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California Academy of Sciences

Tourist attraction Aquarium Science museum Research institute Planetarium

Natural history museum with an aquarium, planetarium & scientists conducting a variety of research. People often mention kids, aquarium, time, great, visit, exhibits, planetarium, museum, Great, experience,


Address

55 Music Concourse Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118

Website

www.calacademy.org

Contact

(415) 379-8000

Price rating

$$$ $

Rating on Google Maps

4.60 (4.9K reviews)

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Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: kids (30) aquarium (29) time (28) great (27) visit (25) exhibits (24) planetarium (18) museum (18) Great (18) experience (17)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Rachel T. 2 years ago on Google
    General admission is about 30-35 bucks if you have student ID and other applicable discounts. I think the price is fair for what they offer. We bought the VIP tour with private access to the Living Roof to actually see the animal bones that were in the process of being “cleaned” by other little creatures. We got to see collected specimens (huge collection!). I didn’t know about ichthyology until then so it was great if you are interested in science or fish. We didn’t take much advantage of the VIP access as they came with great benefits such as discounts at the restaurant and souvenir stores I believe, but skip-the-line and entrances to the GEM vault or other collections were worth it. And it’s only like $25 per person for the VIP tour. However, I have to be honest that I did expect a bit more out of the VIP tour, and for general admissions: I do wish the planetarium’s image quality to be a bit better, but that’s okay. We’ll come back sometimes when they have new stuffs.
    23 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ivan M. 1 month ago on Google • 520 reviews New
    A great place to explore biodiversity. The aquarium has a unique collection and its underwater displays are amazing. The butterfly dome is filled with interesting species as well. The habitat is humid and well maintained. Watching the white Alligator move is a must. Overall the building is well organized and filled with interesting fun facts.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kirti P. 2 years ago on Google
    Wow! Just wow! No words to describe the museum. I was awestruck the first time I went inside. Everything was beautiful and amazing. I just didn't want to leave that place. I felt like a kid again, seeing the penguins, the live aquarium, the sharks exhibit (no real sharks though, but you can see their teeth and all), albino crocodile, the rainforest(loved this one), natural history museum and many more. You have a lot to do at this place. And people of all ages can enjoy here. Seriously, hear me out, if you come to San Francisco, do visit this place, you don't wanna miss this one.
    13 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Charlie 4 months ago on Google • 322 reviews
    The California Academy of Sciences is a captivating destination seamlessly integrated into the heart of San Francisco's Golden Gate Park. Marked on the map, this multifaceted institution combines education and awe-inspiring experiences within its innovative structure. As you navigate through the living roof, you'll discover an aquarium teeming with marine life, a planetarium showcasing celestial wonders, and a natural history museum unveiling the complexities of our world.Highlighted on the map is the academy's commitment to sustainability, as the living roof itself serves as a green oasis. Engage with interactive exhibits that bring the ocean's depths to life, explore the cosmos in the planetarium, and delve into diverse ecosystems—all within the same venue. The California Academy of Sciences, marked on the map as a hub of scientific exploration, guarantees an enriching and immersive journey for visitors of all ages. It stands as a must-visit location for those on the map seeking a profound connection with the wonders of the natural world.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Casey S. 1 month ago on Google • 368 reviews New
    Great place to explore and for kids to learn. there were pull out drawers for interesting facts, an aquarium, outdoor roof, and so much more. I really liked the albino alligator! We went in February on a holiday weekend. It wasn't too bad but we still had to wait in line to buy tickets and some activities in the academy were full and we could not access it. I would highly recommend buying tickets in advance and going earlier in the day. We went the last couple hours of the day so mind when you go during the day. We went at 2 PM and had to wait in line to buy tickets into the academy. It was 50 dollars per adult and it was cheaper for kids. Then you also had to pay for parking so it felt like a money pit. But I would do it again with my kiddos, I would open more budget wise when going. I didn't put too many pictures because being there is better than looking at the pictures.

  • 5/5 missy 1 year ago on Google
    my absolute favorite museum i have ever been to. the butterfly exhibit was extraordinary and i loved being able to experience the planetarium show. the jellyfish were absolutely mesmerizing and i appreciated the diversity in sea life. the aquarium was great and i loved seeing the alligator. great for kids and adults. plenty to see, do, and learn.
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gisela Q. 1 month ago on Google • 297 reviews New
    We went there for the Thursday Night event to celebrate Lunar New Year. It was a wonderful experience. For my husband, it was the first time at all, for me the first time at night. What a great idea to open the doors to music, drinks an fun - if we weren't married, we'd take dates to here!

  • 5/5 astaquenopueda 2 years ago on Google
    What an amazing place, by far one of the highlights of our trip to San Francisco. The Rain Forest exhibit was amazing. Butterflies were flying all around us and there were terrariums and aquariums filled with amazing reptiles and fish. The elevator takes you down to some of the most beautiful aquariums I have ever seen. The kids had such a great time here and it was definitely their favorite part of the trip.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rockerz R. 3 years ago on Google
    California Academy of Science Museum is housed inside Golden Gate Park. A must visit place for children. Everything here is beautifully made and explained. Wonderful experience. There are several amazing exhibits to visit once you are inside the Museum like the African Penguin Colony, Osher Rainforest, The Swamp, California Coast, Philippine Coral Reef, and Steinhart Aquarium. This place is very entertaining, informational, family friendly, and affordable. There is a lot to learn here. You could spend the entire day exploring. Worth a visit to know a lot about Mother Nature.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 teresita p. 2 months ago on Google • 190 reviews New
    Very beautiful place with lots to do! We took our 1 year old and we all enjoyed it. They have an aquarium, rainforest, earthquake simulator, fossils, playground, cafe, nursing room, and much more. Lots of learning everywhere and beautiful place overall. Definitely recommend for all ages.

  • 5/5 Jiseob K. 2 months ago on Google • 48 reviews New
    This was undoubtedly a highlight of my trip to SF! The museum's stunning architecture, fantastic exhibits, interactive displays, unique programs, and intriguing stories completely captivated me. What I particularly loved was the lively atmosphere created by the many children enjoying the exhibits, adding a dynamic vibe to the museum. My time spent here was incredibly valuable. Each science museum has its own unique character, which is why it's worth visiting different ones in various cities. Even if you're not typically a museum-goer, I highly recommend giving this place a try. You might just be pleasantly surprised!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Chuck H. 1 month ago on Google • 158 reviews New
    First-time visitor and I was taken back by the beauty of this place. As you can see by the pictures I've posted, it has so many activities and events. The rainforest walk through is amazing. You are able to interact with many kinds of butterflies, birds, and fish from the Amazon. Just amazing and definitely a must do.

