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  • African Penguins
  • Rocky Reef in Steinhart Aquarium; Photo: Kathryn Whitney
  • Color of Life exhibit
  • Osher Rainforest
  • Morrison Planetarium
  • Water Planet
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The California Academy of Sciences is a must-see San Francisco museum. Based in beautiful Golden Gate Park, it’s the only place on Earth to house an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum—all under one living roof. 

From the splashing penguins in African Hall to the wildflowers on the roof, the building is bursting with life. A four-story living rainforest and awe-inspiring coral reef ecosystem showcase Earth’s biodiversity, while immersive planetarium shows offer a new perspective on the planet we call home.

San Francisco resident? Check the Neighborhood Free Weekend schedule to see which upcoming weekend your zip code can visit for free.

The rainforest transports you to a different place. The sounds, smells, and temperature changes immerse you in the experience of a lifetime. We enjoy the experience each and every time we visit!

Laura S.
Yelp

Featured Exhibits

Two guests explore the mysterious Fog Room in the Giants of Land and Sea exhibit

Now open! Giants of Land and Sea
Science becomes sensory as you explore Northern California's super-sized natural wonders through a variety of interactive experiences, from a mysterious Fog Room to a reimagined Shake House.

Steinhart Aquarium
One of the most advanced and biodiverse aquariums in the world, the aquarium is home to the world's deepest living indoor coral reef, a colony of African penguins, and more than 38,000 live animals representing over 900 species—including some you won’t find in any other aquarium.

Morrison Planetarium
Our planetarium is home to one of the largest all-digital domes in the world. The Academy’s VizStudio produces award-winning original shows that tell stories about faraway galaxies—and our home planet—using scientific data to depict the most current discoveries.

Kimball Natural History Museum
Explore majestic dioramas of African landscapes and animals and immerse yourself in exhibits that examine the evolution—and future—of life on Earth.

Osher Rainforest
Trek through a lush, four-story rainforest, housed in a spectacular glass dome while free-flying tropical birds and butterflies soar above and enormous Amazonian fish swim below.

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Events & Programs

Penguins+Pajamas

Make the most of your Academy adventure with dozens of daily programs during your visit and after hours.

Behind-the-Scenes Tours
Book a special guided tour to get a closer look at our live animals, discover our scientific collections, or learn what makes our museum the greenest in the world.

NightLife
On Thursday nights, adults 21 and over can enjoy live music, cocktails, and special activities and entertainment in addition to exploring the entire Academy after dark.

Lectures & Workshops
The Academy partners with scientists from institutions around the world to host lectures on a wide range of topics. Astronomy buffs can learn more about discoveries within the final frontier at our Benjamin Dean Astronomy Lecture series.

Penguins+Pajamas Sleepovers
Spend a night under the starfish! Explore all our exhibits after-hours, enjoy evening snacks and a wild story time, and choose where to roll out your sleeping bag—next to colorful fish or playful penguins?—at this family event.

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What to See and Do

Only have an hour or two? Make the most of your visit with this guide to the Academy's can't-miss visitor favorites.

Suggested Itineraries

Where to Eat

Relax and refuel during your visit and enjoy a meal or snack at one of two restaurants offering sustainable, local cuisine.

Dining Options

Just for Kids

Academy exhibits and programs are designed with kids in mind. Check out our top tips for parents traveling with tots.  

Parent Tips