California Academy of Sciences Tours and Tickets

Plan for at least three hours at this hands-on science center. That's enough time to see the highlights, including the aquarium, rainforest, and natural history exhibits. However, you could easily spend a day here, particularly if you want to attend lectures, see animal feedings, and attend evening events.

Yes. If you book your timed-entry tickets to the California Academy of Sciences ahead of time, you'll save money and guarantee entry into the museum at the time that works with your schedule. Generally, the further in advance you purchase your tickets, the more money you can save.

Yes, visitors may bring backpacks to the California Academy of Sciences. However, all bags, including backpacks, are subject to a security check, and you may need to wear your bag on the front of the body to avoid damaging exhibits. Guests can also store belongings in paid lockers.

The California Academy of Sciences doesn’t have dedicated parking, but the Music Concourse parking garage with entrances at Fulton Street and 10th Avenue and Music Concourse Drive MLK Drive offers hourly paid parking. Free street parking is available, but the Golden Gate Park area gets crowded on weekends and holidays.

Yes, guests can bring food and non-alcoholic drinks inside the California Academy of Sciences. However, only food and drinks purchased from the Academy Cafè can be consumed indoors. Guests bringing food from outside the academy may eat it in the East Garden outdoor space.

Yes, cameras and photography are generally allowed inside the California Academy of Sciences. Visitors can take personal photos but should remain respectful of other visitors and refrain from using flash photography at some marked exhibits. Special exhibits and other areas of the academy may have additional photography restrictions.