  • 5/5 Giacomo F. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) (English below) Really interesting museum, it offers a great variety of attractions, all related to the world of natural sciences, ranging from a magnificent aquarium, to a biosphere with a tropical microclimate to an earthquake simulator. Numerous rare animal species can be admired. The roof-top, designed by Renzo Piano, is also recommended, as is the rest of the building, from which you can admire the square below. Really interesting museum, it offers a great variety of attractions, all related to the world of natural sciences, ranging from a magnificent aquarium, a biosphere with a tropical microclimate to an earthquake simulator. Numerous rare animal species can be admired. The "green" roof-top, designed by Renzo Piano, is also recommended, from which you can admire the square below. (Original) (English below) Museo veramente interessante, offre una grande varietà di attrazioni, tutte riferite al mondo delle scienze naturali, spaziando da un magnifico acquario, a una biosfera con microclima tropicale a un simulatore di terremoti. Si possono ammirare numerosissime specie animali rare. Consigliato anche il roof-top, disegnato da Renzo Piano, come d'altronde il resto dell'edificio, dal quale di può ammirare la piazza sottostante. Really interesting museum, it offers a great variety of attractions, all related to the world of natural sciences, ranging from a magnificent aquarium, a biosphere with a tropical microclimate to an earthquake simulator. Numerous rare animal species can be admired. The "green" roof-top, designed by Renzo Piano, is also recommended, from which you can admire the square below.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Emily G. 2 years ago on Google
    This was a fun aquarium/science center that focused more on biology than other areas like energy or spaces. We went in their first ticketed group at 9:30am and it felt like we had the aquarium to ourselves. 90 minutes later it felt very busy in the museum so I recommend getting there early.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Stannya 1 year ago on Google
    Great place to go to with family as there are lots of things to see. Huge aquarium as well as other exhibits. Entry to planetarium shows is free (included in the ticket price) and is a highlight. The food is really great too! On a weekday it wasn’t too busy.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jules Gene M. 1 year ago on Google
    The California Academy of Sciences will forever be one of my favourite places that I've visited in California. It's such a lovely place with a very wide variety of exhibits. The architecture of the building is stunning from the inside and out. You will most certainly enjoy the rainforest experience when visiting here, it has an amazing sloping catwalk that spirals around with 360° views of a indoor rainforest habitat that is home to many different species. 10/10 experience visiting here. A great place to bring your children.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Family A. 3 years ago on Google
    Not safe. Not enough COVID precautions. We had tickets this weekend. I cannot imagine what the place is like at full capacity. There were 4, yes 4 hand sanitizer stations for the entire museum! Absolutely no control, not a single person was respectful of any social distancing and there were little to no staff that monitored anything. At the 3 points of staff interaction, they were good. I am shocked by the relaxed attitude from a science museum. Exhibits were decent.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Felix O. 3 years ago on Google
    There is a lot to learn here. You could spend the entire day exploring. The view at the aquarium was really exciting. The exhibitions are cool. I enjoyed the feeding of the African Penguins and also the Planetarium show. Get the map handy so you don't miss any area. Plan well to know the exhibitions to attend.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brad P. 3 years ago on Google
    Really great Aquarium. Awesome staff. Great Price. I lost my phone in an Uber. The staff went out of their way incredibly to help us. We got it back. Incredible. Thanks for everything so much.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Christian L. 2 years ago on Google
    The California Academy of Sciences was a blast to visit. Pro tip, try to get your tickets in advance, as they increase in price the closer to your admission date gets. They also have a student discount available for college students. The entire museum was huge, and it was a great time exploring all of the little nooks of displays.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Hiranmayi U. 2 years ago on Google
    This place has soo much to offer! The process to enter was clean- go online and book the slot that works best for you. Its about $45 per head for 1 and half hour. I was told they are all rotating exhibits - so each time you go might be different. There was a live penguin exhibit , fog entrance and rainforest which was so beautifully maintained, shark exhibit- you’ll definitely find something that’s fascinate you! It’s perfect for all age groups!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 EmmaV 1 year ago on Google
