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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Lunar New Year
Lunar New Year NightLife
January 23rd at 6:00 pm

Get a second chance to kick off the new year with a night devoted to Lunar New Year traditions!

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sewing
How-To NightLife
January 30th at 6:00 pm

Join us for how-to, hands-on demos and workshops to help you learn useful crafts and skills for adulting.

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coffee
Buzzed NightLife
February 6th at 6:00 pm

Wake up and smell the coffee (& chocolate!) at NightLife's tribute to the Bay Area's favorite way to get buzzed.

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Beer close up
SF Beer Week NightLife
February 13th at 6:00 pm

NightLife partners with SF Beer Week for a hopping evening of tasty local brews. Cheers!

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Noise Pop
Noise Pop NightLife
February 20th at 6:00 pm

Explore the science of sound and kick off Noise Pop Music and Arts Festival with a DJ set by Washed Out + more!

More To Explore
Aerial photo of couple kissing on the boardwalk next to the Osher Rainforest
A Valentine’s Sleepover for Adults

On February 14, celebrate the human side of chemistry at the Academy's Valentine's Day sleepover for adults 21+.

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

Join the newest membership group for people in their 20s and 30s. Hive members enjoy a NightLife Season Pass.

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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.

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