Find Events & Events Calendar | California Academy of Sciences

55 Music Concourse Dr.
Golden Gate Park
San Francisco CA
94118
415.379.8000

Regular Hours:

Daily

9:30 am – 5:00 pm

Sunday

11:00 am – 5:00 pm

Members' Hours:

Tuesday

8:30 – 9:30 am

Sunday

10:00 – 11:00 am

Closures

Notices

The Academy will be closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

Please note: Rainforests of the World will be closed from May 7-9.

- Earthquake Exhibit
  
  Get ready for a kinetic journey into the world of seismic phenomena with Earthquake. The show explores life on our dynamic planet.
  
  Learn more
- Academy Sleepovers
  
  Why count sheep when you could count geckos, butterflies, sharks, and penguins? Camp out for a night at the Academy and see the museum in a whole new light.
  
  Learn more
- Animal Attraction
  
  Come explore this new aquarium gallery that highlights the diverse mating strategies in the animal kingdom.
  
  Learn more
- NightLife 2013
  
  Every Thursday night, the Academy opens its doors to adults 21 and over. Mingle, dance, drink, listen and explore the exhibits from 6 pm to 10 pm.
  
  Thursday Nights
- Human Odyssey
  
  Trace the milestones of our species’ fascinating history in a dramatic new addition to Tusher African Hall.
  
  Learn more
- Members-only Events
  
  Don’t miss our members-only events to experience our latest exhibit, Built for Speed. Bring your friends and family for a sneak-peek and explore the Academy at night.
  
  Learn more
- Evolving Traditions
  
  Explore this exhibit featuring Native American pottery and silver jewelry.
  
  Learn more

The calendar service is currently unavailable.

May 4, Saturday

Selected: All Daily

Notices

Calendar Events

9:30 AM
- Museum Opens
  Admission includes access to all museum and aquarium exhibits, including the rainforest, planetarium, and living roof. Admission to this popular Bay Area attraction includes a wide range of daily programs and activities, including dive shows, penguin feedings, swamp talks and more.
10:30 AM
- Planetarium Show - Earthquake: Evidence of a Restless Planet
  Planetarium
  View larger
  A sweeping geological journey, Earthquake explores the forces that transform the surface of our planet. After a stunning flight over the San Andreas Fault, audiences travel back in time to experience San Francisco's infamous 1906 earthquake. Data-driven visualizations illustrate Earth's story, revealing how subtle motions and sudden ruptures have shaped our planet over eons—and how geological activity influences the course of human history. Finally, see how scientists and engineers help society prepare for a safer future.
  
  Please note that this schedule is subject to change due to exhibit closures or special events.
  
  The Planetarium is very popular and tickets are handed out on a first come first serve basis due to limited seating. Visit the cart at the planetarium theater to pick up a show pass. In addition, please remember that shows may not be appropriate for kids 6 and under, and that children 3 and under are not permitted.
  
  School and youth groups are required to have an advance reservation in a school show in order to attend the Planetarium. Please check your reservation carefully for confirmation of any requested programs, we do not accept walkup requests on the day of your field trip.
- Penguin Feeding
  African Hall
  View larger
  Meet our African Penguin colony while an Academy biologist feeds them and answers your questions.
10:40 AM
- Curiosity on Mars
  Planetarium Entrance
  View larger
  What has the Curiosity rover been up to since its thrilling landing on the Red Planet? NASA’s latest explorer is searching for signs of past (or present) habitability in the martian soil. Discover why Mars captures our imaginations and learn about the latest discoveries from our robotic explorers in this live, 15-minute program hosted by our planetarium presenters in Hohfeld Hall.
11:00 AM
- Saturday Safari
  African Hall
  View larger
  Join us for an imaginary expedition around the corner or around the world! We will begin by using maps to chart our trip, and then be transported via stories, specimens, props, songs and dance. All ages are welcome!
  
