David Johnson
United States
After nearly three decades away from the California Academy of Sciences, I finally decided to revisit and witness all the improvements made since my last visit in 1995. The African Hall exhibit was nostalgic and brought back countless childhood memories. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing the lions and zebra displays again. The Pendulum exhibit was also fantastic, and it was thrilling to see the Albino Alligator and other new displays, such as the Hidden Wonders. I couldn't resist purchasing T-Rex and Brachiosaurus toys at the Swamp Shop, and I am eager for another visit to discover more exhibits.
The experience was incredibly enjoyable. Unlike conventional museums where visitors merely walk around and read, here, knowledgeable individuals with science backgrounds actively present and engage with visitors regarding their displays. This dynamic makes the experience much more vibrant. You might even have the chance to converse with aquarium specialists, gaining insights into the methods of maintaining their stunning exhibits. It's a remarkable experience for all ages, from young children to elderly retirees. The interactive element and variety of living creatures truly amaze. A heartfelt thank you to everyone contributing to this spectacular venue.
The California Academy of Sciences wonderfully combines the essence of a museum and a zoo, enhancing the overall experience! I particularly appreciated the informative guide explanations for Claude. You can certainly explore all the main exhibits within a few hours, so it’s advisable to visit even towards the end of the day. We also enjoyed the planetarium, which is an excellent value since it's included in the ticket price! Just a heads up, the chairs can be a tad too comfy, making it easy to relax for too long!
Sarah Brown
United States
The California Academy of Sciences is an extraordinary location to explore, offering a diverse range of attractions—an impressive planetarium (included in the ticket price but operates on a first-come, first-served basis), a rainforest exhibit, an aquarium, and a natural history museum. You can easily spend several hours here, especially if you wish to catch a planetarium show. While it’s a fantastic place for families, it’s equally enjoyable for adults; my spouse and I had a wonderful time discovering the various exhibits. There is also a cafeteria with multiple dining options, and be prepared for some difficulty finding on-street parking. However, parking isn’t a problem in the nearby garage, followed by a simple walk to the entrance.
We visited the California Academy of Sciences located in Golden Gate Park on December 29, and it was a fantastic experience, especially for families with kids! The location was bustling, but it was definitely worth it. This attraction was included in our CityPASS, making it an easy choice, and we had an incredible time exploring everything it had to offer. A highlight was the earthquake simulator, which offers a fun and educational way to experience an earthquake! We saw an albino crocodile (or possibly an alligator; I’m not entirely sure), and it was amazing to view up close. The academy also features a planetarium, but don’t forget to make reservations for the planetarium shows as they tend to fill up quickly! The aquarium was another favorite, showcasing beautiful marine life. They also host animal shows that keep kids engaged and entertained. A local mentioned that the Academy hosts special activities on Thursday nights, which is something to consider for your next visit. There’s also a small cafeteria for a quick bite while you’re there. All in all, the California Academy of Sciences is an exceptional destination for families to enjoy a full day. Highly recommended!
