California Academy of Sciences
California Academy of Sciences - Photo 2
California Academy of Sciences - Photo 3
California Academy of Sciences - Photo 4
California Academy of Sciences - Photo 5
Direct Entry Attraction

California Academy of Sciences

At a glance

Ticket type

E-ticket / Mobile

Confirmation

Instant

Accessibility

Wheelchair friendly

Suitable for

All ages

Highlights

  • Explore Steinhart Aquarium with nearly 60,000 animals and 800+ species.

  • Walk through the four-story Osher Rainforest.

  • Journey through the universe at the immersive Morrison Planetarium.

  • Discover fascinating specimens and exhibits at the Kimball Natural History Museum.

  • Enjoy interactive and educational exhibits exploring Earth, nature, and biodiversity.

Ticket Options

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Night Admission

Non-refundable
Adult -1%
SGD 44.09 SGD 43.78
No package is available on this selected date. Try another date.

About California Academy of Sciences

Step into a living laboratory where science and nature thrive under one iconic green roof in the heart of Golden Gate Park. Wander through an immersive rainforest, explore an aquarium teeming with 60,000 marine creatures, and journey among the stars—all while discovering how our planet’s ecosystems connect and inspire us.

Local Legends & Stories

Founded in 1853, the California Academy of Sciences is one of the oldest and largest natural history museums in the United States. It has long been a cornerstone of San Francisco’s cultural and scientific legacy, inspiring generations of explorers and educators.

Must Do Experiences

  • Swim alongside sharks and rays in the Steinhart Aquarium’s oceanic tunnel.

  • Float through the misty, four-story Osher Rainforest among free-roaming lemurs and tropical birds.

  • Sink into the Morrison Planetarium’s dome theater for a mesmerizing cosmic journey.

  • Browse rare fossils, gemstones, and natural history treasures in the Kimball Museum.

Hidden Gems

  • Visit the Academy’s rooftop garden early to spot native California butterflies and wildflowers.

  • Join a free ranger talk or animal feeding demonstration for behind-the-scenes insights.

  • Peek into the conservation labs through glass walls to see scientists at work on real research projects.

What Makes it Special

  • The world’s largest living roof houses native plants and regulates the building’s climate naturally.

  • Four distinct museums—aquarium, rainforest, planetarium, and natural history—are seamlessly connected under one roof.

  • NightLife events blend science exploration with live music and DJ sets for a unique after-hours experience.

Available Facilities

Café and seating areas gift shop wheelchair accessibility lockers audio guides family restrooms free Wi-Fi

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Weekday mornings are typically less crowded, offering a more relaxed exploration. Spring and early summer bring blooming rooftop gardens and active wildlife. Evening NightLife events provide a vibrant, social atmosphere with music and themed science experiences.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

  • Use a camera with good low-light performance for the aquarium and rainforest exhibits.

  • Avoid flash photography to protect sensitive animals and enhance your experience.

  • Capture the sweeping architecture of the living roof and the planetarium’s dome from the main atrium.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Respect all signage and barriers designed to protect delicate ecosystems and animals. Engage with educators and volunteers—they’re passionate about sharing science stories. Participate in interactive exhibits thoughtfully to maintain a positive environment for all visitors.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

  • NightLife: After-hours admission featuring live music, DJ sets, and themed science activities.

  • Holiday programs and special exhibitions during winter break.

  • Annual Earth Day celebrations with conservation workshops and family-friendly performances.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

  • Watch your step on wet surfaces in the rainforest and aquarium areas.

  • Keep hands off exhibits and animals to ensure safety for both visitors and wildlife.

  • Supervise children closely, especially near water displays and open floor areas.

Visitor Information

Entry Fee

Adult admission is priced at a standard rate, with discounted tickets available for seniors, students, and children. Online bookings often include time-slot reservations and occasional promotional offers.

Visit Duration

Plan for 3 to 4 hours to experience all major exhibits at a comfortable pace. If you attend a NightLife event or special program, you may easily spend 5 or more hours exploring.

Accessibility

The entire facility is wheelchair accessible with elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms throughout. Assistive listening devices and adaptive programs are available upon request.

Overview

Discover the wonders of science and nature at the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park. Explore an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum all under one living roof, with fascinating wildlife, immersive exhibits, and hands-on experiences for visitors of all ages.

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

Important Information

Opening Hours

Open from 06/24-12/31, Mon-Wed, Fri-Sat, 9:30am-5:00pm<br>Open from 06/24-12/31, Thu, 9:30am-5:00pm, 6:00pm-10:00pm<br>Open from 06/24-12/31, Sun, 11:00am-5:00pm

What's Included

  • Special lectures, demonstrations, and performances; Live music and DJ
  • NightLife Admission
1

Select your preferred date and ticket type, then add to cart.

2

Complete secure payment at checkout.

3

Receive instant e-ticket confirmation via email.

4

Show your mobile or printed voucher at the venue.

  • Please note! Nightlife is only available on Thursdays!
  • Opening hours: Thu 6:00 PM–10:00 PM; last entry at 9:00 PM.
  • For more operating hours, please refer to the attraction's official website. https://www.calacademy.org/nightlife Location of use California Academy of Sciences Ticket gate Time of use 18:00~22:00(Open on Thu)

Location

55 Music Concourse Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118, United States

Frequently Asked Questions

General admission includes access to the Steinhart Aquarium, Morrison Planetarium, Osher Rainforest, and the Kimball Natural History Museum. All exhibits and daily public programs under the living roof are included in the entry ticket.
Most visitors spend between three to four hours exploring the four main attractions and participating in daily demonstrations. You may need additional time if you plan to eat at the on-site cafes or attend a specific planetarium show.
The four-story glass dome houses free-flying butterflies, birds, and bats in a climate-controlled environment replicating a tropical rainforest. Visitors walk along a spiraling path that takes them from the canopy down to the flooded Amazonian forest floor.
The museum is located at 55 Music Concourse Drive in Golden Gate Park. It is accessible via the Muni N-Judah light rail line or several bus routes, including the 44 and 5, which stop near the Music Concourse.
Yes, the facility is highly family-friendly and features interactive areas like the Tidepool Touch Tank specifically designed for early learners. Strollers are permitted throughout the museum, though they must be parked outside the rainforest dome.
The entire facility, including the aquarium, planetarium, and natural history museum, is fully wheelchair accessible with elevators and ramps. Wheelchairs are available for complimentary loan at the coat check on a first-come, first-served basis.
Arriving right at the 9:00 AM opening time or visiting on weekday afternoons typically offers the smallest crowds. Weekends, holidays, and Thursday nights during the adult-only NightLife events are generally the busiest periods.
Large backpacks, luggage, and tripods are not permitted inside the exhibits and must be stored in the coat check. Food and drinks from outside are not allowed in the exhibit areas, though sealed water bottles are permitted.
General admission tickets are valid for a single entry on the specific date selected at the time of purchase. Timed-entry tickets are required for the planetarium shows, which are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis upon arrival.
The museum features the Academy Cafe for quick snacks and coffee, and the Moss Room for sit-down meals using sustainable ingredients. Visitors are also welcome to eat packed lunches in the designated outdoor picnic areas in Golden Gate Park.

About California Academy of Sciences

Weekday mornings are typically less crowded, offering a more relaxed exploration. Spring and early summer bring blooming rooftop gardens and active wildlife. Evening NightLife events provide a vibrant, social atmosphere with music and themed science experiences.
Plan for 3 to 4 hours to experience all major exhibits at a comfortable pace. If you attend a NightLife event or special program, you may easily spend 5 or more hours exploring.

Explore the California Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park, where you can experience a unique combination of an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum all in one visit. With interactive exhibits, engaging shows, and educational programs, you’re set for a thrilling science adventure.


Dive into the depths of the world’s deepest living indoor coral reef, home to nearly 60,000 animals representing over 1,000 species. Visit African Hall to meet Pogo and Ozzie, the newest members of the African penguin colony, and don’t miss Claude, the Academy’s famous albino alligator.


