Best time to visit
Arrive within the first hour of opening for the shortest queues and best photo light.
California Academy of Sciences
Last reviewed June 2026 by James Morgan. AI-assisted, human-edited. Our editorial standards
About California Academy of Sciences
Journey from deep sea to deep space under one living roof, with an aquarium, planetarium, and four-story rainforest.
In Golden Gate Park, the California Academy of Sciences gathers an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum under a single living roof.
What you'll see and do - Visit the Steinhart Aquarium, home to nearly 60,000 animals - Travel the cosmos in the Morrison Planetarium - Climb through the four-story Osher Rainforest among free-flying birds and butterflies - Get hands-on at the Kimball Natural History Museum and catch daily feedings and diver presentations
Attraction Details
Facilities
- Toilets
- Gift Shop
- Baby Changing
- Food Options
- Parking
- Pushchair Friendly
- Wheelchair Friendly
Events at California Academy of Sciences
Vivid: Immerse Your Senses
Ongoing through September 6
A sense-ational new exhibit inviting visitors to experience six ecosystems through sight, sound, smell, and touch.
Tiny Chef, Big Impact
Closing May 31
Internet superstar Tiny Chef presents a new film, exhibit, and photo ops, serving culinary cuteness and chaos.
Sea Slug Search
May 1–31
Head to the coast during low tide to find sea slugs, share observations, and help deepen understanding of these tidepool treasures.
NightLife
Thursdays, 6-10 p.m.
An adult-only weekly event illuminating the unusual intersection of art and science.
Birthdays the science way
Weekends
Celebrate a child's special day at the Academy with up to 16 guests, a science-savvy host, and goodie bags.
Head outside for science!
April through June
Join bioblitzes along the coast or in your neighborhood to generate critical biodiversity data using a smartphone.
NightLife: Mabuhay
May 28 at 6:00 pm
A NightLife event celebrating Filipino pride and feel-good energy.
Plan Your Visit
Family-tested advice for a smoother day at California Academy of Sciences.
Who it's for
All ages
Getting there
Onsite or nearby parking available at 55 Music Concourse Dr.
Pro tip
Pack snacks, refillable water bottles and a portable charger to keep the day running smoothly.
Directions
California Academy of Sciences
55 Music Concourse Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118
This attraction has been claimed and verified.
Last updated 6/23/2026
California Academy of Sciences Reviews
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