Birthdays at the Academy are wild! Celebrate with a party room, priority exhibit access, and more.
Online booking is now available! Birthday parties are for ages 4-12 and are offered on Saturdays and Sundays. Availability is limited—please book as far in advance as possible.
Don't see your preferred time or date or want to speak with a staff member? Call 415-379-5854 or email experiences@calacademy.org.
Inspire your pint-sized scientist with an unforgettable birthday bash at the Academy!
Designed for children ages 4-12, your party will feature an action-packed array of events and activities at one of the most enchanting — and educational — settings in the Bay Area.
Each party package includes:
Select from one of four wildly fun party packages below:
Become a marine biologist for the day and explore the depths of our aquarium to find and identify a variety of marine species. This package includes:
Recommended for ages 4 and up. $629 members, $699 public. Admission for up to 16 people (including birthday child and family); additional people welcome for $40/person. Maximum party size is 40 people total.
Embark on an exciting safari adventure inside our rainforest to find and identify a variety of animal species. This package includes:
Recommended for ages 4 and up. $629 members, $699 public. Admission for up to 16 people (including birthday child and family); additional people welcome for $40/person. Maximum party size is 40 people total.
Take a giant leap and learn all about the wonders of space and stars. Plus, make your own celestial creation. This package includes:
Recommended for ages 7 and up. $729 members, $799 public. Admission for up to 16 people (including birthday child and family); additional people are welcome for $45/person. Maximum party size is 40 people total.
Perfect for aspiring paleontologists! Learn about the giants that used to roam this land and go home with your very own homemade fossil. This package includes:
Recommended for ages 5 and up. $729 members, $799 public. Admission for up to 16 people (including birthday child and family); additional people welcome for $45/person. Maximum party size is 40 people total.
Please note: Anyone over the age of 1 is considered a guest, regardless of membership status. A $200 non-refundable deposit is required at time of reservation and the balance is due 30 days prior to your event date. No refunds are given for cancellations within 30 days of event.
Got birthday party questions? We've got answers! Please also be sure to review our birthday parties handbook for complete rules and policies.
All party packages include up to 16 guests (adults and children over the age of 1). You are welcome to add additional guests onto your package at $40 per person (Aquarium Odyssey & Canopy Quest packages) or $45 per person (Cosmic Crafts & Ferocious Fossils packages), for a maximum of 40 guests total. Your total guest count includes the birthday child and family.
You are welcome to bring a special birthday dessert such as cupcakes or cake but we do not allow outside food or drinks. If you would like to order additional food we have various options, from quick snacks to hot food, pizza, and more. We can connect you with our Academy Café concierge to plan the perfect party meal.
No need to bring anything, but yourselves! Your party host will decorate the space for you including tablecloths, banners, themed decor, and more.
If you would like to bring additional decor, we recommend limiting it to simple table toppers, specialty napkins/plates, or small banners. Please no balloons, glitter, confetti, flowers, or wall hangings.
Yes! Your party space is booked for two hours and your package includes museum admission for all guests. Guests are welcome to explore the museum before or after your party.
All children who attend a birthday party get to take home an Academy goodie bag. The surprises inside vary, but are sure to include toys or similar items that are age-appropriate for the age range of your guests. The birthday child will receive a special gift in addition to a goodie bag!
Every Academy event supports far beyond what you see in the museum through our mission to regenerate the natural world through science, learning, and collaboration. Learn about our research and strategic initiatives to discover what your event will support.
Payment in full is due at the time of booking and includes a $200 non-refundable deposit. No refunds are given for cancellations within 30 days of your event.
Explore the secrets of the Academy—and peek into our gem vault!—on this exciting 1-hour behind-the-scenes tour.
Come eye to eye with some of the most spectacular creatures and immerse yourself in the habitats they call home.
Celebrate a birthday or special occasion with a private tour! Did we mention the cupcakes?
Explore the secrets of the Academy—and peek into our gem vault!—on this exciting 1-hour behind-the-scenes tour.