  Free with general admission. Adult supervision required.
- Fossil Forensics
  Project Lab
  View larger
  Ever wondered how humans evolved? Scientists are still trying to find out, and a few exciting new scientific discoveries have recently changed our understanding of the story of human evolution. In this program, we will see how scientists search for things like fossils, ancient stone tools, and ancient DNA to explore the human past, and how they use modern technology to make sense of it all.
11:15 AM
- Planetarium Show - Fragile Planet
  Planetarium
  View larger
  Fragile Planet gives audiences an astronaut’s view of Earth, highlighting Earths unique regions. The journey then continues to the Moon, Mars, and beyond the Milky Way to search for habitats that might hostextraterrestrial life. The show’s theme — that Earth is the only known haven for life, and thus is important to protect — echoes the themes of biodiversity and sustainability. The visual foundation of the show lies in scientific visualization. From the high-resolution satellite imagery of Earth, the positions of galaxies more than 50 million light years distant, the three-dimensional terrain of Valles Marineris on Mars to the locations of extrasolar planetary systems in interstellar space, everything audiences will see in Fragile Planet has a basis in astronomers’ best understanding of the Universe.
  
  The Planetarium is very popular and tickets are handed out on a first come first serve basis due to limited seating. Visit the cart at the planetarium theater to pick up a show pass. In addition, please remember that shows may not be appropriate for kids 6 and under, and that children 3 and under are not permitted.
  
  School and youth groups are required to have an advance reservation in a school show in order to attend the Planetarium. Please check your reservation carefully for confirmation of any requested programs, we do not accept walkup requests on the day of your field trip.
11:25 AM
- Curiosity on Mars
  Planetarium Entrance
  View larger
  What has the Curiosity rover been up to since its thrilling landing on the Red Planet? NASA’s latest explorer is searching for signs of past (or present) habitability in the martian soil. Discover why Mars captures our imaginations and learn about the latest discoveries from our robotic explorers in this live, 15-minute program hosted by our planetarium presenters in Hohfeld Hall.
11:30 AM
- Coral Reef Dive
  Coral Reef Exhibit
  View larger
  Watch as a diver suits up in SCUBA gear and plunges into the world’s deepest living coral reef exhibit. Outfitted with an underwater microphone, the diver will answer all of your reef-related questions.
- Chat with an Academy Scientist
  Science in Action
  View larger
  Join us for "Chat with an Academy Scientist" to hear researchers, biologists, and Academy allies tell fascinating stories from behind the scenes and in the field.
  
  May 4th: Curator of Botany Peter Fritsch will discuss worm eating plants and other botanical wonders.
12:00 PM
- Planetarium Show - Earthquake: Evidence of a Restless Planet
  Planetarium
  View larger
  A sweeping geological journey, Earthquake explores the forces that transform the surface of our planet. After a stunning flight over the San Andreas Fault, audiences travel back in time to experience San Francisco's infamous 1906 earthquake. Data-driven visualizations illustrate Earth's story, revealing how subtle motions and sudden ruptures have shaped our planet over eons—and how geological activity influences the course of human history. Finally, see how scientists and engineers help society prepare for a safer future.
  
  Please note that this schedule is subject to change due to exhibit closures or special events.
  
  The Planetarium is very popular and tickets are handed out on a first come first serve basis due to limited seating. Visit the cart at the planetarium theater to pick up a show pass. In addition, please remember that shows may not be appropriate for kids 6 and under, and that children 3 and under are not permitted.
  
