California Academy of Sciences
San Francisco, California, United States of America
Museum featuring an aquarium, planetarium, and natural history exhibits.
A world-class science museum in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park, blending an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum under one spectacular living roof. Walk through a four-story rainforest dome, gaze at sharks in the coral reef tunnel, explore space in the immersive planetarium, and meet African penguins—all in one place!
Explore the California Academy of Sciences—where a rainforest, aquarium, planetarium, and natural history museum unite under one living roof! A must-visit for families, science lovers, and curious travelers in San Francisco.
Why Visit the California Academy of Sciences?
This world-class science museum in Golden Gate Park offers an unforgettable blend of education and adventure:
All-in-One Experience – Rainforest, aquarium, planetarium & natural history exhibits under a 2.5-acre living roof.
Interactive Learning – Touch tide pool creatures, walk through a flooded Amazon rainforest, and meet African penguins.
Sustainability Leader – A Platinum LEED-certified green building with solar panels and recycled materials.
Perfect for All Ages – Engaging exhibits for kids, teens, and adults.
What to Expect
Must-See Exhibits:
- Steinhart Aquarium – 40,000+ ocean animals, including a coral reef tunnel and playful otters.
- Rainforests of the World – A 4-story indoor rainforest with free-flying birds & butterflies.
- Morrison Planetarium – Cutting-edge space shows on a 75-foot dome screen.
- Kimball Natural History Museum – Dinosaurs, earthquakes, and a T. rex skeleton.
- Living Roof – A rolling garden with 1.7 million native plants (best viewed from the terrace).
Daily Experiences:
- Penguin Feedings (10:30 AM & 3 PM)
- Planetarium Shows (every hour; reserve early)
- Behind-the-Scenes Tours (extra fee)
Tips for the Best Experience
Best Time to Visit:
- Weekday Mornings (less crowded)
- Thursday Nights (21+ "NightLife" events with cocktails & music)
Must-Do Activities:
- Reserve planetarium tickets ASAP (they sell out!).
- Check the daily schedule for animal feedings & talks.
- Visit the rooftop garden for skyline views.
What to Bring:
- Light jacket (some exhibits are cool).
- Reusable water bottle (free refill stations).
Nearby Attractions:
- de Young Museum (5-min walk)
- Japanese Tea Garden (next door)
How to Get There
Address: 55 Music Concourse Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118
Public Transport:
- Muni Bus #5, #44, or N-Judah streetcar (closest stops).
- BART to Civic Center + transfer to bus.
Driving & Parking:
- Parking Garage ($5-$7/hr at Music Concourse Garage).
- Rideshare Drop-off: Use main entrance on Music Concourse Dr.
Final Traveler’s Notes
- Ticket Prices: $39.95 adults (discounts for kids/seniors).
- Hours: 9:30 AM–5 PM (Sat until 7 PM, closed Thanksgiving/Christmas).
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly, sensory guides available.
Explore the California Academy of Sciences—where a rainforest, aquarium, planetarium, and natural history museum unite under one living roof! A must-visit for families, science lovers, and curious travelers in San Francisco.
Why Visit the California Academy of Sciences?
This world-class science museum in Golden Gate Park offers an unforgettable blend of education and adventure:
All-in-One Experience – Rainforest, aquarium, planetarium & natural history exhibits under a 2.5-acre living roof.
Interactive Learning – Touch tide pool creatures, walk through a flooded Amazon rainforest, and meet African penguins.
Sustainability Leader – A Platinum LEED-certified green building with solar panels and recycled materials.
Perfect for All Ages – Engaging exhibits for kids, teens, and adults.
What to Expect
Must-See Exhibits:
- Steinhart Aquarium – 40,000+ ocean animals, including a coral reef tunnel and playful otters.
- Rainforests of the World – A 4-story indoor rainforest with free-flying birds & butterflies.
- Morrison Planetarium – Cutting-edge space shows on a 75-foot dome screen.
- Kimball Natural History Museum – Dinosaurs, earthquakes, and a T. rex skeleton.
- Living Roof – A rolling garden with 1.7 million native plants (best viewed from the terrace).
Daily Experiences:
- Penguin Feedings (10:30 AM & 3 PM)
- Planetarium Shows (every hour; reserve early)
- Behind-the-Scenes Tours (extra fee)
Tips for the Best Experience
Best Time to Visit:
- Weekday Mornings (less crowded)
- Thursday Nights (21+ "NightLife" events with cocktails & music)
Must-Do Activities:
- Reserve planetarium tickets ASAP (they sell out!).
- Check the daily schedule for animal feedings & talks.
- Visit the rooftop garden for skyline views.
What to Bring:
- Light jacket (some exhibits are cool).
- Reusable water bottle (free refill stations).
Nearby Attractions:
- de Young Museum (5-min walk)
- Japanese Tea Garden (next door)
How to Get There
Address: 55 Music Concourse Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118
Public Transport:
- Muni Bus #5, #44, or N-Judah streetcar (closest stops).
- BART to Civic Center + transfer to bus.
Driving & Parking:
- Parking Garage ($5-$7/hr at Music Concourse Garage).
- Rideshare Drop-off: Use main entrance on Music Concourse Dr.
Final Traveler’s Notes
- Ticket Prices: $39.95 adults (discounts for kids/seniors).
- Hours: 9:30 AM–5 PM (Sat until 7 PM, closed Thanksgiving/Christmas).
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly, sensory guides available.
Check for special exhibits and daily programs.
Address
55 Music Concourse Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118Visit
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- Destinations
- About Us
- Blogs
Become A Member
Join the HopDays community of travelers
© 2024 HopDays. All rights reserved. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission.