Whale
Indoor exhibit
An impressive fin whale model that captivates both kids and adults with its scale.
Sunset Views
Hilltop location
Enjoy unparalleled panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, especially breathtaking at sunset.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Save
Plan for Parking & Picnics
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Parking is available but costs $1.50 per hour.
🧺 Pack a Picnic Lunch
The cafe is closed, but there's a cafeteria downstairs. Enjoy the views while you eat! :sandwich:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of exploring! Wear comfy shoes for walking around the exhibits and grounds. :athletic_shoe:
📅 Check Exhibit Schedules
Some exhibits, like the marble drop, have end dates. Check the website for current and upcoming attractions. :calendar:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Fees Apply
Parking is available but costs $1.50 per hour.
🧺 Pack a Picnic Lunch
The cafe is closed, but there's a cafeteria downstairs. Enjoy the views while you eat! :sandwich:
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of exploring! Wear comfy shoes for walking around the exhibits and grounds. :athletic_shoe:
📅 Check Exhibit Schedules
Some exhibits, like the marble drop, have end dates. Check the website for current and upcoming attractions. :calendar:
👶 Stroller Friendly
Bring a stroller for little ones, as there's a bit of a walk from parking to the entrance. :baby_bottle:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Lawrence Hall of Science for its engaging, hands-on exhibits that delight both children and adults. The stunning Bay views and unique attractions like the dinosaurs and fin whale are major highlights. While parking fees and the lack of an on-site cafe are minor drawbacks, the overall experience is highly recommended for families and science enthusiasts alike.
"A fascinating place for science lovers of all ages! I visited on a weekday — there was no wait at all, which made the experience even better. The museum offers hands-on exhibits that are both fun and educational, especially great for kids. Although it was foggy when I visited, the view from the hilltop location is usually stunning and overlooks the Bay.
Parking was easy, and staff were friendly and helpful. I’d recommend making a reservation in advance, especially during holidays or weekends. Great stop for families or anyone curious about science and discovery!"
Lily LI
"Hidden gem in bay area, that should have been more popular. The exhibits and experiments are engrossing for adults and kids. Specially liked the revelations in the future of food section. Could see many of the stuffs that had read in textbooks, such as air/liquid flow when disturbances are present, visualising sound, bio tech related stuffs and many more."
Sharad Bagri
"My kids ages 3 and 5 loved this place. We stayed for 5 hours and I had to drag them out because they wanted to stay. Lots of hands on science and building activities for kids to explore plus an outdoor play/picnic area, robotic dinosaurs, climbing structure, puppet theater, music area, and more. Go on a sunny day with a picnic lunch so you can sit outside and enjoy the view."
Mandy King
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lawrence Hall of Science is located at 1 Centennial Drive, Berkeley, CA 94720. It's accessible by car, with parking available for a fee. Public transportation options include AC Transit buses.
Yes, there is ample parking available on-site, but it is a paid parking lot with hourly rates.
Yes, it is stroller friendly. Many visitors recommend bringing a stroller for younger children due to the walk from the parking lot to the entrance.
Yes, you can bring your own food. There is a cafeteria downstairs for eating your packed lunch, and many visitors recommend picnicking to enjoy the views.
AC Transit buses serve the area. Check the AC Transit website for specific routes and schedules that go near the Lawrence Hall of Science.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission is typically around $20 for ages 3 and up, with free admission for children under 2.
It's recommended to make a reservation in advance, especially for weekends and holidays, to ensure entry.
Yes, the museum hosts 'Five Dollar Days' with heavily discounted admission.
Hours can vary, and exhibits may be closed on weekdays. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date operating hours and exhibit availability.
Yes, the Lawrence Hall of Science features a planetarium, though shows may require an additional fee.
🎫 🔬 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the life-sized dinosaurs in Dinosaur Outlook, the interactive Future of Food exhibit, and Pheena the Fin Whale. The sunset views are also a major highlight. +1
Absolutely! Toddlers love the hands-on activities, outdoor play areas, and the dinosaur exhibits.
There are numerous hands-on exhibits, including building stations like marble drops, animation stations, and interactive displays about science, art, and music.
Yes, there are outdoor play and picnic areas, offering great views of the Bay.
Definitely! Many adults find the exhibits engaging and fun, with some even admitting they enjoyed it as much as the kids.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The on-site cafe is permanently closed. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and utilize the cafeteria area for dining.
While the museum doesn't have an open cafe, there are dining options in the nearby Berkeley area. However, packing a picnic is a popular and convenient choice.
Yes, there are designated areas for picnics, and it's a great way to enjoy the beautiful views while dining.
📸 📸 Photography
The Dinosaur Outlook offers a dramatic backdrop with life-sized dinos and Bay views. The panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay are also unparalleled.
Generally, photography is allowed inside the exhibits for personal use. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or restrictions within certain areas.
With its unique exhibits, dinosaur models, and stunning Bay views, the Lawrence Hall of Science offers plenty of visually appealing spots for Instagram.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
Look out for 'Five Dollar Days' for an incredibly affordable family outing.
Many parents report their children having an absolute blast and wanting to stay all day, making it a highly recommended spot for Bay Area families. 💰 Budget Travelers
Bringing your own picnic lunch is also a great way to save money, as the on-site cafe is closed. 🔭 Science Enthusiasts
to marveling at Pheena the Fin Whale and understanding complex biological systems, there's plenty to captivate any science lover. The sunset views also provide a unique, inspiring atmosphere for contemplation. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Exhibits
to the forward-thinking Future of Food exhibit that explores sustainable agriculture and culinary innovation, there's a diverse range of scientific concepts to discover. Visitors often rave about the interactive nature of the displays, allowing for active learning and experimentation. Beyond the permanent attractions, the museum frequently hosts temporary exhibits, ensuring there's always something new to explore. Past highlights have included interactive music exhibits
and engaging displays on topics like aerodynamics with paper planes. The presence of unique creatures like Axolotls also adds an exciting element for animal lovers. Many visitors find that a single visit isn't enough to fully experience all that the Lawrence Hall of Science has to offer. The sheer variety and depth of the exhibits encourage repeat visits, making a membership a worthwhile investment for local families.
The Unique Berkeley Experience
This institution is also a testament to the innovative spirit often associated with the Bay Area. It's a place where scientific discovery is made accessible and exciting, from understanding complex biological systems to exploring the history of computing, as highlighted by a TikTok about Clifford Stoll's work at the nearby lab.
Combined with its proximity to the University of California, Berkeley, the Lawrence Hall of Science embodies a culture of learning and curiosity. It's a place that inspires future scientists and thinkers, offering a glimpse into both the wonders of the natural world and the cutting edge of human innovation.
Family Fun and Accessibility
Accessibility is a key consideration, with many visitors noting the stroller-friendly environment and the availability of restrooms and a lunch area.
The museum's commitment to access is further demonstrated through initiatives like 'Five Dollar Days,' which significantly reduce the cost of admission, making it more affordable for families. Parents often share that their children have a blast, with some declaring it their favorite museum.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit