The Academy is temporarily closed to the public. Learn more about our response to COVID-19.
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While the Academy is temporarily closed, our digital resources are open. Explore Academy @ Home for a variety of engaging, educational, fun, and free science activities you and your family can enjoy wherever you are, whenever you like. We look forward to welcoming you back to the museum soon!
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.
Featured Exhibits
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. Dive the world's most dazzling tropical coral reefs in our newest original show, Expedition Reef, or zoom through the Solar System in Passport to the Universe.
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
VIP 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
Experience your very own overnight at the museum at this unforgettable event for kids 5-17 and their families.
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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.
Where to Eat
Relax and refuel during your visit and enjoy a meal or snack at one of two restaurants offering sustainable, local cuisine.
Just for Kids
Academy exhibits and programs are designed with kids in mind. Check out our top tips for parents traveling with tots.
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Hours
Monday–Saturday
9:30 am–5 pmBuy TicketsSunday
11 am–5 pm -
Member Hours
Tuesday
8:30–9:30 amBecome a MemberSunday
10–11 am
Save 45% or more!
Save 45% on admission to the Academy and 3 more top SF attractions with CityPASS—your best sightseeing value. Includes instant mobile delivery!
Save up to 55% on admission to the Academy and 25 other San Francisco attractions with a Go San Francisco Card.
Contact Us
Have questions about the Academy? We're here to help.
(415) 379-8000