New: Virtual tour now available.

Due to COVID-19, SLAC has cancelled all public tours until further notice out of concern for the health, safety and well-being of our community and staff.

Please check this website for the latest updates on the tour program.

SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory offers free public tours. Tours last approximately 90 minutes and usually include a visit to the lab’s 2-mile-long linear accelerator, now driving the world’s brightest X-ray source.

Tours are offered twice a month, by registration only.

All public tours meet in the SLAC Orientation Theater (Room 1010), Building 53, 15 minutes prior to tour time. Closed-toed shoes are required.

Tours are open to all visitors 12 years of age and above. Children 12-17 years of age must be accompanied by an adult; tickets are required for both the minor and the escorting adult.

Tour Guidelines

Before you sign up for the tour, please read the general guidelines, safety-related information and directions for SLAC visitors. 

View Tour Guidelines »

Registration

Registration opens on the last Friday of every month at 9 a.m. Tours are popular and spaces fill up quickly; we recommend registering as early as possible.

Register for a Public Tour of SLAC »

Tour FAQs

What will I see on the tour? Who are the guides? What should I bring with me?

View Tour FAQs »

Educational Tours

SLAC offers free educational tours (transportation not included) to groups of 10-25 visitors affiliated with schools or other educational institutes. Tours last approximately 90 minutes, and tour locations may vary according to site availability and group interests.

Request an Educational Tour »