    This great place inside the Golden Gate Park was about a 40 minutes bus ride from the Fisherman’s Wharf (North Point St and Jones St) to Park Presidio Blvd and Fulton St. and a 10 minute walk from the bus stop. Although the Planetarium was closed during our visit, there were so many exhibits to see. Be prepared to walk and therefore wear comfortable shoes. The African penguins, the large aquarium and the rain forest dome teeming with butterflies and three tropical birds were amazing. The albino alligator and three huge turtles were probably over fed since they never moved while we were there. It’s a place worth to visit.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Melissa R. 5 months ago on Google
    This place is so much fun. Great exhibits. Make sure you sit all the way at the top in the planetarium. The cafe food is ridiculously overpriced and not very good so bring your own drinks and snacks. Save a few dollars by purchasing tickets in advance and get there when they open.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shawn L. 3 years ago on Google
    Interesting place that has an aquarium, a rainforest, a planetarium, and a section to learn about earthquakes. Great activity for families.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Sonia B. 3 years ago on Google
    Please if your are specting to have lunch, snacks, drinks at the academy, please bring your own, academy cafe has terrible and ridiculously expensive food, please bring your own drinks food and snacks.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Luna A. 3 years ago on Google
    I and my friends enjoyed it but the gift shop was pretty expensive!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Leti G. 3 years ago on Google
    Love it but lacks a place to get decent snacks and drinks. Nothing suitable for young kids.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Greg P. 3 years ago on Google
    We were excited to return for the first time in 8 months. Unfortunately, with Covid19 raging across the country, they have decided to pack everyone in like sardines. We felt so uncomfortable in the aquarium exhibit. You would think that social distancing is even remotely enforced. It was not. With the amount of people they let in, many of whom had masks not covering their noses, I wouldn't be surprised if they end up being a virus spreading hot spot this winter.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Chris M. 3 years ago on Google
    A great place for families to see tropical fish without getting wet. Our 3 year old spent an hour looking at the fish. There are bits the kids climb into and look closer at the fish - ours really enjoyed this. The touching area was closed due to COVID.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sarah N. 2 years ago on Google
    I always feel so lucky to live In a city where a place like this exists. Whether you're into science or not, you'll have a great time here - from the earthquake simulator to the planetarium and aquarium, there's something for everyone. Grown ups should make sure to stop by Thursday Nightlife events as well!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Justin K. 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing place with reasonable ticket price. The environment and atmosphere are active and academical. Remember to hold you 3-shot Vaccination card and ID (12 year old up) on the entrance.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Ilana Y. 1 year ago on Google
    Very interesting museum to visit if you don't mind the long entry protocols, having to show a proof of vaccination, masking up and paying $45 per ticket. Buying tickets in advance seems to offer a small discount, but the website didn't work on my android phone... Overall, it's worth a visit, the museum is very impressive and houses a collection that would typically be found in multiple different museums/ aquariums. I enjoyed the rainforest dome (butterflies!!) and the planetarium the most. The planetarium had 3 different shows throughout the day, and you have to sign up ahead of time by scanning a barcode that's located by the entrance. It took multiple attempts as the sign up page was once again returning errors, but I worked it out by opening each link in a new tab. I do hope that museum staff helps out less technologically advanced visitors. It's possible to spend a whole day here, but I would recommend bringing your own food. The cafeteria was overpriced and served it's sandwiches on stale old bread, which apparently was locally sourced and sustainable, just not very fresh or tasty. All in all, a fun visit, and if you're short on time in San Francisco, I would definitely recommend this over the Exploratorium.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Seth B. 5 months ago on Google
    Very cool place. So much to see. Cool interactive exhibits. Food was expensive, but was pretty good. Went on a weekday and the crowds were minimal. The planetarium show is amazing, on busy days you need a reservation for it.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Kristine P. 3 years ago on Google
    I wish I came here earlier to get the full advantage of the experience. I arrived at 3:30pm and paid about 30 per person. We went through everything pretty quick. The indoor rainforest was the best thing exhibit there in my opinion and warm. It was an experience since the last time I went was back in elementary school! I would probably come back when I have a kid! =)

