Embark on a nocturnal adventure every Thursday night from 6-10 pm.

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  • nightlife performer dancing in front of audience
  • nightlife attendees viewing jellyfish
  • nightlife attendees dancing and laughing
  • nightlife attendees looking at exhibit
  • nightlife attendees viewing aquarium
  • nightlife scientist speaking to audience
  • nightlife attendees talking and laughing
  • nightlife attendees playing video games
  • nightlife attendees talking and laughing
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NightLife is 6-10 pm every Thursday 
21+ with ID
Prices vary; planetarium passes $5

For guaranteed availability, we strongly recommend purchasing tickets in advance. Last rainforest entry 7:30 pm. Vaccination and indoor masking encouraged but not required.

Buy Tickets

Calling all creatures of the night: reserve your NightLife tickets in advance and see what’s revealed once the sun goes down. Reconnect with favorite faces (we’re looking at you, Claude!) while exploring new and familiar spaces. With nearly 40,000 live animals, two new exhibits, the iconic Shake House and four-story Rainforest, and outdoor dining beneath the stars the night is sure to be wild. For adults 21+.

Can’t attend in person? NightSchool is still in session! Join us virtually via YouTube or Facebook for an eclectic mix of science and culture. Streaming live monthly (and available as recordings afterwards) on the Academy’s YouTube channel and Facebook page.

View upcoming ticketed NightLife events and free virtual NightSchool events below.

Ticketed museum events

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Lil' NightLife
Lil' NightLife
November 3rd at 6:00 pm

Lil’ NightLife, big vibes. Join us for an evening devoted to all the small things—from microbes to tiny homes.

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SpiceLife
SpiceLife
November 10th at 6:00 pm

Spice up your Thursday night and take your tastebuds for a ride at our hottest NightLife yet.

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Explore the museum at night!
NightLife: November 17
November 17th at 6:00 pm

Explore the Academy at night alongside nearly 40,000 live animals. For adults 21+.

Free virtual events

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Whale skeleton submerged in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, covered in octopuses. (Photo: OET/NOAA)
NightSchool: Ephemeral Ecosystems
November 3rd at 7:00 pm

For some environments, “here today, gone tomorrow” is the MO.

Biologists release African penguins onto Boulder Beach
NightSchool: Aquarium Without Walls
November 17th at 7:00 pm

Academy biologists share stories about the diverse field work they do outside of the four walls of the aquarium.

More to explore
An exclusive peek into the Gem and Mineral Vault
NightLife VIP Experience

Live a little at NightLife! Enjoy two free drinks, a tour, and VIP access, plus a snack and sweet discounts.

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!

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