Glow at the Exploratorium 2026: A Dazzling Winter Light Experience in San Francisco
Get ready to glow! The Exploratorium's popular winter exhibition, Glow, returns to San Francisco this holiday season with dazzling light sculptures, colorful interactive displays, and fascinating experiences that combine art and science. Running November 19, 2026, through January 24, 2027, this family-friendly exhibition invites visitors of all ages to explore the magic of light, color, and shadow.
Located at Pier 15 along San Francisco's waterfront, Glow features illuminated artworks created by artists from around the world. From mesmerizing sculptures and optical illusions to hands-on activities, there's plenty to discover at this unique winter exhibition. It's a wonderful winter family activity in San Francisco!
What's New at Glow for 2026?
One of this year's highlights is Hidden Beacon, a new large-scale interactive sculpture created by Canadian artists Caitlind r.c. Brown and Wayne Garrett. Made from thousands of recycled eyeglass lenses, this fascinating installation reveals unexpected colors and patterns when viewed through special polarized glasses.
Other highlights include:
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The Gateway: Explore a spectacular display of 91 moving infinity mirrors illuminated by thousands of colorful LED lights.
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Good Vibrations: Watch spinning sculptures create mesmerizing three-dimensional waves of light and color.
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Line Wobbler: Play an interactive LED game where you battle enemies, lava, and obstacles.
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Inner Horizons: Step inside an immersive, bubble-like sculpture filled with light and movement.
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Glow Cinema: Enjoy short films exploring light, color, and visual storytelling.
Hands-On Fun for Kids
Families can also explore special activities from the Exploratorium's Tinkering Studio, including Light Painting and Shadow Creatures. These interactive experiences encourage kids to experiment with light, create colorful patterns, and discover how shadows work.
Of course, visitors can also enjoy the Exploratorium's many other hands-on science exhibits during their visit, making Glow a fun winter outing for the whole family.
If You Go
Dates: November 19, 2026–January 24, 2027
Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 10 am–5 pm; Sunday, noon–5 pm; closed Mondays. Special Thursday evening hours, 6–10 pm, are for ages 18 and older. Holiday hours may vary.
Admission: Included with regular Exploratorium museum admission. Free for eligible members.
Location: Exploratorium, Pier 15, The Embarcadero at Green Street, San Francisco, CA 94111
Phone: (415) 528-4444
More information and tickets: exploratorium.edu/visit/calendar/glow