  • 4/5 Daisy K. 3 years ago on Google
    There is a lot to see here so you can spend the whole day!! Very clean and lots of room. We went on a Monday and it was moderately busy. Took our two sons (6 and 4) and they loved running around and seeing all of the exhibits. Definitely some hands on exhibits as well as plenty of other educational and interesting exhibits. Indoor rainforest was cool! The aquarium was amazing! Worth making part of your vacation while in SF.

  • 4/5 Santiago N. 3 years ago on Google
    Fun museum but definitely better for kids. At $35 for an adult, might be better to swing by on a free day. The exhibits are interesting but don't really feel well developed in terms of content and what's on display. With the Rainforest currently closed and the Planetarium shows being filled quickly, it feels sparse in terms of exhibits. Would recommend coming earlier to try and see as many Planetarium shows as they are a redeeming factor.

  • 4/5 Anne A. 3 years ago on Google
    It worth to get the membership if you plan to go more than once. They let us purchase the regular tickets and apply that to the membership if we decide to join on the same day. We decided to join since the kids love it. The place isnt that big but it is fairly enjoyable.

  • 5/5 Vanessa S. 3 years ago on Google
    Excellent place for kids. We spend all day here and have the pass to visit frequently during summer holidays. So many exhibits and we learn something new every time we visit.

  • 4/5 Dennis M. 3 years ago on Google
    California Academy of Sciences is one of my favorite museums housing contemporary art in San Francisco,CA. The exterior facade itself, boasts modern architecture worthy of a black and white, or sephia tone snapshot. So be sure to capture your perspective from the outside looking in, and the inside, looking out.

  • 5/5 NOAH R. 3 years ago on Google
    I felt very comfortable being there, kind of like a belonging. I enjoyed learning about our ancestors and also learning about the earth and its regions. It's a scientists dream place to work if you really enjoy science. Even though it was just a museum, it spread a lot of encouragement for me to become a scientist since I enjoy finding answers to my questions about different organisms and learning their anatomies and lifestyles. 11/10 would go back again.

  • 4/5 Caitlin H. 3 years ago on Google
    Super cool! We spent about an hour here and were able to see all of the exhibits.

  • 3/5 Dannie S. 3 years ago on Google
    Had an awesome day here. Please take the children and enjoy yourself. I loved the insect room, the train ride and the Rain forest. Just take your time, walk and enjoy.

  • 4/5 laura e. 3 years ago on Google
    Is it open now?? Or is it still closed?

  • 5/5 Nailea P. 3 years ago on Google
    Love this place ! All of the 4th grade teachers took the students there and it was amazing ! I want to go there again but my family does not want to.

  • 5/5 Camas S. 3 years ago on Google
    Very very interesting things gathering here .

  • 5/5 Fredrick M. 3 years ago on Google
    A perfect place to spend time with family. Very clean inside and many activities available also!

  • 3/5 Rob G. 3 years ago on Google
    I liked this place better when I was a kid. When they did the remodel a while back I wasn't too pleased with the changes. The aquarium is mediocre in comparison to the Monterey Bay aquarium.

  • 5/5 Dismai N. 3 years ago on Google
    Went there a few years ago with my two kids. There was so much to explore! We didn't have time to see all of it. The kids loved it, and my wife and I loved it.

  • 5/5 Mike B. 3 years ago on Google
    This place is my daughters favorite part of SF. The Cal Academy doesn't get old. The staff are friendly and engaging. Sometimes we just walk by an exhibit are pulled in to a demonstration or explanation where we are learning. Lunch outside is a plus. Will be coming back time and again.

  • 5/5 Carl P. 3 years ago on Google
    Our Kids absolutely loved this place when we visited a few years ago. One of the kids favorite spots in San Fran

  • 5/5 Regis V. 3 years ago on Google
    Perfect for adults and kids

  • 4/5 Elizabeth H. 3 years ago on Google
    The rainforest was cool.

  • 5/5 Alberto Araujo J. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place to take the family. Staff are polite, prices for merch aren't breaking your wallet, you can visit every area within 3 hours or really enjoy your visit all day long. If you are going book about a week ahead. Due to Covid tickets are limited and you have to book the entry time in advance. If you plan on going multiple times with your family I recomend the family plus 👍🏾

  • 5/5 Haarlem R. 3 years ago on Google
    Love the living roof and the aquarium

  • 1/5 Geri O. 3 years ago on Google
    I saw rats running on the floor in the kitchen.

  • 5/5 Hayden M. 3 years ago on Google
    It was a perfect place back before, don't really know how they're dealing with covid.

  • 5/5 SEÇİL A. C. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) It is a must-go and must-see place. I liked it more than I expected (Original) Mutlaka gidilmesi ve görülmesi gereken bir yer. Umduğumdan daha fazla beğendim

  • 5/5 Ramya R. 3 years ago on Google
    Not much crowded for a Halloween Sunday. Properly organized. No panic about the pandemic. Everyone is contributing well to have a safe experience

  • 5/5 Luis J. 3 years ago on Google
    Really kool spot very educational.

