Birthday Parties

Celebrate in our iconic spaces...
Take a scavenger hunt through Steinhart Aquarium...
Enjoy specially-themed crafts...
...Gaze into the wonders of our rainforest and more!

Inspire your pint-sized scientist with an unforgettable birthday bash at the Academy!

Designed for children ages 4-12, your party will feature an action-packed array of events and activities at one of the most enchanting — and educational — settings in the Bay Area.

Each party package includes:

2-hour party room rental, including setup and cleanup
Express entry into the earthquake simulator and Osher Rainforest exhibit
Reserved seating in the Planetarium (minimum age of 4)
A special gift for the birthday child and party favors for all kids
And more!

Please note: Birthday parties are only offered on Saturdays and Sundays at 10 am and 2 pm. Available dates fill up fast—please make your party request as far in advance as possible!

Select from one of four wildly fun party packages below:

Aquarium Odyssey

Become a marine biologist for the day and explore the depths of our aquarium to find and identify a variety of marine species. This package includes:

Self-guided scavenger hunt
Private 2-hour decorated party space
Party coordinator
Gift for birthday child
Party favors
All-day admission to the Academy

Recommended for ages 4 and up. $629 members, $699 public. Admission for up to 16 people (including birthday child and family); additional people welcome for $40/person. Maximum party size is 40 people total.

Request This Package

Canopy Quest

Please note: Osher Rainforest is closed through November 17 for maintenance. Canopy Quest birthday parties will not be offered until this time. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Embark on an exciting safari adventure inside our rainforest to find and identify a variety of animal species. This package includes:

Self-guided scavenger hunt
Private 2-hour decorated party space
Party coordinator
Gift for birthday child
Party favors
All-day admission to the Academy

Request This Package

Cosmic Crafts

Take a giant leap and learn all about the wonders of space and stars. Plus, make your very own tiny planetarium. This package includes:

Guided 30-minute space-themed craft
Brief talk on space and constellations
Private 2-hour decorated party space
Party coordinator
Gift for birthday child
Party favors
All-day admission to the Academy

Recommended for ages 7 and up. $729 members, $799 public. Admission for up to 16 people (including birthday child and family); additional people welcome for $40/person. Maximum party size is 40 people total.

Request This Package

Ferocious Fossils

Perfect for aspiring paleontologists! Learn about the giants that used to roam this land and go home with your very own homemade fossil. This package includes:

Guided 30-minute dinosaur-themed craft
Brief talk on fossils
Private 2-hour decorated party space
Party coordinator
Gift for birthday child
Party favors
All-day admission to the Academy

Recommended for ages 5 and up. $729 members, $799 public. Admission for up to 16 people (including birthday child and family); additional people welcome for $40/person. Maximum party size is 40 people total.

Request This Package

Please note: Anyone over the age of 1 is considered a guest, regardless of membership status. A $200 non-refundable deposit is required at time of reservation and the balance is due 30 days prior to your event date. No refunds given for cancellations within 30 days of event.

FAQ

Got birthday party questions? We've got answers!

How many people can attend my party?

All party packages include up to 16 guests (adults and children over the age of 1). You are welcome to add additional guests onto your package at $40 per person, for a maximum of 40 guests total. Your total guest count includes the birthday child and family.

Can I bring food or drinks to my party?

We allow party hosts to bring in a cake or cupcakes if preferred. If you would like to order additional food for your party, there is a selection of choices that can be ordered from the Academy Café for additional cost.

Can I bring decorations to my party?

Your party host will decorate your party space for you—no need to bring anything but yourselves! We ask guests to refrain from bringing additional decor to their party.

Can I explore the museum during or after my party?

Yes! Your party space is booked for your group for two hours, but if your guests want to come and go into the museum, they are welcome to. Your party package includes museum admission for all guests, so guests may arrive earlier than the party or stay later to explore the museum as well.

What kind of party favors are included in the party packages?

All children who attend a birthday party get to take home an Academy goodie bag. The surprises inside vary, but are sure to include toys or similar items that are age-appropriate for the age range of your guests. The birthday child will receive a special gift in addition to a goodie bag!