Cal Academy opens at 9:30 a.m. Mon.–Sat. and 11 a.m. Sun. 10:15 a.m. Learn about animals' senses—including your own!—through this interactive Sensory Storytime. Daily, 10:15 a.m. 10:30 a.m. Learn ...

Academy Day is a celebration of the Academy’s anniversary, and each year we reflect on the community and philanthropy that make everything we do here possible. On Academy Day, pay-what-you-can tickets ...

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It may be the waddling. Or their sophisticated tuxedoes. Or perhaps it's the fact that they are highly social and form long-term bonds. Whatever the reason, penguins have a knack for capturing our ...

Multisensory journey transports guests through six of Earth’s most awe-inspiring ecosystems.

Help everyone stay healthy: It's not required, but we encourage all guests to stay up-to-date on their vaccinations and to mask up indoors. If you’re feeling sick or have been in close contact with ...

Thursdays hit different at NightLife. The museum comes alive after hours–wilder, more curious, and full of exciting creatures. Grab your friends, grab a handcrafted drink, and l ...

SAN FRANCISCO, CA (January 7, 2026) — Researchers at the California Academy of Sciences described 72 new animal, plant, and fungi species in 2025, enriching scientists’ understanding of Earth’s ...

SAN FRANCISCO, CA (February 18, 2025) — Academy researchers and partners made the first discovery of both a new genus and species of plant in a U.S. national park in nearly 50 years. The ...

SAN FRANCISCO, CA (August 11, 2025) — The California Academy of Sciences is gearing up to celebrate one of our most iconic residents: Claude, the beloved albino alligator, who turns 30 on September 15 ...

SAN FRANCISCO, CA (December 2, 2025) — It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that Claude, our beloved albino alligator, has passed away at the age of 30. Claude was an iconic California ...

In FY25, the Academy incurred a cash deficit of $7.3M. For the current fiscal year, the cash deficit is projected to exceed $8.0M. This is due in large part to the costs of maintaining our buildings ...