  School and youth groups are required to have an advance reservation in a school show in order to attend the Planetarium. Please check your reservation carefully for confirmation of any requested programs, we do not accept walkup requests on the day of your field trip.
- The Science of Exploration
  Project Lab
  View larger
  Academy scientists travel to remote corners of the Earth to explore some of the most extreme environments on this planet. Their mission is to shed light on the mysteries of life: how it got here and how we can help ensure it survives. In this interactive program, we take an in-depth look at a few of our intrepid explorers and see the wild adventures they’ve had while on their amazing race to discover and protect life on Earth.
12:10 PM
- Curiosity on Mars
  Planetarium Entrance
  View larger
  What has the Curiosity rover been up to since its thrilling landing on the Red Planet? NASA’s latest explorer is searching for signs of past (or present) habitability in the martian soil. Discover why Mars captures our imaginations and learn about the latest discoveries from our robotic explorers in this live, 15-minute program hosted by our planetarium presenters in Hohfeld Hall.
12:30 PM
- Discovery Nature Walk
  Swamp
  Join us for a 30-minute nature walk, exploring gardens and groves that surround the Academy. Learn about the importance of native plants and trees and how they support animals in Golden Gate Park, a unique and unusual ecosystem.
12:45 PM
- Planetarium Show - Fragile Planet
  Planetarium
  View larger
  Fragile Planet gives audiences an astronaut’s view of Earth, highlighting Earths unique regions. The journey then continues to the Moon, Mars, and beyond the Milky Way to search for habitats that might hostextraterrestrial life. The show’s theme — that Earth is the only known haven for life, and thus is important to protect — echoes the themes of biodiversity and sustainability. The visual foundation of the show lies in scientific visualization. From the high-resolution satellite imagery of Earth, the positions of galaxies more than 50 million light years distant, the three-dimensional terrain of Valles Marineris on Mars to the locations of extrasolar planetary systems in interstellar space, everything audiences will see in Fragile Planet has a basis in astronomers’ best understanding of the Universe.
  
  The Planetarium is very popular and tickets are handed out on a first come first serve basis due to limited seating. Visit the cart at the planetarium theater to pick up a show pass. In addition, please remember that shows may not be appropriate for kids 6 and under, and that children 3 and under are not permitted.
  
  School and youth groups are required to have an advance reservation in a school show in order to attend the Planetarium. Please check your reservation carefully for confirmation of any requested programs, we do not accept walkup requests on the day of your field trip.
12:55 PM
- Curiosity on Mars
  Planetarium Entrance
  View larger
  What has the Curiosity rover been up to since its thrilling landing on the Red Planet? NASA’s latest explorer is searching for signs of past (or present) habitability in the martian soil. Discover why Mars captures our imaginations and learn about the latest discoveries from our robotic explorers in this live, 15-minute program hosted by our planetarium presenters in Hohfeld Hall.
1:00 PM
- Live African Safari
  Science in Action
  View larger
  Adventure through Africa and explore the amazing biodiversity of its animals and habitats. How do pythons hunt so masterfully in the dark of night? How does a hissing cockroach attract a mate? And just how fast does a cheetah run? Discover the answers and learn how each animal plays an important role in its diverse ecosystem.
1:30 PM
- Sharks to Dinosaurs: A Walk through Time
  Islands of Evolution
  Come and uncover the Earth’s ancient history and learn about the sharks, tortoises, and dinosaurs that first appeared millions of years ago as you explore Academy exhibits. Step back in time and discover the unique adaptations these amazing species developed for evolving, thriving and surviving on a planet that was very different from our modern world.
- Planetarium Show - Earthquake: Evidence of a Restless Planet
  Planetarium
  View larger
  A sweeping geological journey, Earthquake explores the forces that transform the surface of our planet. After a stunning flight over the San Andreas Fault, audiences travel back in time to experience San Francisco's infamous 1906 earthquake. Data-driven visualizations illustrate Earth's story, revealing how subtle motions and sudden ruptures have shaped our planet over eons—and how geological activity influences the course of human history. Finally, see how scientists and engineers help society prepare for a safer future.
  
  Please note that this schedule is subject to change due to exhibit closures or special events.
  
  The Planetarium is very popular and tickets are handed out on a first come first serve basis due to limited seating. Visit the cart at the planetarium theater to pick up a show pass. In addition, please remember that shows may not be appropriate for kids 6 and under, and that children 3 and under are not permitted.
  
