The California Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park is one of San Francisco’s most popular attractions, with over a million curious visitors every year. Founded in 1853, the academy was totally rebuilt in 2008 and now comprises an aquarium, a planetarium and a natural history museum, alongside state-of-the-art facilities which have helped to maintain its reputation as one of the world’s most important research institutions in the field of life sciences.The Kimball Natural History Museum houses exhibits that chronicle the evolution of life on earth, from prehistoric times to the present day. Learn what makes an earthquake, take a virtual African safari, see animated skeletons of our ancestors, and watch the fascinating Foucault pendulum demonstrate the Earth’s rotation.The Morrison Planetarium, the largest all-digital planetarium in the world, displays the wonders of the universe in unique and astonishing detail. Special shows give you an astronaut’s view of our planet on an interstellar journey through space and time. At the Steinhart Aquarium you can experience the climate and creatures of the rainforest and see over 38,000 species from penguins to piranhas. The Northern California Coast Gallery replicates the fascinating marine world of the Pacific coastline, with tide-pool walkways and underwater windows to bring you as close as possible to the action without getting wet!You can wander at will around the exhibits, or take a behind-the-scenes guided tour – see the website for full details. There’s also a programme of special events, lectures and workshops which are popular with locals as well as visitors.The academy is open every day except Thanksgiving (fourth Thursday in November) and Christmas. There is on-site parking but spaces can be limited, especially at peak times, so use the excellent public transport options that serve the Golden Gate Park for a stress-free journey.
California Academy of Sciences
Visit California Academy of Sciences
Cruises & boat tours
See all 40 activitiesOpens in new tabGolden Gate Bay Cruise - Sail Around Alcatraz!
Tours & day trips
See all 443 activitiesOpens in new tabSan Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Tour
Attractions
See all 22 activitiesOpens in new tabGo City: San Francisco All-Inclusive Pass with 25+ Attractions
Wildlife & nature
See all 11 activitiesOpens in new tabGolden Gate Bay Cruise - Sail Around Alcatraz!
Private & custom tours
See all 158 activitiesOpens in new tabGoCar San Francisco Tour
Popular places to visit
De Young Museum
This much-loved museum houses a fascinating collection of American painting, African art and Asian textiles.
Japanese Tea Garden
This tranquil spot tucked away in Golden Gate Park has been offering oriental-style refreshment to frazzled metropolitans for over a century.
San Francisco Botanical Garden
Enjoy the beautiful sunsets and explore San Francisco Botanical Garden, a lovely green space in San Francisco. Discover the acclaimed theatre scene and shops in this vibrant area.
Conservatory of Flowers
Admire the incredible array of blooms on display, from insect-eating plants to elaborately shaped orchids, at this well-preserved Victorian-era conservatory.
Stow Lake
Go boating on Golden Gate Park’s largest lake. The placid body of water is the home of turtles, ducks and during winter, Canadian geese.
Kezar Stadium
Catch an event at Kezar Stadium during your trip to San Francisco. Discover the acclaimed theatre scene and shops in this walkable area.
Top Hotel Deals
Check availability on hotels close to California Academy of Sciences
- Holidays and getaways similar to California Academy of Sciences
- Hotels Near California Academy of Sciences, Golden Gate
- Hotels near other Attractions
- Hotels near Pier 39
- Hotels near Oracle Park
- Hotels near Golden Gate Bridge
- Hotels near San Francisco Bay
- Hotels near Golden Gate Park
- Hotels near Alcatraz Island
- Hotels near Presidio of San Francisco
- Hotels near Jack London Square
- Hotels near Muir Woods National Monument
- Hotels near Lombard Street
- Hotels near Ferry Building
- Hotels near San Francisco Zoo
- Hotels near Ghirardelli Square
- Hotels near San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
- Hotels near Palace of Fine Arts
- Hotels near Ocean Beach