  • 5/5 Lauren S. 3 years ago on Google
    Always a fun and educational experience! Staff does their best to ensure COVID safety measures. Make sure to make a reservation for the rainforest before you go!!

  • 5/5 Carol K. 3 years ago on Google
    Infotainment for the whole family.

  • 5/5 Rick D. 3 years ago on Google
    Great exhibits and the best planetarium around!

  • 5/5 Cassandra R. 3 years ago on Google
    Love this place.

  • 5/5 Oscar M. 3 years ago on Google
    Very nice place for family

  • 5/5 Blake E. 3 years ago on Google
    I been going to California academy of science since I was a little kid. Now I take my daughter there once in a while and we always have the greatest time. It's a perfect place to bring the kids plus it brings back so many memories. I got to give it all 5⭐'s. After you can walk around the park. So many things you can at this location. If your new or just visiting San Francisco this is a place I would recommend.

  • 5/5 Sean M. 3 years ago on Google
    Booking was full but after calling on the telephone, staff were nice enough to put us on a waiting list in case attendees left prematurely. We received a call and moseyed on down. A great experience in the heart of Townsville. Friendly and knowledgeable people and fish/molluscs/reptiles etc. very welcoming. One reviewer said (and I am paraphrasing here): “greatest way to see the barrier reef without getting wet” This is extremely accurate. Five stars.

  • 4/5 Kelvin G. 3 years ago on Google
    My kids loved the aquarium. Lots of great exhibits and information. A few things weren't open due to covid restrictions but still a great visit overall.

  • 5/5 Bee P. 3 years ago on Google
    Awesome! We went for fun and as a homeschooling experience. The education resources as well the education officer on site were amazing! We learnt so Loch and had so much fun. Highly recommend for all families!

  • 4/5 Morgan F. 3 years ago on Google
    Not too bad. Fairly decent aquarium, however there is no gift shop at the moment.

  • 4/5 The Jurs A. 3 years ago on Google
    Very neat aquarium. Good exhibits. Excellent way to let a few hours pass as you squish your face against the glass looking at all the ocean pretties

  • 4/5 Beau D. 3 years ago on Google
    Always go here every few years. Nice to see they keep updating fixtures and exhibits. I can see potential for a more interactive Cafe. Would like to see more on coral bleaching as an interactive demo.

  • 4/5 Lisa I. 3 years ago on Google
    Considering its 1987 vintage, this is a great aquarium. We visited sans children and enjoyed viewing the marine creatures. We appreciate it when places are good for everyone. Look forward to the new iteration.

  • 4/5 Annette M. 3 years ago on Google
    Absolutely loved our 2-hour visit today. Having previously snorkelled on the Barrier Reef many times, it was great to see so many familiar creatures up close and without getting wet. Some of the creatures were new to us too which added to our interest. Due to COVID restrictions, guided tours are not being run at present but there were very helpful and knowledgeable staff available to answer any questions we had. Highly recommend a visit here.

  • 4/5 Florian R. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) I liked it. The price-performance ratio is right here. For the first time we heard an exciting lecture about jellyfish. The second time (7 years later) I was only there for a short time, somehow the second time it wasn't exactly exciting. (Original) Mir hat es gut gefallen. Das Preis-Leistungsverhältnis stimmt hier. Wir haben das erste Mal einen spannenden Vortrag über Quallen gehört. Das zweite Mal (7 Jahre später) war ich nur kurz drin, irgendwie wars das zweite Mal nicht mehr gleich spannend.

  • 5/5 Metui T. 3 years ago on Google
    Amazing for kids and adults

  • 3/5 Robert S. 3 years ago on Google
    A bit tired looking. Look forward to seeing it again when the renovations are done.

  • 5/5 Alixander P. 3 years ago on Google
    Great for kids and very informative

  • 5/5 Tegan-Lee S. 3 years ago on Google
    If you are a member, definitely opt for the members only sessions. A lot less people.

