Curiosity Grove

  • The iconic climbing tree framed by an all-new colorful mural inside the new Curiosity Grove educational play space.
  • A boy in a deer costume plays with an interactive puzzle in the new Curiosity Grove educational play space.
  • A panoramic view inside the colorful new Curiosity Grove educational play space.
Young imaginations blossom in Curiosity Grove, a forest-themed environment perfect for little learners. Early childhood programs, an expanded playspace, and enchanting murals await explorers of all ages.

This completely reimagined educational playspace features vibrant, animal-filled murals that bring California’s diverse forest ecosystems to life, interactive, science-themed games and toys, and a variety of kid-friendly public programs.

Kids playing with the colorful wall puzzle in the new Curiosity Grove

What's New?

Updates abound! No more lines makes entry a breeze, easy-to-clean flooring means shoes can stay on, and relaxed age restrictions mean everyone’s welcome. Plus, moms can nurse in a new, secluded nook and restrooms are now all-gender and family-friendly. 

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A young explorer emerges from a secret hiding place below the climbing tree in Curiosity Grove.

Space for Adventure

Whether your child is captivated by forest canopies or a library full of field guides, the Grove is packed with enough activities and more open space for curious, growing minds—and plenty of excess energy.

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Young visitors explore the kid-friendly specimens on exhibit.

Animal Encounters

Curiosity Grove is home to some very special residents: a colony of Madagascar hissing cockroaches and an Eastern box turtle. Eye-level tanks make observing these not-so-creepy crawlers easy for little ones.

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Portrait of illustrator Alexander Vidal, the artist who created the woodland murals in Curiosity Grove.

About the Muralist

The man behind Curiosity Grove's magical murals is LA-based illustrator and designer Alexander Vidal. His favorite part of creating these murals? Showing all the amazing creatures who call California home.

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Experience the Wonder

Visit an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum—all under one living roof.

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Hours & location

Curiosity Grove is open daily, 10 am-4 pm. It's located right next to the Lab Junior Store on the main floor.

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Contact us
Have questions about the Academy? We're here to help.  
info@calacademy.org
(415) 379-8000

More Kid-Friendly Attractions

Explore the Academy's other spaces for hands-on learning.
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A visitor inspecting the Naturalist Center cabinets filled with specimens, books, and more.
Naturalist Center

Welcome to the Academy's hub for exploration, with books, games, specimens, and more. Open daily; hours vary.

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A young girl interacts through the glass with an African penguin in Tusher African Hall.
Parent Tips

Explore tips and age-specific suggestions to help parents and caregivers plan a successful, stress-free visit.