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 or negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours required.

Heads up! For visits on February 1 and beyond, all NightLife guests must provide proof of full vaccination AND booster (if eligible) in order to enter the Academy. Negative COVID-19 tests will no longer be accepted.

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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mushroom
Fungus Among Us NightLife
January 27th at 6:00 pm

Celebrate the myriad applications of mycelium in a night dedicated to the fascinating world of fungi.

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cha siu bao
Lunar New Year NightLife
February 3rd at 6:00 pm

It’s the year of the tiger, it’s the thrill of the night! Usher in the Lunar New Year at a special NightLife.

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Explore the museum at night
NightLife: February 10
February 10th 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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kamaal williams
Noise Pop NightLife
February 17th at 6:00 pm

Get amped for the return of the official Noise Pop Festival pre-party featuring sets by Kamaal Williams & more!

Free virtual events

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fungus
NightSchool: Fungi Underground
February 3rd at 7:00 pm

We’re digging into the vast underground networks that connect mushrooms, plants, & a whole lot of life.

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

Live a little at NightLife! Enjoy two free drinks 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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