Members' Month

We’re honored to spend the month of March celebrating and thanking our members for their ongoing, vital support of the California Academy of Sciences. Explore this page to see what's in store, from animal feedings and exclusive members-only talks to deep discounts on dining, tours, and more.

Not a member? Join or renew today to take full advantage of Members' Month offerings!

Events are members only; membership will be confirmed at check-in.

Member Preview: Dino Days
Friday, February 28 | 9:30 am PT
East & West Gardens

Kick of Members Month early with an exclusive preview of Dino Days! This spring, walk among prehistoric giants as 13 life-size animatronic dinosaurs take over both of the Academy’s outdoor gardens in our biggest Dino Days ever. Marvel at the different dinosaur species that ruled the Earth millions of years ago, from the massive and mighty Tyrannosaurus rex to the elaborately feathered Deinonychus and even a duck-billed Parasaurolophus with a nest of babies.

Plus, explore specimens from the Academy’s own geology collection, including fossils from the Cretaceous period, and meet the scientists who study them!

Then, enjoy a special visit with Dr. Scott Sampson, the Academy’s Executive Director and resident paleontologist (formerly known as Dr. Scott from the popular PBS Kids show Dinosaur Train).

No RSVP is required.

Member Premiere: Why Dinosaurs?
Sunday, March 9 | 10 am PT
Planetarium

Members are invited to the Planetarium premiere of Why Dinosaurs?, a documentary about dinosaurs and the people who love them by father son duo Tony and James Pinto. Follow Tony and James on a journey around the world, interviewing paleontologists about the latest dinosaur research, digging up real dinosaur bones, and encountering dinosaur fanatics from all walks of life. The documentary features a wide array of dinosaur enthusiasts, from seasoned paleontologists and amateur fossil hunters to paleo artists and fans of the Jurassic Park movie franchise.

Following the film, Dr. Scott Sampson, the Academy’s Executive Director, will host a Q&A session with Tony and James Pinto, as well as scientists and experts featured in the film.

Events are members only; membership will be confirmed at check-in. RSVP is required.

Member Preview: Unseen Oceans
Thursday, March 20, 9:30 a.m.
Forum

In our newest exhibition, Unseen Oceans, explore the mysterious wonders of the deep sea, including:

• glowing supersized models of larger-than-life plankton;
• interactive activations that put you in the driver’s seat of a deep sea submersible;
• ancient marine fossil replicas and specimens like a giant squid beak;
• cutting-edge technology and robotics;
• mesmerizing videos that bring you face to face with life-sized blue whales, giant squid and manta rays;
• and more!

Learn more about the incredible fishes and creatures that call our oceans home with Jon Fong, the Academy’s collections manager of ichthyology, who will share specimens from behind the scenes. Then, discover how you can help protect our oceans with the Center for Biodiversity and Community Science!

No RSVP is required.

Unseen Oceans is organized by the American Museum of Natural History, New York (amnh.org)

Member Talk: Behind-the-Scenes of Unseen Oceans
Tuesday, March 25 | 3 pm PT
Boardroom and Livestreamed

Take a dive deep into a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Unseen Oceans with members of the Academy's Exhibit Studio. From selecting shark jaws to finessing fish projections, learn how we added a unique Academy spin to this incredible exhibit originally developed by the American Museum of Natural History.

Speakers:
Paige Laduzinsky, Senior Exhibit Content Developer
Nick Bakovic, Senior Exhibit Designer
Megan Stewart, Exhibits Project Manage

Events are members only; membership will be confirmed at check-in. RSVP is required.

Swamp Feeding
Tuesday, March 11 | 8:45 am PT
The Swamp

Join us to learn how Academy biologists take care of our favorite American alligator with albinism, Claude, and his alligator snapping turtle swamp-mates. And if they're feeling hungry, there's a chance you'll get to see what they eat! Questions encouraged!

No RSVP required to attend.

Lagoon Feeding
Tuesday, March 18 | 8:45 am PT
The Lagoon

Watch in awe as Academy biologists feed our rays as they glide beneath your feet. Explore the fascinating adaptations of these ocean cruisers and their relatives, and learn about what you can do to keep them and their ocean homes healthy.

No RSVP required to attend.

Penguin Feedings
Every Sunday in March | 10:30 am PT
African Hall

Learn all about our charismatic African penguin colony from Academy biologists during these Sunday breakfasts and special enrichment activity. Unable to visit in person? Tune in to the penguin cam to see the feedings live!

No RSVP required to attend.

Sunday Members’ Brunch
Every Sunday in March | 10-11 am PT
The Terrace | West Garden

Start your Sunday mornings in March at the museum with a selection of pastry items for purchase and a complimentary regular mimosa or orange juice at The Terrace. While supplies last; limit one drink per member.

No RSVP required to attend.