Overview
The California Academy of Sciences is a renowned natural history museum and research institution in San Francisco, featuring an aquarium, planetarium, and a living rooftop garden. It is home to a wide range of exhibits, including a coral reef, penguin colony, and a rainforest dome.
It is one of the largest natural history museums in the world and a leading center for scientific research and education.
Location
Address
55 Music Concourse Drive, San Francisco, California
Neighborhood: Golden Gate Park
Coordinates
37.769800, -122.467300
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild
- • flowers
- • gardens
summer
hot
- • extended hours
autumn
cool
- • fall colors
winter
cold
- • holiday lights
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book ahead
- Bring ID
- Check weather
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate
- • stairs
Medical facilities: first aid available
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable shoes, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing
Booking Tips
- • 2 weeks
- • official website
- • 48 hours
- • available
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
California Academy of Sciences
Size: 50 MB
Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, Exhibit info
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe, Public areas
Charging Stations: Rest areas, Cafe
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: San Francisco International Airport
Distance: 25 km
Travel Time: 30 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Historic importance and educational value
Historical Significance: Important events and scientific discoveries have taken place here
Insider Tips
- Free entry early morning for members
- Best food at back entrance cafe
Local Recommendations
- • Try local cafe
- • Ask for guide John
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French, Mandarin
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Low angle
Result: Great shot
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
de Young Museum
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Art Museum
San Francisco Botanical Garden
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Botanical Garden
Stow Lake
Distance: 800m
Walking: 10 min
Type: Scenic Lake
Reviews
Based on 15,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book online"
- "Visit early for fewer crowds"
- "Don't miss the penguin exhibit"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
18
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
15,000
Adult Entry
$39.95