  • 5/5 Kathy S. 3 years ago on Google
    👍

  • 5/5 Tyron K. 3 years ago on Google
    Love it. So tranquil. Great for the kids. Must do.

  • 5/5 Sue B. 3 years ago on Google
    Awesome for all ages.

  • 4/5 2918 I. 3 years ago on Google
    Great for families with young children.

  • 3/5 Priti M. 3 years ago on Google
    Cairns have a larger Aquarium

  • 3/5 Wei Hao T. 3 years ago on Google
    Visited few weeks before the closure for reno. Definitely needed a long overdue reno. It's very well kept given its age. Look forward to visit again after the reno, hopefully with a better tank.

  • 3/5 daferrett 3 years ago on Google
    Best to wait until after the renovations

  • 5/5 Michael K. 3 years ago on Google
    Plenty of different types of fish on display. Pretty well orgsnised

  • 5/5 Kartikeya Singh C. 3 years ago on Google
    Good value for money. Good for non swimmers who want to experience the barrier reef without getting wet

  • 3/5 Simon T. 3 years ago on Google
    Great with the kids. Was a little underwhelmed, possibly was expecting more larger sharks.

  • 3/5 邢天一 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) so so (Original) 一般般吧

  • 2/5 Paul N. 3 years ago on Google
    At the presebt time it appears rundown. However, there were signs suggesting a refebishmemt is scheduled for 2012. Covid has resulted in the educational program being suspended.

  • 4/5 Peter M. 3 years ago on Google
    Under renovation and upgrade but great displays and a wealth of information on the Great Barrier Reef.

  • 2/5 Kirsty H. 3 years ago on Google
    Was OK no tours a let down

  • 4/5 Jakim M. 3 years ago on Google
    Staff are very friendly and the exhibits are beautiful. Just a bit small than I expected.

  • 5/5 Bernard L. 3 years ago on Google
    Reef HQ is due to undergo development shortly so you will find a lit less fish than normal. Still woth a visit because of the Coral.

  • 5/5 Craig G. 3 years ago on Google
    Great family attraction.

  • 5/5 Peter S. 3 years ago on Google
    Deadly Stone fish on reef.

  • 5/5 Jonathan S. 3 years ago on Google
    Kara-Mae was very knowledgeable and friendly made the trip worth it!

  • 5/5 Lynette B. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place to take the kids

  • 4/5 Kerrie L. 3 years ago on Google
    Great information

  • 4/5 Lynda H. 3 years ago on Google
    Covid stopped all the talks and tour options but it was still a wonderful experience to visit and see all the fish and coral

  • 4/5 Kevin C. 3 years ago on Google
    Was a good few hours but couldn't say any longer

  • 3/5 Toby B. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice place to visit with the kids shame the staff could be a bit more active with the kids questions

  • 4/5 Carol G. 3 years ago on Google
    We enjoyed our self guided tour of the aquarium.

  • 5/5 Brodie M. 3 years ago on Google
    Clean and we'll maintained. All the fish and other animals look happy and healthy. Friendly and helpful staff

  • 5/5 Timmy R. 3 years ago on Google
    Lovely coral display, great morning out with the kids.

  • 3/5 Jeremy R. 3 years ago on Google
    Its was ok, our Daughter loved it.. although it was in much better shape when I was younger...and better activities...Thanks COVID19

  • 5/5 Taylor-Ashton W. 3 years ago on Google
    Very informative and well kept. The displays are beautiful and we had a great little day out looking at all of the fish and corals. In some places it seems a little out dated but that doesn't take away from the experience.

  • 5/5 Victor C. 2 years ago on Google
    This place is amazing! Highly recommended for all ages. Great displays, both educational and fun. The rainforest is awesome, so many butterflies! The aquarium is just as good, not too mention the Albino Croc Decent food as well.