Discover the natural beauty of California in the new exhibit, California: State of Nature, showcasing the state’s vast and diverse ecosystems. From forests and deserts to coasts and cities, explore the intricate connections between species, environments, and people through scientific specimens, interactive displays, multimedia, and detailed models.


Experience the wonders of the universe in the 75-foot planetarium, where immersive shows take you on a journey through space with different themes featured throughout the day. Wander through a lush four-story rainforest brimming with life, from vibrant birds to exotic reptiles and amphibians.


In the Naturalist Center, explore hundreds of specimens and engage in hands-on activities designed for all ages. Venture outside to enjoy stunning views from the 2.5-acre living roof, or ignite your child’s curiosity in Wander Woods, an outdoor space dedicated to nature play and exploration.

Adult admission is priced at a standard rate, with discounted tickets available for seniors, students, and children. Online bookings often include time-slot reservations and occasional promotional offers.
The entire facility is wheelchair accessible with elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms throughout. Assistive listening devices and adaptive programs are available upon request.
Watch your step on wet surfaces in the rainforest and aquarium areas.
Keep hands off exhibits and animals to ensure safety for both visitors and wildlife.
Supervise children closely, especially near water displays and open floor areas.
Respect all signage and barriers designed to protect delicate ecosystems and animals. Engage with educators and volunteers—they’re passionate about sharing science stories. Participate in interactive exhibits thoughtfully to maintain a positive environment for all visitors.
Use a camera with good low-light performance for the aquarium and rainforest exhibits.
Avoid flash photography to protect sensitive animals and enhance your experience.
Capture the sweeping architecture of the living roof and the planetarium’s dome from the main atrium.
Café and seating areas, gift shop, wheelchair accessibility, lockers, audio guides, family restrooms, free Wi-Fi

General Questions

Simply select your preferred date, choose the ticket type and quantity, then click "Add to Cart". Complete the secure checkout to receive your e-tickets instantly via email.
Yes, all payments on HolidaySG are processed through SSL-encrypted, PCI-compliant payment gateways. We support major credit/debit cards and other secure payment methods.
Most bookings are instantly confirmed. You will receive your e-tickets via email within minutes of completing your purchase.
Cancellation and modification policies vary by activity. Please check the specific cancellation policy listed under each ticket option before booking.
In most cases, you can show your e-ticket directly from your mobile phone at the venue. Some activities may require a printed voucher — this will be clearly stated in your confirmation email.
If an activity is cancelled by the operator due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, you will typically receive a full refund or be offered an alternative date.
Yes, you can select multiple tickets for your group. For large groups (10+ people), please contact our support team for special group rates.
No, the price you see is the price you pay. All taxes and service fees are included in the displayed price.
We recommend arriving at least 15-30 minutes before your scheduled time to allow for check-in and any security procedures.
Yes, you can purchase tickets as a gift or for other travellers. Simply enter the correct details during checkout.
All prices on HolidaySG are displayed in Singapore Dollars (SGD) unless otherwise indicated.
Yes, HolidaySG is an authorized booking partner working directly with attractions, tour operators, and experience providers across Asia.
Our customer support team is available daily (9 AM – 11 PM SGT) to help. You can reach us via email or chat, and we will work to resolve any issues as quickly as possible.
Some activities offer special pricing for students, seniors, and children. These will be shown as separate ticket types when available.
Tickets are generally valid only for the selected date. If you need to change your visit date, please contact our support team before the original date.
Refund policies depend on the specific activity and ticket type. Free cancellation options are clearly marked where available.
You can reach our support team daily (9 AM – 11 PM SGT) via email at support@holidaysg.com or through the live chat on our website.
No, you can book as a guest. However, creating an account lets you track your bookings, save favourites, and access exclusive deals.
We strive to offer the most competitive prices. If you find a lower price for the same activity on another platform, contact us and we will do our best to match it.
Yes, we often offer combo packages that bundle popular attractions together at a discounted rate. Check our promotions page for current deals.

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