ZooCalifornia, US

California Academy of Sciences

The California Academy of Sciences stands as a beacon of natural wonder and scientific exploration in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park.

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About

The California Academy of Sciences stands as a beacon of natural wonder and scientific exploration in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park. This world-class institution uniquely combines an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum, all nestled under an iconic living roof. It's a vibrant center dedicated to exploring, explaining, and sustaining life on Earth, offering visitors an unparalleled journey through diverse ecosystems and scientific discoveries.

Step into the humid, four-story Osher Rainforest, teeming with over 1,600 live plants and animals, including free-flying birds, colorful butterflies, slithering Amazonian tree boas, and mesmerizing poison dart frogs. Descend into the depths of the Steinhart Aquarium, home to nearly 60,000 animals representing over 900 unique species, from a charming colony of African penguins and the vibrant Philippine Coral Reef to elusive flashlight fish and the celebrated albino alligator, Claude. The Kimball Natural History Museum transports you through time with impressive displays like an 87-foot-long blue whale skeleton, a towering T. rex fossil, and the "Hidden Wonders" exhibit showcasing millions of specimens, including ancient ammonite fossils and a Galápagos tortoise specimen.

More than just a collection of exhibits, the California Academy of Sciences offers an immersive and educational experience that captivates all ages. From soaring through the cosmos in the Morrison Planetarium to feeling the rumble of an earthquake in the Shake House, every visit is an adventure. The institution's commitment to research and conservation, visible through its active scientific programs and stunning architectural design, makes it a memorable destination that inspires a deeper connection to the natural world. Be ready to snap and learn! Get the Snappit app to identify any nature species you find here.

The California Academy of Sciences was founded in 1853 as the California Academy of Natural Sciences, just three years after California joined the United States, making it the first scientific academy of its kind in the Western US. Early collections were housed in a museum on Market Street, which drew up to 80,000 visitors annually. However, much of the Academy's collection and facilities were tragically destroyed in the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and subsequent fires. Fortunately, a two-year expedition to the Galápagos Islands at the time meant invaluable specimens were preserved, forming the nucleus of future collections. In 1916, the Academy relocated to Golden Gate Park, which has been its permanent home ever since. Significant additions followed, including the opening of the Steinhart Aquarium in 1923, the Simson African Hall in 1934, and the Morrison Planetarium in 1952. The current state-of-the-art building, completely rebuilt and reopened in 2008, continues the Academy's legacy of scientific research, education, and public engagement.

What to do here

Catch the daily African Penguin feedings (10:30 AM and 3:00 PM) and Coral Reef Dives (11:30 AM and 1:30 PM).

* Secure passes for a Morrison Planetarium show immediately upon arrival.

* Take the elevator down from the top of the Osher Rainforest to view the flooded Amazonian forest.

* Explore hands-on exhibits like the Shake House and touch an ancient ammonite fossil in "Hidden Wonders."

Seasonal info

The Osher Rainforest maintains a warm and humid environment, so dressing in layers is advisable for comfort. Thursday NightLife events offer a unique adults-only (21+) experience with music, cocktails, and special programming.

Accessibility

The Academy provides wheelchair accessibility throughout its main exhibits. Wheelchair spaces are available in the nearby Music Concourse Garage.

Don't miss

Steinhart Aquarium

Watch the African penguins, explore the Philippine Coral Reef, and find Claude the albino alligator.

Osher Rainforest

Ascend through four stories of living rainforest, encountering free-flying birds and butterflies.

Morrison Planetarium

Experience immersive shows about the universe (reserve passes upon arrival).

Kimball Natural History Museum

Marvel at the T. rex and blue whale skeletons, and discover specimens in "Hidden Wonders."

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

California Poppy

Yarrow

American Robin

Bee

Dark Eyed Junco

Red Tailed Hawk

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

Buy Tickets Online in Advance

To save time and potentially skip lines, especially on busy days, purchase your admission tickets through the Academy's website before your visit.

Arrive Early for Planetarium & Rainforest: Planetarium passes are often distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, and the Osher Rainforest can develop long lines later in the day due to limited capacity. Arriving at opening allows you to secure your spots for these popular attractions.

Utilize Public Transportation

Located in Golden Gate Park, the Academy is well-served by Muni bus and metro lines. Using public transit can save you money on admission and help you avoid parking challenges, especially on weekends when the Music Concourse Garage fills up quickly.

Check Daily Schedule

Upon arrival, check the daily calendar for live animal feedings (like the African penguins), coral reef dives, and special presentations or shows to plan your day effectively.

Dress in Layers

The Osher Rainforest is kept warm and humid to replicate its natural environment, while other areas of the museum are climate-controlled. Dressing in layers will ensure your comfort throughout your visit.

Consider an All-Adult Evening

If you're 21+, check out "NightLife" on Thursday evenings for a unique, adults-only experience with music, cocktails, and special programs without the daytime crowds.

Frequently asked questions

: The California Academy of Sciences uniquely houses four major attractions under one roof: the Steinhart Aquarium, the Morrison Planetarium, the Osher Rainforest, and the Kimball Natural History Museum. Additionally, visitors can explore a 2.5-acre Living Roof, experience the Shake House earthquake simulator, and engage with various temporary and permanent science exhibits.
: Yes, the California Academy of Sciences is very family-friendly and offers many attractions suitable for young children. They particularly enjoy the African penguins, the diverse marine life in the Steinhart Aquarium, and the free-flying birds and butterflies in the Osher Rainforest. There are also interactive exhibits and programs designed for kids. Note that children under 4 are not permitted in the Morrison Planetarium shows.
: Visitors can often save on admission by purchasing tickets online in advance, especially during peak times. Public transportation users may receive a discount. Additionally, if you plan to visit multiple San Francisco attractions, consider purchasing a CityPASS or Go City: San Francisco Explorer Pass, which often include the California Academy of Sciences.