California Academy of Sciences: Where Science Comes to Life
Explore an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum all under one living roof at San Francisco's California Academy of Sciences.
The California Academy of Sciences, located in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park, is a world-renowned natural history museum, aquarium, planetarium, and research institution all under one living roof. Founded in 1853, it's the oldest scientific institution in the Western United States, offering immersive experiences for all ages.
A brief summary to California Academy of Sciences
- 55 Music Concourse Dr, San Francisco, Golden Gate Park, California, 94118, US
- +1415-379-8000
- Visit website
- Monday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 11 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
- Purchase tickets in advance online to save time and potentially money.
- Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, to avoid crowds and secure a spot for planetarium shows.
- Take advantage of the free Golden Gate Park Shuttle to reach the Academy.
- Visit on a Thursday night for NightLife (21+), offering music, cocktails, and a unique after-dark museum experience.
- Check the Academy's website for daily schedules of animal feedings, planetarium shows, and special events.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown San Francisco, the Muni system offers several convenient options. The 5 Fulton bus runs directly to the north entrance of Golden Gate Park at Fulton St./8th Ave., a short 5-minute walk to the Academy. Alternatively, take the N Judah Metro line to 9th Ave./Irving St., a 10-minute walk through the park to the Academy. A single Muni fare is around $3. Consider a CityPASS or Go City San Francisco Pass for discounts on multiple attractions and public transport.
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Walking
If you're already in Golden Gate Park, the Academy is easily accessible by foot. From the Japanese Tea Garden or the de Young Museum, follow the signs along the Music Concourse to the east. The Academy is located at 55 Music Concourse Drive. The walk is generally flat and takes about 10-15 minutes from nearby attractions.
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Ride Share/Taxi
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, as well as taxis, provide direct access to the Academy's entrance at 55 Music Concourse Drive. A ride from Union Square typically costs $22-$27 and takes approximately 10 minutes, depending on traffic. Note that traffic within Golden Gate Park can be heavy on weekends and holidays.
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Driving
If driving, enter Golden Gate Park via Fulton Street and 10th Avenue to the north, or Music Concourse Drive/MLK Drive from the south. Limited free street parking is available on MLK Drive, Nancy Pelosi Drive, and around Stow Lake, with 3-4 hour limits. The Music Concourse Garage offers convenient, secure underground parking for $5/hour on weekdays and $6/hour on weekends. The garage is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. Be aware that both street parking and the garage can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
Discover more about California Academy of Sciences
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sundial
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Alvord Lake Bridge
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501 Stanyan St
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California Historical Landmark 760: Laurel Hill Cemetery Site
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Unmissable attractions to see
Morrison Planetarium
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Shakespeare Garden
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de Young Museum
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50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr
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San Francisco Botanical Garden
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Stow Lake
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Essential places to dine
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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