California Academy of Sciences Tickets

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California Academy of Sciences
























































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California Academy of Sciences | A journey through science and nature

The California Academy of Sciences is a remarkable institution that combines a natural history museum, planetarium, and aquarium all under one roof! Step inside and be amazed by the wonders of our planet and beyond. Discover fascinating exhibits showcasing the diversity of life on Earth, venture into the depths of the oceans, and gaze at the stars in the awe-inspiring planetarium. Stay on this page as we dive into what makes this institution a must-visit, ticket options, and more!

Why visit the California Academy of Sciences?

California Academy of Sciences
  • A tropical ecosystem in the heart of San Francisco: The museum houses a four-story rainforest under a stunning glass canopy, featuring free-flying birds, butterflies, and exotic plants, providing a truly immersive and educational experience.
  • Witness a ‘Living Roof’: Ascend to the museum's living roof, covered in native plant species, and solar panels, and designed to mimic the natural landscape. 
  • Journey through the cosmos in a state-of-the-art dome: The universe comes to life in one of the world's largest all-digital planetariums at the Morrison Planetarium.
  • Dive into the depths of Earth's aquatic wonders: The Steinhart Aquarium features diverse exhibits, including a mesmerizing coral reef, interactive tide pools, and a breathtaking "Twilight Zone" showcasing the mysterious creatures of the deep sea.
  • Unravel the Earth's past: Embark on a time-traveling adventure through the Kimball Natural History Museum, where interactive displays and life-size replicas (including the T-Rex) bring the evolution of life on Earth to vivid reality.

Explore the wonders of our planet at the California Academy of Sciences

California Academy of Sciences

Rainforest Dome

Immerse yourself in the lush greenery of the Rainforest Dome, where towering trees and exotic wildlife transport you to a vibrant oasis. Did you know that this dome replicates the climate and conditions of a real rainforest, making it the perfect place to learn about biodiversity?

California Academy of Sciences
California Academy of Sciences
California Academy of Sciences
California Academy of Sciences

Plan your visit

General hours

  • Monday to Saturday: 9:30 AM - 5 PM
  • Sunday: 11 AM - 5 PM
  • Thursday NightLife (21 years and above with ID): 6 -10 PM

Last entry: 4 PM

Closed on: Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day

Best time to visit: We recommend arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon on a weekday to avoid peak crowds. This way, you'll have more space to explore and immerse yourself in the fascinating exhibits.

Holiday hours

  • Christmas Eve (24 December): 11 AM to 5 PM (Member hour 10 to 11 AM)
  • Christmas Day (25 December): 11 AM - 5 PM
  • 26 December: 9:30 AM - 6 PM (Member hour 8:30 to 9:30 AM)
  • 27 to 30 December: 9:30 AM - 6 PM
  • New Year's Eve (31 December): 11 AM - 5 PM (Member hour 10 to 11 AM)
  • New Year's Day (1 January 2024): 9:30 AM - 5 PM

Timings for members only

  • Tuesday: 8:30 - 9:30 AM
  • Sunday: 10 - 11 AM

Exhibit timings

Osher Rainforest timings:

  • Monday to Saturday: 10 AM - 4:45 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM)
  • Sunday: 11 AM - 4:45 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM)
  • Thursday NightLife (21 years and above with ID): 6-7:45 PM (last admission at 7:30 PM)

Morrison Planetarium show timings:
Show times vary daily. Check the Daily Calendar for the schedule.
*Please note that children under 4 are not permitted to attend the shows. Additionally, the shows may not be suitable for children under 7.

California Academy of Sciences

Address: 55 Music Concourse Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118, USA | Find on Maps

  • By MUNI: Take a MUNI bus or metro.
    Closest stop: 44 O'Shaughnessy
  • By shuttle: Free Golden Gate Park shuttles are available.
    Closest pick-up points: JFK Dr. and Music Concourse Dr.
  • By BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit): Get to the nearest tram station and then take a bus or hire a bike.
    Closest stop: Montgomery St. Station/Glen Park Station
  • By car: 15.2 miles from the San Francisco International Airport.
    Parking: The Music Concourse Garage
California Academy of Sciences
  • Family restrooms
  • Baby-changing stations
  • Lockers
  • Wheelchair rentals
  • Gift shop
  • Dining options
  • Elevators
California Academy of Sciences
  • The California Academy of Sciences is accessible to everyone, including all its exhibits. 
  • Ramps and elevators are available for ease of mobility throughout the facility. 
  • Sensory exhibits are available for guests with specific needs. 
  • Wheelchairs are available for rent at the entrance of the Academy.
  • Wheelchair-friendly restrooms are present across the facility.

*Please contact a member of staff if you require further assistance.

California Academy of Sciences dining

Exploring the California Academy of Sciences can work up quite an appetite! Luckily, we have excellent dining options within the museum.

  • Academy Café: The Academy Café offers a variety of delicious food, including salads, sandwiches, and pastries. 
  • The Terrace Room: If you prefer a more upscale dining experience, this elegant restaurant awaits you with its delectable menu, with food cooked using locally sourced ingredients.
California Academy of Sciences shop

For an exciting selection of themed items, gifts, science and nature memorabilia, merchandise, and more, visit the Academy Store.

The store is open daily during the operating hours of the Academy.

California Academy of Sciences
  • Be patient while making your way to different exhibits. The staff may ask you to wait for other groups to exit before entering certain spaces to avoid overcrowding.
  • Try not to linger for too long at one spot, especially on busy days. Keep moving to allow crowds to flow through the museum’s exhibits. 
  • Exercise courtesy by sticking to the right side and allowing faster-moving visitors to pass by. 
  • Make sure you or your children don’t run inside the Academy. This will help avoid accidents and running into other guests. If your kids need a break and want to run around, take them to the East and West Gardens for some outdoor playtime.
California Academy of Sciences Visitor tips
  • The Academy offers a variety of daily shows, feedings, and demonstrations. Check the schedule ahead of time to plan your visit around these events. 
  • Don't miss the opportunity to explore the Living Roof and other outdoor spaces of the California Academy of Sciences. The Living Roof offers beautiful views of the surrounding area, making it the perfect spot to take a break during your visit.
  • Save time by getting your tickets online and in advance. This will let you bypass queues and make the most of your visit without spending excessive time waiting in lines.
  • Set aside at least 3-4 hours to really explore all the exhibits and maybe even attend a live show.
  • Avoid weekends and public holidays for a more relaxed experience without large crowds.

Frequently asked questions about California Academy of Sciences tickets

Yes! Book your tickets to the California Academy of Sciences here.