  • 5/5 Carlos K. 1 year ago on Google
    One of the coolest science museums we've been to. Many interesting exhibits that kept the our tweens entertained the entire day. The planetarium is superb, currently presenting the Living Worlds movie. Food is, not surprisingly, a bit expensive but it's of good quality, with a nice variety of choices.

  • 5/5 RGS_ 1 year ago on Google
    A wonderful experience that made me feel connected with nature. The Living Worlds show at the Planetarium was a surreal, immersive experience. The volunteers were amazing people & educators, especially for the youth. I went on a Monday and there was not much waiting.

  • 5/5 Jennifer S. 1 year ago on Google
    We always have a good time at the academy! There's alot to see and experience, which means you could actually spend a day or two trying to see it all. We love the rainforest and aquarium in particular. The only bummer right now is even though they require proof of vaccination to enter you still need to keep a mask on. The mandate has been lifted and most places aren't requiring masks anymore so it seems a little overly cautious.

  • 5/5 Halal D. 1 year ago on Google
    For those visiting the Bay Area with kids, this is an absolute must visit. Our kids had a fantastic time and the best part was the indoor jungle with birds and butterflies flying around, vines surrounding you…welcome to the jungle! It gets humid in there naturally, so make sure to have a cold water bottle with you handy!

  • 5/5 Lily M. 1 year ago on Google
    Great place for families. You can easily spend a whole day here with the kids. So much to see and all educational! The conservatory is VERY humid to accommodate the butterflies and the plants. Be aware, it’s a sight to see but get ready to sweat!

  • 5/5 Victor S. 3 months ago on Google New
    A very nice place to spend time in San Francisco. Rich in marine life, curiosities and an impressive planetarium. It also has a very reliable tropical vertical nursery. There are environmental and vegan appeals on some sides, but this is normal for the Californian mentality. Overall, an excellent place to take the family, children and learn a lot

  • 5/5 mahima p. 3 months ago on Google New
    Very nice place and so much of Interactive exhibits. There is so much to see - African Land, Dinosaur attraction, Living Roof, Aquarium, Planetarium, Rainforest. You would need atleast 4-5 hours to see everything in detail. We went on a weekend but lucky us there was less crowd than expected and hence we could cover all the places in 3 hours and had a nice break for snacks there (pretty expensive).

  • 5/5 Siddhartha J. 4 months ago on Google
    We regularly visit Cal Academy every few months as kids love it. The huge reef aquarium, manta rays, swamp fishes and the butterflies in the rainforest besides the immersive planetarium being the highlights of every trip. The pop up activities and talks on penguin feeding, swamp etc are awesome. Great place for the family.

  • 3/5 Abhishek J. 4 months ago on Google
    Spent about 3-4 hours with kids here. One time watch with tough to find parking. Most attractions are fairly static like rainforest, Dino attraction, living roof which is a few square feet at most. It didn't feel worth the expensive ticket price.

  • 4/5 Friendly N. 7 months ago on Google
    Today was the busiest weekday I had ever experienced coming here. Still with the big crowd, it's a great place to visit with the kids, and the highlight is definitely the planetarium shows. The new dinosaur exhibit is nice, but overall, they need some things to be updated.

  • 4/5 Jeff R. 1 month ago on Google • 19 reviews New
    This place is pretty big . However, for the price , I was expecting bigger and more activities and displays. There is an area for aquatic animals and an area for historical displays as well as a big planetarium. Major tip for the planetarium, you must RESERVE a timed session online to get into the regular line. Otherwise, you will have to wait on stand by . We got confused but eventually got into the stand by. Planetarium- very big with a lot of seats ! Show - We had the “ Universe in Us” showing during our visit. I am an avid fan of Astronomy and I have a good amount of knowledge on the subject. While the presentation and venue was great , the information in the film was a bit too technical for kids and the general public . One of my friends fell asleep and the other was losing attention . It felt like an astrophysics study material rather than a simple story telling that ignites a spark in your mind about the universe . Wish it was better! Pro tip : Pricing is $55 on website but third party sites offer a massive discount for an all day ticket .


Call (415) 379-8000 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible restroom
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

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