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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Plan ahead and save! Buy online at least one day in advance to lock in the lowest price on NightLife tickets.  For more information, see our Plan-Ahead Pricing FAQ.

NightLife is 21+ with ID. Last entry to rainforest dome is at 7:45 pm. Planetarium passes available for purchase online. Member discount applied after login. 

Buy Tickets

Enjoy music, creatures, and cocktails and a thought-provoking new theme every Thursday night. NightLife is your ticket to the nocturnal side of the Academy. For adults 21+ with ID.

Upcoming Events

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Women Scientists
Women in Science NightLife
March 5th at 6:00 pm

NightLife is celebrating International Women’s Day and giving the spotlight to women in science.

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Bowl of chili peppers
SpiceLife
March 12th at 6:00 pm

Spice up your NightLife with an evening dedicated to the cool science behind mild, medium & flaming hot peppers.

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Analog
Analog NightLife
March 19th at 6:00 pm

Tune into NightLife when the museum transforms into a phone-free zone dedicated to life in the analog.

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Jellyfish
Venom NightLife
March 26th at 6:00 pm

NightLife shrinks you down to size with venomous animals to kick-off the opening of our new exhibit, Venom.

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coral reef
Under the Sea Prom NightLife
April 9th at 6:00 pm

You’re invited to have the time of your life at NightLife’s annual "Under the Sea" prom!

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