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Morrison Planetarium: Journey Through the Cosmos

Embark on a cosmic journey at the Morrison Planetarium, where science and imagination meet within Golden Gate Park, offering an immersive experience for all ages.

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Located in Golden Gate Park, the Morrison Planetarium within the California Academy of Sciences, is one of the world's largest all-digital planetariums, offering immersive and educational experiences since 1952. Cutting-edge technology projects stunningly realistic images of the cosmos onto a 75-foot dome, captivating visitors of all ages.

A brief summary to Morrison Planetarium

  • Monday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive at the Academy early and reserve your planetarium show tickets immediately upon entry, as shows often sell out, especially during peak season.
  • Check the daily schedule for showtimes and descriptions to choose the best experience for your interests and age group.
  • Combine your planetarium visit with other Academy exhibits like the Steinhart Aquarium and Osher Rainforest for a full day of exploration.
  • Consider visiting during off-peak hours (weekdays or late afternoons) for a less crowded experience.
  • Take advantage of the Academy's sustainable transportation discount by walking, biking, or taking public transit.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From most points in San Francisco, the most convenient way to reach the Morrison Planetarium is via MUNI. Several bus lines and metro lines stop within a short walking distance of the California Academy of Sciences. The 44 O'Shaughnessy bus stops directly in front of the Academy on Music Concourse Drive. Alternatively, the 5 Fulton bus stops at Fulton St. and 8th Ave., a 5-minute walk to the Academy. A single ride on MUNI costs $2.75.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to Golden Gate Park and follow signs for the California Academy of Sciences. Limited street parking is available throughout the park, but it can be challenging to find a spot, especially on weekends and holidays. The Music Concourse Garage offers underground parking adjacent to the Academy, accessible from both Fulton Street/10th Avenue and Music Concourse Drive/MLK Drive. Parking at the Music Concourse Garage costs $5.25 per hour on weekdays and $6.25 per hour on weekends. Evening flat rate (after 5:30 PM) is $6.25.

  • Golden Gate Park Shuttle

    The free Golden Gate Park Shuttle provides access to the Academy and the eastern half of Golden Gate Park, with stops along JFK Dr. and Music Concourse Dr., just steps away from the main entrance. The shuttle operates seven days a week: Monday-Friday from 12 PM to 6 PM and Saturday, Sunday, & Holidays from 9 AM to 6 PM. This is a convenient and cost-effective option, especially on weekends when parking is limited.

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Discover more about Morrison Planetarium

The Morrison Planetarium, a jewel within the California Academy of Sciences, offers an unparalleled journey through the cosmos. Located in the heart of Golden Gate Park, this state-of-the-art planetarium is one of the largest all-digital domes in the world, providing visitors with an immersive and awe-inspiring experience. Stepping inside the Morrison Planetarium is like stepping into another world. The 75-foot dome surrounds you, creating a sense of being suspended in space. Cutting-edge technology projects breathtaking images of stars, planets, galaxies, and nebulae, all based on the latest scientific data. The planetarium's shows are not just visually stunning; they are also educational, providing insights into the workings of the universe and the latest discoveries in astronomy and astrophysics. The planetarium's history is as fascinating as the cosmos it portrays. Originally opened in 1952, the Morrison Planetarium was the first major planetarium projector ever built in the United States. It quickly became a beloved institution, captivating generations of visitors with its realistic simulations of the night sky. In 2008, the planetarium underwent a major renovation, transforming it into an all-digital dome with state-of-the-art projection capabilities. This upgrade allowed the planetarium to showcase even more detailed and immersive visualizations of the universe, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in planetarium technology. Beyond the captivating shows, the Morrison Planetarium is an integral part of the California Academy of Sciences, which itself is a world-class institution. The Academy houses an aquarium, a natural history museum, and a rainforest all under one roof, making it a one-stop destination for science and nature lovers.

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