  School and youth groups are required to have an advance reservation in a school show in order to attend the Planetarium. Please check your reservation carefully for confirmation of any requested programs, we do not accept walkup requests on the day of your field trip.
1:40 PM
- Curiosity on Mars
  Planetarium Entrance
  View larger
  What has the Curiosity rover been up to since its thrilling landing on the Red Planet? NASA’s latest explorer is searching for signs of past (or present) habitability in the martian soil. Discover why Mars captures our imaginations and learn about the latest discoveries from our robotic explorers in this live, 15-minute program hosted by our planetarium presenters in Hohfeld Hall.
2:00 PM
- Out of the Lab
  Project Lab
  Curious to get a behind-the-scenes perspective on Academy research and the labs where the work gets done? Scientists will join visitors at the Project Lab to share stories about dissecting and documenting the many specimens collected on their global expeditions. Have a burning science question? Ask a real scientist!
2:15 PM
- Planetarium Show - Fragile Planet
  Planetarium
  View larger
  Fragile Planet gives audiences an astronaut’s view of Earth, highlighting Earths unique regions. The journey then continues to the Moon, Mars, and beyond the Milky Way to search for habitats that might hostextraterrestrial life. The show’s theme — that Earth is the only known haven for life, and thus is important to protect — echoes the themes of biodiversity and sustainability. The visual foundation of the show lies in scientific visualization. From the high-resolution satellite imagery of Earth, the positions of galaxies more than 50 million light years distant, the three-dimensional terrain of Valles Marineris on Mars to the locations of extrasolar planetary systems in interstellar space, everything audiences will see in Fragile Planet has a basis in astronomers’ best understanding of the Universe.
  
  The Planetarium is very popular and tickets are handed out on a first come first serve basis due to limited seating. Visit the cart at the planetarium theater to pick up a show pass. In addition, please remember that shows may not be appropriate for kids 6 and under, and that children 3 and under are not permitted.
  
  School and youth groups are required to have an advance reservation in a school show in order to attend the Planetarium. Please check your reservation carefully for confirmation of any requested programs, we do not accept walkup requests on the day of your field trip.
2:25 PM
- Curiosity on Mars
  Planetarium Entrance
  View larger
  What has the Curiosity rover been up to since its thrilling landing on the Red Planet? NASA’s latest explorer is searching for signs of past (or present) habitability in the martian soil. Discover why Mars captures our imaginations and learn about the latest discoveries from our robotic explorers in this live, 15-minute program hosted by our planetarium presenters in Hohfeld Hall.
2:30 PM
- Coral Reef Dive
  Coral Reef Exhibit
  View larger
  Watch as a diver suits up in SCUBA gear and plunges into the world’s deepest living coral reef exhibit. Outfitted with an underwater microphone, the diver will answer all of your reef-related questions.
3:00 PM
- Penguin Feeding
  African Hall
  View larger
  Meet our African Penguin colony while an Academy biologist feeds them and answers your questions.
- Planetarium Show - Earthquake: Evidence of a Restless Planet
  Planetarium
  View larger
  A sweeping geological journey, Earthquake explores the forces that transform the surface of our planet. After a stunning flight over the San Andreas Fault, audiences travel back in time to experience San Francisco's infamous 1906 earthquake. Data-driven visualizations illustrate Earth's story, revealing how subtle motions and sudden ruptures have shaped our planet over eons—and how geological activity influences the course of human history. Finally, see how scientists and engineers help society prepare for a safer future.
  
  Please note that this schedule is subject to change due to exhibit closures or special events.
  
  The Planetarium is very popular and tickets are handed out on a first come first serve basis due to limited seating. Visit the cart at the planetarium theater to pick up a show pass. In addition, please remember that shows may not be appropriate for kids 6 and under, and that children 3 and under are not permitted.
  
  School and youth groups are required to have an advance reservation in a school show in order to attend the Planetarium. Please check your reservation carefully for confirmation of any requested programs, we do not accept walkup requests on the day of your field trip.
3:10 PM
- Curiosity on Mars
  Planetarium Entrance
  View larger
  What has the Curiosity rover been up to since its thrilling landing on the Red Planet? NASA’s latest explorer is searching for signs of past (or present) habitability in the martian soil. Discover why Mars captures our imaginations and learn about the latest discoveries from our robotic explorers in this live, 15-minute program hosted by our planetarium presenters in Hohfeld Hall.
3:30 PM
- Swamp Discovery
  Swamp
  Learn more about these wetland ecosystems of the Southeast United States and their hidden value. Listen to sounds of swamp inhabitants as we follow the life of the American alligator from hatchling chirps to the booming bellows of mature adults, all beneath the moss-draped limbs of a bald cypress.
3:45 PM
- Planetarium Show - Fragile Planet
  Planetarium
  View larger
  Fragile Planet gives audiences an astronaut’s view of Earth, highlighting Earths unique regions. The journey then continues to the Moon, Mars, and beyond the Milky Way to search for habitats that might hostextraterrestrial life. The show’s theme — that Earth is the only known haven for life, and thus is important to protect — echoes the themes of biodiversity and sustainability. The visual foundation of the show lies in scientific visualization. From the high-resolution satellite imagery of Earth, the positions of galaxies more than 50 million light years distant, the three-dimensional terrain of Valles Marineris on Mars to the locations of extrasolar planetary systems in interstellar space, everything audiences will see in Fragile Planet has a basis in astronomers’ best understanding of the Universe.
  
  The Planetarium is very popular and tickets are handed out on a first come first serve basis due to limited seating. Visit the cart at the planetarium theater to pick up a show pass. In addition, please remember that shows may not be appropriate for kids 6 and under, and that children 3 and under are not permitted.
  
  School and youth groups are required to have an advance reservation in a school show in order to attend the Planetarium. Please check your reservation carefully for confirmation of any requested programs, we do not accept walkup requests on the day of your field trip.
3:55 PM
- Curiosity on Mars
  Planetarium Entrance
  View larger
  What has the Curiosity rover been up to since its thrilling landing on the Red Planet? NASA’s latest explorer is searching for signs of past (or present) habitability in the martian soil. Discover why Mars captures our imaginations and learn about the latest discoveries from our robotic explorers in this live, 15-minute program hosted by our planetarium presenters in Hohfeld Hall.
4:30 PM
- Planetarium Show - Earthquake: Evidence of a Restless Planet
  Planetarium
  View larger
  A sweeping geological journey, Earthquake explores the forces that transform the surface of our planet. After a stunning flight over the San Andreas Fault, audiences travel back in time to experience San Francisco's infamous 1906 earthquake. Data-driven visualizations illustrate Earth's story, revealing how subtle motions and sudden ruptures have shaped our planet over eons—and how geological activity influences the course of human history. Finally, see how scientists and engineers help society prepare for a safer future.
  
  Please note that this schedule is subject to change due to exhibit closures or special events.
  
  The Planetarium is very popular and tickets are handed out on a first come first serve basis due to limited seating. Visit the cart at the planetarium theater to pick up a show pass. In addition, please remember that shows may not be appropriate for kids 6 and under, and that children 3 and under are not permitted.
  
  School and youth groups are required to have an advance reservation in a school show in order to attend the Planetarium. Please check your reservation carefully for confirmation of any requested programs, we do not accept walkup requests on the day of your field trip.
4:40 PM
- Curiosity on Mars
  Planetarium Entrance
  View larger
  What has the Curiosity rover been up to since its thrilling landing on the Red Planet? NASA’s latest explorer is searching for signs of past (or present) habitability in the martian soil. Discover why Mars captures our imaginations and learn about the latest discoveries from our robotic explorers in this live, 15-minute program hosted by our planetarium presenters in Hohfeld Hall.
5:00 PM
- Museum Closes
  Tickets can be purchased up to an hour before closing.

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Before You Get Here

Get the most out of your visit to the new Academy.

About the Academy

This popular Bay Area attraction houses a natural history museum, planetarium, aquarium, and rainforest dome. It is also home to a world-class research institution with over 25 million specimens in its collections.

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