What is the cancellation policy for this tour?

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

How long does this tour take?

Please check the tour page for the exact duration.

Where does this tour start?

Meeting point details will be provided in your booking confirmation.

California Academy of Sciences General Admission Ticket

Overview

Embark on a science adventure when you visit the world's only aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum - all under one living roof! And to make it as easy as possible, this ticket includes instant access, meaning you don't have to go to a separate kiosk to redeem your ticket — just present it at the California Academy of Science's entrance and be on your way.

New Exhibits!
Tiny Chef, Big Impact /Dec. 13 - Spring 2026
We're going BIG on TINY. Starting Saturday, December 13, beloved internet star Tiny Chef takes over the California Academy of Sciences with a whimsical new planetarium film and mini-exhibit celebrating how even tiny actions can make a big impact for our planet.

IMPORTANT PLEASE NOTE:
Early Closure:
We will close at 3:00 PM on February 24, 2026

Full Closure:
We will be closed all day on February 25, 2026

Please check the website link that can be found in your voucher for the latest information before your visit.

Gallery

California Academy of Sciences General Admission Ticket — photo 1

California Academy of Sciences General Admission Ticket — photo 2

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California Academy of Sciences General Admission Ticket — photo 7

What's Included

✓ Included

Instant-access admission to the California Academy of Sciences

✗ Not Included

Formal tour
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Food and drinks
Gratuities (not required)

Itinerary

1

Stop 1

Explore hands-on exhibits as you stroll beneath the bones of some of the planet's largest inhabitants. Meet the charismatic African penguin colony while a biologist feeds them and answers your questions, be dazzled by nearly 400 dazzling specimens from the Academy's renowned geology collection, and more. Plus, uncover the surprising connections between California’s unique species, places, and people in our newest exhibit - California: State of Nature! With scientific specimens, engaging interactives, illuminating multimedia, and fascinating models, we’ve got everything for you to explore our state’s unparalleled biodiversity across four ecosystems.

2

Stop 2

Home to nearly 60,000 live animals, representing more than 1,000 unique species, you can experience one of the most biologically diverse and interactive aquariums. Plunge into the world's deepest living indoor coral reef, encounter over a dozen species in the Venom exhibit, and descend into the little-known “Twilight Zone” to learn about the diverse marine life of the pitch-black sea.

3

Stop 3

The 75-foot planetarium dome screen will immerse you inside cutting-edge visualizations and hyper-realistic virtual environments. From faraway galaxies to the working of our own planet, zoom through the cosmos like never before. Choose from multiple different award-winning show options and times available each day. Planetarium show passes are included in the price of admission and can be reserved at the planetarium pass pick-up desk across from the planetarium entrance.

4

Stop 4

Step inside a glass dome filled with a lush four-story rainforest teeming with over 1,600 plants and animals. Mingle with free-flying birds and butterflies to exotic reptiles, golden-silk orb weaver spiders, enormous Amazonian fish, and more. At each stage of the journey, you'll come face-to-face with some of the incredible animals that call these forests home.

5

Stop 5

California Academy of Sciences is located within Golden Gate Park

Good to Know

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Planetarium passes are free and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. When you arrive at the Academy, scan the QR code posted in the lobby to reserve a showtime. Please note that shows may not be appropriate for children under 7, and children under 4 are not permitted.
Sustainable, grab-and-go food and drinks are available for purchase at the Academy Café and Terrace Restaurant

Known For:

Special Instructions

Please note: Guests are no longer required to provide proof of full COVID-19 vaccination or a recent negative test in order to enter the Academy. However, we still strongly encourage all guests to stay up-to-date with their vaccinations.

Please note that the Academy’s vaccination policy is subject to change as local conditions and public health guidelines continue to evolve. We appreciate your patience, cooperation, and understanding as we work to keep each other healthy.

For the latest information, please check the link below before your visit:
https://www.calacademy.org/reopening

• THIS IS YOUR ENTRY TICKET - NO VOUCHER EXCHANGE NEEDED - Proceed directly to attraction entrance and present your ticket(s) for entry to the California Academy of Sciences.
• Each traveler must have a unique ticket for entry – please ensure you have all tickets ready for entry upon visiting the California Academy of Sciences.
• No refunds or exchanges for lost or stolen vouchers.
• Holiday hours subject to change.
• California Academy of Sciences: EU23
• To reserve a showtime for the planetarium, scan the QR code posted in the lobby with your phone as soon as you arrive. NOTE: The quantity of reservations is limited for your safety and we regret that we cannot guarantee available reservations for planetarium shows.