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Explore San Francisco’s California Academy of Sciences. Visit the aquarium, rainforest, planetarium, and museum. Viral Tiny Chef brings a new planetarium film and mini-exhibit starting December 13.

Highlights

• Meet nearly 60,000 animal residents, from playful penguins to a white alligator!
• Explore hands-on exhibits and enjoy a diverse range of public programs.
• Gain entry to all shows and exhibits with new exhibits opening every year.
• Feel a sense of wonder as you discover the magic of the natural world.
• Tiny Chef debuts a new planetarium film and mini-exhibit starting Dec 13.

Description

Discover the California Academy of Sciences located in the heart of Golden Gate Park where you can experience the only place on Earth with an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum all in one day. With hands-on exhibitions, shows, and public programs, you’re in for an action-packed science adventure. Plunge into the world’s deepest living indoor coral reef, home to nearly 60,000 live animals, representing more than 1,000 unique species. Meet a colony of playful penguins in African Hall. Then pay a visit to the iconic alligator with albinism, Claude. Catch the latest immersive show in the 75-foot planetarium, taking you on a spectacular journey to the far reaches of the universe, featuring different themes at varying times throughout the day. Step inside a lush, four-story rainforest teeming with life – from free-flying birds to exotic reptiles, amphibians, and more. Investigate hundreds of specimens and dabble in hands-on activities for children and adults alike in the Naturalist Center. The adventure continues outside with unique rooftop views on the 2.5 acre living roof. Then, take an opportunity to activate your child’s curiosity about the natural world in our outdoor nature play and exploration space, Wander Woods. New Exhibit - We're going BIG on TINY. Visit the California Academy of Sciences this December to view the world through the whimsical lens of celebrated social media stop-motion star Tiny Chef. Opening Saturday, December 13, Tiny Chef, Big Impact features a newly-created 20-minute film that brings Chef to the Morrison Planetarium big screen with a hilarious presentation that underscores how even the tiniest actions can make a big difference for our planet. Plus, don’t miss an exhibition of Tiny Chef props, a memorable photo op, custom merchandise, and more! On view through Spring 2026.

Includes

General entry ticket All exhibits and shows (including Tis the Season for Science)

Important Information

• Children under 4 are not permitted inside the Planetarium Tiny Chef images credited to Tiny Chef Productions LLC

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund