Don’t miss the goings-on in this living, breathing natural history and science museum. It's your chance to get closer to the science and drama of daily life at the Academy.
Planetarium Shows
| | ![]() | This show is appropriate for ages 7 and up. Lift off from planet Earth and take a jaw-dropping ride to the far reaches of the Universe. The Academy's initial program, Fragile Planet, is projected onto a 75-foot diameter screen. Show times: Every day, every hour on the half-hour, 11:30 am - 4:30 pm. On Sundays, there is an additional 10:30 am show exclusively for members. Please note: The Planetarium is very popular and tickets are handed out on a first come first serve basis. Visit the kiosk at the planetarium entrance to select your show time. In addition, please remember that the show is not appropriate for kids 6 and under. |
Coral Reef Dives
| | ![]() | Meet a coral reef diver who descends into the exhibit to introduce you to the world’s deepest living coral reef exhibit. Dive times: Everyday at 11 am and 2 pm. |
Penguin Feedings
![]() | Meet Pierre, Howard, Ocio and the rest of the African Penguin colony. Academy marine biologists will field visitor questions while feeding and caring for them. Feeding times: Everyday at 10:30 am and 3:30 pm. |
Bugs!
| | ![]() | Slip on a pair of 3D glasses and check out Bugs! Shot on location in the tropical forests of Borneo, this 25-minute film is premiering in the new Hearst 3D theater. Show times: Mondays - Saturdays, at the top of every hour, 10 am - 4 pm. On Sundays, at the top of every hour, 11 am - 4 pm, with the 11 am show exclusively for members. |
Please note: Specialty Tours begin in January, 2009.
Deep Dive Tour
![]() | The Deep Dive Tour is an hour-long, privately guided tour that provides an in-depth look at your choice of the behind-the-scenes workings of the aquarium or the Academy's world renowned research collections. | |
Platinum Tour
![]() | The definitive way to explore the Academy, the two-and-a-half-hour Platinum Tour includes:
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Advance reservations with pre-payment are required for both the Deep Dive and Platinum Tours. Academy Members receive a 10% discount.

The Naturalist Center provides a welcoming environment for individualized, in-depth inquiry about the natural world and sustainability.
Students, teachers and families can walk in during Academy hours and gain access to research material, multimedia resources, and personal one-on-one attention from Academy staff.
- Ask questions about the natural world
- Access books, DVDs and online resources
- Find out more about Academy scientists and their work
- Identify and research specimens
- Learn about the the building and its LEED certification.
- Find out more about Sustainability and how you can make a difference.
Hours: Monday – Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., and Sunday 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Before You Get HereGet the most out of your visit to the new Academy. |
Self-guided Tours |
Explore at your own pace.
- Audio tours are available in French, German, Italian, English, Spanish, Japanese, Korean and Chinese.
- You can also access details about exhibits via your cell phone!
Refill Your Tank |
Enjoy a snack and then some! Two outstanding dining options:
Cafe
The Academy Cafe offers a multicultural menu for all appetites and ages. Open during standard museum hours.
Restaurant
The Moss Room is a full service restaurant featuring local, organic ingredients.
Serving lunch (11:30 am - 2:30 pm) and dinner (5:30 pm - 10 pm).
- Moss Room Fact Sheet
[40KB PDF] - Lunch Menu [40KB PDF]
- Dinner Menu [40KB PDF ]
Reservations for lunch and dinner are recommended and can be made via www.opentable.com or by calling (415) 876-6121.















