California Academy of Sciences

Exhibits and public engagement: the all-digital morrison planetarium uses cutting edge visualizations and scientific data to share current discoveries and increase science literacy through immersive shows that rotate throughout the year. The hidden wonders exhibit provides an unprecedented peek at some of the standout specimens from our scientific collections-including some on view for the very first time. Bugs enables visitors to see the world from insects' point of view, and learn how they've evolved their unique adaptations and behaviors. The giants of land and sea exhibit celebrates northern California's iconic natural phenomena like redwoods, marine mammals, and fog. The color of life exhibit explores the role of color in the natural world with vibrant live animals, specimens, and immersive interactivities. Gems and minerals unearthed showcases specimens from the Academy's renowned geology collection. Bigpicture showcases winning images from the Academy's annual, international wildlife photography competition with a display that rotates annually.

Aquarium: the steinhart aquarium is home to 60,000 live animals representing more than 1,000 unique species, and its innovative exhibits include the largest and deepest indoor coral reef in the world. The four-story rainforest has free-flying birds and butterflies and exotic reptiles and amphibians. In addition to delighting guests with its living collections, for decades the aquarium has played a critical role in species survival plans for endangered animals like its charismatic colony of african penguins. For more than 25 years, the steinhart aquarium has proudly held the gold standard accreditation from the association of zoos and aquariums, a stamp of approval reserved for facilities that embody the very best in animal care and welfare, conservation, and education.

Biodiversity science and sustainability: the Academy's institute for biodiversity science and sustainability (ibss) is home to more than 100 world-class scientists, over 100 research associates globally, and more than 500 distinguished fellows who gather new knowledge about life's diversity and the process of evolution and rapidly apply that understanding to our efforts to regenerate the natural world. Through innovative partnerships and community engagement initiatives, they also guide critical conservation decisions worldwide, inspire and mentor the next generation of scientists, and foster responsible stewardship of our planet so that humans and nature can thrive together.

Education and outreach: the Academy is an innovative leader in efforts to increase scientific and environmental literacy worldwide. The museum is home to science educators and communicators as well as highly trained docents who engage people of all ages-here in California and around the world-in the scientific concepts and issues that will shape our future. Through intensive partnerships with schools and teachers, innovative programs for all ages, engaging online learning and digital media offerings, and immersive science visualization productions, Academy educators work to increase the public's understanding and appreciation of the natural world and inspire participants to take action on behalf of the rich diversity of life on earth.volunteers help support the Academy annually and provide a connection between the diverse bay area community and the Academy's museum, research, and administration. As one of the bay area's leading cultural institutions dedicated to opening its doors to the entire community, the Academy offers a variety of free and reduced admission opportunities and access programs to serve all visitors.

Membership: the Academy's membership program provides year round access to our offerings to nearly 40,000 households. Through their monthly and annual gifts, members support the Academy's mission to regenerate the natural world through science, learning, and collaboration. On average, Academy members visit between two and three times a year, participating in our public programs, exploring the iconic exhibits, such as the steinhart aquarium and rainforest, attending workshops and lectures, and sharing the experience with their friends and families. A significant number of the Academy's members have been a part of the Academy "family" for many generations.

Admissions