California Academy of Sciences Tickets San Francisco, CA

55 Music Concourse Drive • San Francisco, CA 94118
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California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco, California
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‘Tis the Season for Science transforms the Academy into a winter wonderland of festive fun and discovery (Nov 23–Jan 5).

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Overview

Step into a world where science, nature, and discovery collide at the California Academy of Sciences! Marvel at a four-story rainforest, dive into a vibrant coral reef, and witness the wonders of the cosmos at the planetarium. Don't miss seasonal delights like ‘Tis the Season for Science. A must-visit San Francisco landmark for all ages!

up to 4 hrs 1 or more people

Good To Know

  • Explore the Osher Rainforest dome with free-flying birds and butterflies and the Philippine Coral Reef, home to 2,000+ marine creatures.
  • Daytime admission includes access to everything at the Academy, including the aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, natural history museum, and Living Roof.
  • Morrison Planetarium shows require advance reservations—available on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • The Living Roof is a 2.5-acre rooftop covered in native plants, offering stunning views of Golden Gate Park.
  • Seasonal exhibits like 'Tis the Season for Science blend holiday cheer with interactive science activities.
  • The Academy is fully accessible, with complimentary wheelchairs available for use.
  • Enjoy dining at the Academy Café and Terrace Restaurant, offering meals and snacks.
  • Conveniently located in Golden Gate Park, with nearby parking and public transit options available.
  • Same-day re-entry is allowed with hand stamp—request one before exiting.
  • Children 2 and under enjoy free admission.
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Description

Based in the heart of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, California Academy of Sciences is the only place in the world where an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum come together under one living roof. Recognized as one of the greenest museums globally, it features nearly 60,000 live animals, interactive exhibits, and new displays added annually. Every visit supports the Academy's mission to regenerate the natural world.

Highlights & Events
  • 'Tis the Season for Science (NEW): Celebrate the holidays with wintry activities for all ages, from meeting baby reindeer, camels, and yaks to enjoying daily festive programming like music, dance, magic performances, falling snow, and icy science experiments. (Nov. 23–Jan. 5)
  • California: State of Nature (NEW): Discover California's rich biodiversity across four ecosystems with fascinating specimens, interactive displays, and multimedia.
  • Kimball Natural History Museum: Meet African penguins during live feedings, explore rare specimens, and more.
  • Living Roof: Stroll through 2.5 acres of native wildflowers, fields, and habitats for birds, bees, and butterflies.
  • Osher Rainforest: Enter a four-story glass dome teeming with tropical plants, free-flying birds, and butterflies.
  • Steinhart Aquarium: Explore over 1,000 species and 60,000 animals in one of the most biologically diverse and interactive aquariums.
  • The Swamp: Say hello to Claude, the Academy's iconic albino alligator, and his snapping turtle companions.

Note: Last entry is one hour before closing. Holiday hours are subject to change.
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Two fluffy calves stand in a sunny dirt pen next to a wooden fence, with clear blue skies in the background. The DJ at Nightlife - California Academy of Sciences cheerfully plays the beat to hype the crowd. California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco, California California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco, California Creatures of the night as what they called the Nightlife guests dancing on the upbeat music at the outdoor bars with ambiance lighting, and nearly 60,000 live animals.
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California Academy of Sciences photo submitted by Aarohi Savani
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California Academy of Sciences is located at 55 Music Concourse Drive • San Francisco, CA 94118
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Frequently Asked Questions about California Academy of Sciences

Are the exhibits fully accessible?

Yes, the California Academy of Sciences is fully wheelchair accessible, with free manual wheelchairs available at Coat Check (photo ID required). Exhibits feature detection points and tactile elements for the visually impaired, auditory signals in elevators, and transcripts for Planetarium shows. Assistive listening devices are provided in select areas, and interpreters for deaf or hard-of-hearing visitors receive free admission.

Where do I park for California Academy of Sciences?

You can access the Music Concourse parking garage via the Fulton St./10th Ave. entrance or the Music Concourse Dr./MLK Dr. entrance. Free street parking is also available on MLK Dr., Nancy Pelosi Dr., and Stow Lake Dr.

How long should I plan to spend at California Academy of Sciences?

There is no time limit, but most visitors spend about 3 hours exploring the Academy.

Do you need reservations for California Academy of Science?

Visitors are encouraged to book their tickets ahead of time, but it is not required. Please note that tickets purchased prior to your visit date will be less expensive than tickets purchased on the day of your visit.

Can I re-enter after leaving the building?

Re-entry is allowed; visitors must obtain a hand stamp or show their ticket at the entrance.

What dining options are available at California Academy of Sciences?

The Academy Café serves a variety of family-friendly food and beverage options, as well as Andytown Coffee drinks. Guests are welcome to dine in the Café or in any of their outdoor spaces. The Terrace Restaurant serves seasonal dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients, plus beer and wine.

Can you bring food into California Academy of Sciences?

Guests are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages. Please head to the East Garden to consume items brought from home.

Are lockers available?

Yes, lockers are located just off the main lobby and are available for rent for $5 per day for standard-size lockers and $8 per day for family-size lockers. Lockers are checked frequently and cleaned and disinfected daily. Payment for lockers is by credit card only.

Are there bike racks at the museum?

Bike racks are available outside the museum for visitors who choose to cycle to the venue.

Can I bring a stroller into the museum?

Yes, strollers are allowed throughout the museum and exhibits.

What is NightLife, and who can attend?

NightLife is a 21+ event held every Thursday evening from 6–10 PM. It combines music, cocktails, and after-hours museum access for a unique experience.

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