California Academy of Sciences Guide: Tickets, Hours, Best Exhibits & Tips

The California Academy of Sciences is San Francisco’s all‑in‑one science campus — an aquarium, rainforest, planetarium, and natural history museum stitched together under a living roof. It’s equal parts family favorite, date‑night venue, and research institution.

At a Glance

• Where: Golden Gate Park (Music Concourse, across from de Young).
• Time needed: 3–5 hours for highlights; a full day if you linger.
• Core exhibits: Steinhart Aquarium, Osher Rainforest, Morrison Planetarium, Living Roof.
• Busy times: Weekends/holidays; weekday mornings are calmer.

Tip: Reserve your planetarium show time at arrival — free tickets go fast.

Tickets, Passes & Hours

• NightLife (21+): Thursdays after hours with music and themed science.
• Hours vary seasonally — confirm the day’s schedule on entry boards.

Getting There (Transit Wins)

• Muni N‑Judah → Irving St; short walk into the park.
• Buses to Golden Gate Park; ride‑share drop at Music Concourse.
• Parking is limited; consider nearby garages or transit.

Map & Orientation

• Enter at the plaza → reserve planetarium → choose: Rainforest first (less crowded) or Aquarium loop.
• Elevators and ramps connect all floors; roof access is weather‑dependent.

Highlights: Don’t Miss

1. Steinhart Aquarium — tunnel tanks, coral reef, bioluminescence.
2. Osher Rainforest — a 4‑story glass dome with free‑flight butterflies.
3. Morrison Planetarium — a 75‑foot immersive astronomy show.
4. Living Roof — native plants, skylights, and green engineering.
5. Natural History — T. rex and California habitat dioramas.

Two Ready‑Made Itineraries

Classic 4‑Hour Loop

• 0:00–0:20 → Entry, planetarium reservation.
• 0:20–1:20 → Rainforest dome (queue first).
• 1:20–2:10 → Aquarium loop + bioluminescence.
• 2:10–3:00 → Planetarium show.
• 3:00–3:40 → Living Roof walk.
• 3:40–4:00 → Natural history + shop.

Family‑Friendly (3 Hours)

• Rainforest → snack break → Aquarium.
• Planetarium if kids are comfy with dark spaces.
• Quiet time near specimen cabinets or outdoors in the plaza.

Deep Dives

Steinhart Aquarium

• Coral Reef tunnel: watch schooling patterns for full effect.
• Amazon flooded forest: seasonal levels, plant/fish interactions.

Osher Rainforest

• Microclimates across floors; pause to let glasses defog.
• Spot free‑flight butterflies near canopy platforms.

Morrison Planetarium

• Arrive early; middle rows balance perspective.
• Family shows earlier, advanced programs later.

Living Roof

• Skylight “bubbles” regulate daylight like lungs.
• Rolling contours echo park topography; watch for pollinators.

Accessibility & Comfort

• Elevators access all floors; staff manage Rainforest entry.
• Seating/rest areas dotted through galleries; ask for show accommodations.

Photo Guide

• Roof contours + skylights for geometry.
• Dome reflections; use higher ISO, steady stance.
• Aquarium: no flash; wait for clear swim paths.

FAQs

• Can I see everything in 2 hours? Possible, but you’ll rush — prioritize Rainforest + Planetarium.
• Is NightLife worth it? If you enjoy a social vibe with science, yes.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes

• Do: Reserve shows immediately; do Rainforest first.
• Don’t: Start in the shop or rely on parking.

Gallery

Bottom Line

Four experiences, one building — plan your show slots, start with the Rainforest, and save time for the roof.