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Thursday, February 12, 2026
55 Music Concourse Dr, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, CA 94118
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California Academy History: Timeline and Milestones

Discover key milestones in the Academy’s history — from early collections to the modern science campus and beloved artifacts.

1/27/2026
14 min read
Historic specimen of the oldest fish recorded at the Academy

Historic Aquarium — 1938

A quick timeline through the Academy’s milestones — collections, community, and a living‑roof era.


Highlights

  • Early collections and public education mission.
  • The rise of Steinhart Aquarium and natural history.
  • Modern rebuild with sustainability at the core.

Tip: Historic photo panels add human stories behind the science.


Bottom Line

Across time, the Academy’s identity holds: science, education, public wonder.

About the Author

SF Museum Expert

SF Museum Expert

I put this guide together to make your Academy visit simple, enriching, and full of practical tips for families, friends, and curious minds alike.

Tags

History
Timeline
Collections
San Francisco
Milestones

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