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

  • GIF of alligator, jellyfish, colorful tropical fish
  • Rainforest exterior
  • Masked guest comes eye to eye with an orange fish in the California Coast habitat at the Academy
  • Trex
  • Claude
  • mantis shrimp
  • Rainforest
  • Sea nettle jellyfish glow orange at the California Academy of Sciences
  • A camouflaged scorpionfish rests in an exhibit at the California Academy of Sciences
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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 is 7:30 pm. Proof of full vaccination required; boosters and masks strongly encouraged but not required. Learn more

 

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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el nido philippines
NightLife: Islas
July 7th at 6:00 pm

Calling all kaibigan: tropic like it’s hot for a night dedicated to Filipino arts, culture, and science.

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Explore the museum at night!
NightLife: July 14
July 14th at 6:00 pm

See what’s revealed once the sun goes down and explore the nocturnal side of the Academy. For adults 21+.

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tattoo
NightLife: Inked
July 21st at 6:00 pm

Explore the multicultural—and multispecies—uses of ink. And hey, maybe even get a tattoo.

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craft
NightLife: Summertime Bazaar
July 28th at 6:00 pm

SF Bazaar is back for a summertime event! Explore indie goods and wares from more than 30 local makers.

Free virtual events

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A coyote stands amidst trees

Credit: Jaymi Heimbuch

NightSchool: Nature in Focus
July 7th at 7:00 pm

Hear from photographers whose incredible images reveal stories about the natural world.

More to explore
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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Fanciful photo illustration of s'mores flying through the night sky over the Academy
S'mores & Snores: An Adult Sleepover

Pack your sleeping bag and sense of adventure for an adults-only indoor “camping” experience at the Academy.

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.

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