For some reason, I have kept this post waiting for a long time. I’m not sure, there is no real reason for it. So lets go visit one of the world’s biggest natural history museum: The California Academy of Sciences.
The museum is located in Golden Gate Park in San Francisco, so it is easy to find if you are visiting the city. This museum has a very long history. The academy was established in 1853 and the first museum opened in 1874. After that, it has changed its name, moved the location and gotten a new building several times. The museum was almost completely destroyed by the big fire after the 1906 earthquake in San Francisco. After that, it was opened in a new location in Golden Gate Park, but even that building got damaged in the Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989. Then a decision was made to completely renovate the museum. The current museum building was planned as ecological as possible, and it is known for its green grass rooftop.
Among all the nature things you can see in the museum, there is also a planetarium, aquarium and a rainforest in it. In the natural museum one can visit exhibits from all over the world. One interesting section is the part where they showcase evolution. Another popular spot is the earthquake simulator where people can feel what it would be like in a major earthquake.
Our favorite is absolutely the rainforest. In a hot and steamy tropic room you can see all kinds of animals from poisonous frogs to beautiful butterflies. You might have to stand in a line for a while to get in, but it is well worth it!
Another one that we like is the Steinhart Aquarium which showcases one of the world’s most diverse coral reef. I could stay in the aquarium for hours to watch all the sea creatures. Kids and adults too can get close to ocean critters in a touch pool where the staff will tell you about what you are looking at. I also love the colourful, tropical fish. Kids usually love to watch penguins getting fed, and they also have an albino alligator which would not survive in nature.
We have visited the California Academy of Sciences multiple times and it is always fun. A day goes really fast there and every time we learn something new. It is a perfect place if you get tired of sightseeing or if it is raining. I can truly recommend a visit!
TIPS FOR VISITING THE CALIFORNIA ACADEMY OF SCIENcES
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If you want to avoid standing in line, you can buy your ticket ahead of time online. You should also google some discount tickets that can often be found.
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Going through the museum takes hours. So bring comfortable shoes and reserve a lot of time for your visit. Take a program with you from the door so you can check when the different shows start.
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The museum has a nice cafe where you can buy both food and snacks.
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There is a big parking garage next to the museum but especially on the weekends the parking fills up fast. The earlier you arrive, the easier it will be to find parking.
This looks like a great place for the kids and even the grownups to visit. I love visiting places like museums and this kind of place, where people can pick up knowledge as well 🙂
Exactly, it is both fun and educational.
I love taking my great nephews to places like this, so important for them to learn by actually seeing things in person. The rain forest does sound like kids would really enjoy it!
I think these kinds of educational places are just great!
I love this place! I went for an evening one time and loved the albino alligator! Very cool place to take kids and see them in awe of nature and wonderful things showcased there. This makes me want to go back for another visit!
Yes, you should go. I noticed that everytime I go, I discover something new that I missed on my previous visit.
I think buying tickets ahead is an evergreen travel tips, although I learned the hard way and I’m always grateful if I ever find a reminder such as this in your posts. The California Academy of Science is a nice place to visit with the family and yes, like you, I’ll be stuck at the aquarium. Good to know that is kid friendly too. And the ecological theme it promotes is sure a way to sustain life. Thanks for this post.
Thanks Lydia! Looks like we like the same things.
Wow, this looks like the perfect place to spend an afternoon, especially the aquarium.
As someone who hates standimg in queues, it’s great to know that you can purchase tickets online. And even get discounted tickets too…bonus!
Yes, I can definitely recommend!
This looks like an interesting place to visit in San Francisco. I don’t have kids, but I’d still like to see it! The aquarium is always a good attraction.
Definitely! It’s not only for kids. Everyone loves it.
Looks like the museum is a great place to take the kids. We’ve never been to SF as a family, but I’m sure my son will like this place.
Yes, this is a great place for both; kids and adults.
My friends and I visited San Francisco not too long ago, but opted for the Japanese Tea Garden instead of the Academy of Sciences…and now I’m wishing we did both! I love aquariums and the things I learn when I visit. I’m not sure how I feel about the albino gator, as I’m completely terrified of gators!
Well next time you should visit the museum!
Such a cool museum to explore for the kids. Personally, I’d love to explore the Steinhart Aquarium as I love looking at coral reefs. And the touch pool sounds like an incredible experience too.. Thank you for sharing about this. Must’ve been a relief to finally publish this post! 😉
Thanks Marvi! I love coral reefs too.
The California Academy of Science looks enormous. The albino alligator is fascinating as well, makes sense that he couldn’t survive in nature. Such great learning experiences for kids and adults alike.
Thank you for your comment Lisa.