A new adventure unfolds every Thursday night from 6–10 pm.

  • Fanciful illustration of NightLife guests and Academy animals by artist Lydia Ortiz
    Illustration by Lydia Ortiz
  • Trex
    Photo by Tim Williamson
  • coral reef
    Photo by Milan Bhatt
  • Rainforest
    Photo by Tim Williamson
  • Hot Flash Heat Wave
    Photo By John Hartsfield
  • Amazon exhibit
    Photo by Milan Bhatt
  • Project Lab
    Photo by Jason Mongue
  • live painting
    Photo by Jason Mongue
  • See science differently at NightLife, every Thursday at the Academy from 6-10 pm. For adults 21 and up.
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Dear NightLife guests: The health and safety of our guests, staff, partners, and community always come first. In response to the latest coronavirus (COVID-19) guidelines from local and state public health authorities, the Academy is currently temporarily closed to the public, and NightLife events have been postponed. We apologize for the inconvenience and look forward to welcoming you back to the museum when it is safe to do so.

In the meantime, join our livestream on Thursday evenings! During Virtual NightLife events, we’ll bring you an eclectic mix of science, music, and art, and when NightSchool is in session, we’ll take deeper dives into a single science-related theme. Streaming Thursdays at 7 pm PDT on the Academy’s YouTube channel and Facebook page. Recordings of all livestreams are also available on our YouTube channel.

Learn more about the Academy's response to COVID-19, and explore how you can enjoy Academy science from home.

Upcoming Events

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sea otter
NightSchool: Sea Otters and the Bay
September 24th at 7:00 pm

Squee! Learn about the past and future of sea otters in the Bay and get a peek into the Mammalogy collections.

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sharks
Virtual NightLife: Sharktoberfest
October 1st at 7:00 pm

Sharktoberfest celebrates two annual events dear to our hearts: the return of white sharks and a salute to beer.

More To Explore
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Visitors explore the Living Roof during NightLife.
NightLife VIP Tours

Brighten up your evening with a private reception, 2 free drinks, light bites, discounts, and an Academy tour.

A group of guests looking at the California Coast exhibit
The Hive

Join this group of donors in their 20s and 30s and enjoy a NightLife season pass and Party After Dark ticket!

Private Lounge Rentals

Looking for a one-of-a-kind space to throw a party? Book the NightLife Private Lounge.

Plan an Event
Group Tickets

Have a group of 10 or more? Check out our group rates.

Learn More
Food & Drink

A variety of food options are available at NightLife from 6-9:30 pm, including the Academy Café, and Academy Food Cart located in the front lobby.

Enjoy a new seasonal "craft on draft" cocktail at each NightLife bar, designed by resident mixologist Shane McKnight. Plus, enjoy a weekly menu of beer, wine, and spirits.

Join The Hive

Interested in a NightLife season pass? Join the Hive—the Academy's excluive membership for ages 21-40. Perks include a ticket to Party After Dark, and more!

Learn More

Connect With NightLife
#CASNightLife