Explore the Academy at night
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Calling all creatures of the night: explore the nocturnal side of the Academy at NightLife and see what's revealed. With live DJs, outdoor bars, ambiance lighting, and nearly 60,000 live animals (including familiar faces like Claude, our alligator with albinism), the night is sure to be wild.

Step inside the iconic Shake House and our four-story Osher Rainforest, where you can explore the Amazon’s treetops surrounded by free-flying birds and butterflies.

Venture into our aquarium exhibit Venom to encounter live venomous animals and learn the power of venom to both harm and heal.

Bask in the glow of one of the largest living indoor coral reef displays in the world: our 212,000-gallon Philippine Coral Reef habitat.

Take in the interstellar views from the Living Roof, then grab a bite from the Academy Café and head to the West Garden outdoor bar to drink and dine under the stars.

Nightlife is supported by Local Motion® Vodka Sodas, light, refreshing, and simply made with vodka, carbonated water, and natural flavors. Grab a can of Local Motion® at bars throughout NightLife this year!

Music

NightLife rules, regs, and reminders

NightLife is for adults 21+ only. Valid, physical photo ID required.

Last entry into Osher Rainforest is 7:30 pm — our animals need their sleep.

Morrison Planetarium passes are available online in advance for $5 each while supplies last. Showtimes are 6:30, 7:30, 8:30, and 9:30 pm. A limited number of standby seats will be available for all showtimes as space allows on a first-come, first-served basis.

Gems and Minerals Unearthed opens to the public at 8:30 pm. It is reserved for NightLife Plus guests from 6 - 8:30 pm.

Food and drink are not permitted in Osher Rainforest, Morrison Planetarium, or the Swamp.

Help everyone stay healthy: It's not required, but we encourage all guests to stay up-to-date on their vaccinations and to mask up indoors. If you’re feeling sick or have been in close contact with someone who has recently tested positive for COVID-19 or another respiratory virus, please visit another time. View our health and safety page.

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Upcoming events

October 10th at 6:00 pm

Explore the Academy at night alongside nearly 60,000 live animals.

October 17th at 6:00 pm

NightLife’s reppin’ the YAY AREAAA with Bay Area history, music that slaps, and hella local love.

October 24th at 6:00 pm

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

October 31st at 6:00 pm

Everyone’s entitled to one good scare–serve up your spookiest looks at NightLife. With performances by Oaklash.

November 14th at 6:00 pm

Explore the nocturnal side of the Academy and see what makes the museum at night different.