No two visits to the Academy are the same. Check this page regularly for announcements of new exhibits, attractions, special events, and other updates.
Pyjama sharks join penguin exhibit
August 7, 2012
Six beautifully striped pyjama sharks joined the Academy’s popular African Penguin exhibit this week. These seemingly unlikely “roommates” both live along the South African coast in the wild, in habitats that are increasingly impacted by human activities and climate change.
Born at an aquarium in Lisbon, Portugal, the sharks were acquired by Steinhart Aquarium several months ago in an effort to enhance the exhibit at the end of African Hall, showcasing these natural neighbors together as few aquariums have done before. Since their arrival, Academy biologists have implemented a formal training plan to regulate their feeding habits. The goal of this plan is to attract the sharks, typically nocturnal bottom feeders, closer to the surface for feeding and monitoring, allowing biologists to keep a watchful eye on their progress.
Pyjama sharks are shy by nature, so they are expected to spend a lot of time in the exhibit’s crevices and caves built especially for them by Academy staff. But visitors who happen to catch a feeding will be in for a treat. Biologists plan to establish that schedule in the weeks to come, as the sharks settle into their new home and the penguins become accustomed to their new roommates.
Named for its appearance, the pyjama shark is typically identified by its body pattern of long, dark stripes, and prominent but short nasal barbells. Upon hatching, pyjama sharks generally measure between 14-15 centimeters and can grow up to 100 centimeters as adults. The Academy’s pyjama sharks, four female and two male, arrived at a length of 40 centimeters and continue to grow.
On September 21, guests at the second annual Penguins + Pajamas Sleepover for Grownups can pay a housewarming visit to the animals in their own pajamas. Additional Penguins + Pajamas sleepover dates open to kids ages 5+ and their chaperones include October 12, November 10, and December 30, 2012. Tickets>>
New Academy Tours
July 2, 2012
Get up-close and personal with the Academy on one of four brand new tours launching today. Learn something new about life on Earth, life at the Academy, or both, on the guided tour that best matches your interests.
Behind-the-Scenes Academy Tour – 11:00 am and 2:00 pm daily
Explore the Academy from an insider’s perspective and spend an hour behind the scenes learning more about the institution’s 159-year history and how its scientists are tackling critical questions about life on Earth. Visit the research collections and a working laboratory, get closer to the living roof, and see breathtaking geology specimens in the vault.
1-hour guided tour
Guests ages 8+ only
Includes General Admission
Includes express entry into the rainforest exhibit, and reserved planetarium seats
10% discount in The Moss Room restaurant and Academy gift shops
$54.95 per adult or child; $19.95 for members Buy tickets »
Behind-the-Scenes Aquarium Tour – 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm daily
Go behind the scenes to learn about the history of Steinhart Aquarium and how biologists care for the 38,000 animals—butterflies, fish, penguins, even an albino alligator—that live in the building. Visit the food prep kitchen, see the complex water filtration system, and much more on an hour-long exclusive aquarium tour.
1-hour guided tour
Guests ages 8+ only
Includes General Admission
Includes express entry into the rainforest exhibit, and reserved planetarium seats
10% discount in The Moss Room restaurant and Academy gift shops
$54.95 per adult or child; $19.95 for members Buy tickets »
Aquarium Adventure Tour – 10:00 am daily
This tour explores amazing species from all over the world that make their homes in everything from cold saltwater to warm freshwater. You will learn about the aquarium’s history, some of the amazing adaptations animals use to survive in the water, and what the Academy is doing to learn more about them, both here and in the field.
1-hour guided tour
Guests ages 5+ only
Includes General Admission
Includes express entry into the rainforest exhibit, and reserved planetarium seats
10% discount in The Moss Room restaurant and Academy gift shops
$54.95 per adult or child; $19.95 for members Buy tickets »
Reefs to Rainforests Adventure Tour – 3:30 pm daily
What do coral reefs and rainforests have in common? Find out as you explore two of the Academy’s most popular live animal exhibits on an hour-long guided tour. Learn about the rare and unique species that live in these ecosystems, and the Academy’s expeditions to these dynamic environments.
1-hour guided tour
Guests ages 5+ only
Includes General Admission
Includes express entry into the rainforest exhibit, and reserved planetarium seats
10% discount in The Moss Room restaurant and Academy gift shops
$54.95 per adult or child; $19.95 for members Buy tickets »
Earthquake is now open!
May 25, 2012
In the Academy’s brand new Earthquake exhibit, delve into the science behind our dynamic planet with:
a walk-in “shake house” that simulates the 1906 and 1989 San Francisco earthquakes
live baby ostriches (yes, there’s a surprising connection between earthquakes and ostriches!)
a 25-foot-diameter model of Earth featuring rock and mineral specimens
an interactive preparedness area…and much more.
Concurrently, a new Earthquake planetarium show, narrated by Benjamin Bratt, will launch you on a breathtaking tour over and into our restless planet. Watch the trailer:
From now until May 22, 2012, get a taste of the real-life adventures Academy scientists embark upon around the world in their quest to discover and document life on Earth. Daily and weekly programs will explore the “Science of Adventure,” giving museum visitors a chance to meet real scientists, hear tales from the field, and discover why this important research is literally a race against time.
Highlights include:
Discovery Nature Walk
Daily at 12:30 pm
Meet Our Indiana Joneses
Fridays at 12:30 pm
Tales from Our Amazing Race
Saturdays and Sundays at 2:00 pm (starting April 7)
Pollinator Power
Friday – Monday and Wednesdays at 1:30 pm
Retrofit your imagination on a seismic journey into the dynamic forces that change our world, shape our planet, and change our culture. Don’t miss this all-new floor exhibit and planetarium show.
Memberships
Join Today! Academy members enjoy a full year of unlimited admission, reserved Planetarium passes, access to special events, Academy discounts, and more!
