California Academy of Sciences Tours and Activities

California Academy of Sciences showing interior views and rides
California Academy of Sciences featuring interior views and coral as well as a large group of people
California Academy of Sciences showing interior views
California Academy of Sciences featuring colourful reefs, marine life and interior views
California Academy of Sciences which includes interior views and signage


This vast scientific institution is one of the world’s largest natural history museums.

Founded in 1853, and completely rebuilt in 2008, the academy is a globally-recognised scientific institution, which now also contains the world’s first indoor rain forest, green rooftop and largest planetarium theatre. This attraction also has an aquarium and a natural history museum and is popular with visitors and locals alike.

Significant research into the human sciences takes place behind the doors of the academy. Global experts in botany, anthropology, ornithology, geology and an array of other disciplines work here.

Experience the indoor rainforest where you’ll find yourself surrounded by trees, birds, butterflies and the smells and sensations of a tropical paradise. Along the way, there are a few aquarium exhibits that contain exotic reptiles that normally roam the rainforest.

Take a seat (the best seats are in the middle of the theatre) in the Morrison Planetarium. Gaze upwards to the ceiling as the lights go out and the show begins. You’ll sense that you’re really flying through the clouds and up into space where you’ll get an accurate picture of what the universe really looks like.

Come back down to earth and head to the Kimball Natural History Museum to explore the evolution of life on earth from prehistoric times to the present day.

For a break from all the excitement and if the weather’s good, the rooftop garden is a good place to visit for some peace and quiet before you carry on exploring.

Next, take a behind-the-scenes tour around the aquarium and the academy where knowledgeable guides can help you make the most of your visit. Check the scheduled tour times on the academy’s website.If all of this the learning leaves you with an appetite, the cosmopolitan Academy Café or the Moss Room on site offer delicious dining options.

The California Academy of Sciences stands at the heart of the Golden Gate Park and is easily accessible by public transport, car, bike and shuttle services. Arrive early to avoid the ensuing crowds remembering that the car parks get full really quickly during weekends and holidays.

The academy is open daily except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

Tours & day trips

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History & culture

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Private & custom tours

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Adventure & outdoor

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Cruises & boat tours

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Popular places to visit


Top California Academy of Sciences Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Stanyan Park Hotel

Stanyan Park Hotel

3 out of 5
750 Stanyan Street, San Francisco, CA
Stanyan Park Hotel
Absolutely Private President's Suite, Computer, Wi-Fi, Laundry, Pub. Parking

Absolutely Private President's Suite, Computer, Wi-Fi, Laundry, Pub. Parking

San Francisco
Absolutely Private President's Suite, Computer, Wi-Fi, Laundry, Pub. Parking
Sunset Edwardian Bed and Breakfast at Golden Gate Park

Sunset Edwardian Bed and Breakfast at Golden Gate Park

2 out of 5
1471 18th Ave, San Francisco, CA
Sunset Edwardian Bed and Breakfast at Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park Escape | 4BR + Garage + Metro

Golden Gate Park Escape | 4BR + Garage + Metro

San Francisco
Golden Gate Park Escape | 4BR + Garage + Metro
Quiet Garden Apt., geographic center of The City

Quiet Garden Apt., geographic center of The City

San Francisco
Quiet Garden Apt., geographic center of The City
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG

3.5 out of 5
1500 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
BRAND NEW - ENTIRE FLOOR w/ OCEAN Beach View and PARKING!

BRAND NEW - ENTIRE FLOOR w/ OCEAN Beach View and PARKING!

San Francisco
BRAND NEW - ENTIRE FLOOR w/ OCEAN Beach View and PARKING!
Hilton San Francisco Financial District

Hilton San Francisco Financial District

4 out of 5
750 Kearny St, San Francisco, CA
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
Cozy Sunset suite

Cozy Sunset suite

San Francisco
Cozy Sunset suite
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.