Tours & Experiences
See the Academy in a whole new light—or with the lights out!—by booking a VIP Tour, birthday party, NightLife Plus, or Penguins+Pajamas Sleepover.
VIP Tours
Did Claude really eat a ballet slipper? Why are there whale bones on our roof? Is there really a sea monster in our basement? At the Academy, there’s a story behind every specimen. Join a VIP Tour for an eye-opening look at what’s not on the public floor.
- Marvel at our massive scientific collections and research areas
- Prepare to be dazzled inside our private gem and mineral vault
- Skip the line at Osher Rainforest and the Shake House
- Enjoy 10% off at all Academy restaurants and stores
- And more!
Birthday Parties
Celebrate Academy-style with one of four customizable parties for children ages 4-12!
- 2-hour party room rental, including setup and cleanup
- Interactive stories and games with your dedicated party host
- Express entry into Osher Rainforest and the Shake House
- Reserved seating in the Morrison Planetarium (minimum age of 4)
- A special gift for the birthday child and party favors for all kids
NightLife Plus (21+)
Cocktails, collections, and VIP access. Cultivate your curiosity with NightLife Plus.
- 2 complimentary cocktails and light hors d’oeuvres
- Complimentary tickets to a Morrison Planetarium show
- Private bar in the Gems and Minerals Unearthed exhibit
- Priority entrance to Osher Rainforest and The Shake House
- Exclusive behind-the-scenes access to the Academy’s research collections with a guided tour
- 10% discount at the Café and retail stores
Penguins+Pajamas Sleepovers
Slumber like a sea cucumber during a family-friendly overnight—and find out what nearly 60,000 live animals get into after-hours.
- Overnight stay in one of our iconic exhibits
- Rainforest access until 8 pm
- Planetarium showings
- Late night snack and early morning breakfast
- Overnight parking and next-day museum admission
FAQ
Got questions about tours and experiences? We've got answers!
What will I see on a VIP Tour?
Our VIP Tours visit behind-the-scenes spaces of the Academy including our Living Roof (weather permitting) and various collection rooms. The tour does not spend much time on the public side of the museum, and will not visit exhibits such as the rainforest or aquarium.
What is the minimum age requirement for VIP Tours?
All VIP Tour guests must be age 8 or older.
Is there a lot of walking on the VIP Tour?
Yes! Our VIP Tours are walking tours, and include walking up and down stairs, on uneven outdoor terrain, and standing for about an hour. Restrooms are not available on the tour.
We can shift the tour route to avoid stairs if needed, no advance notice is required. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to email us at experiences@calacademy.org or call us at 415-379-5854 to inquire about accessible tour options.
Can I take photos on the VIP Tour?
Yes! Photos are allowed on our tours, but flash photography and video recording are prohibited. If your tour guide has any specific photography rules, they will tell you at the beginning of your tour.
Will I meet scientists or see them working on my tour?
VIP Tours typically don't venture into areas where scientists are working, as our scientists like to give tours plenty of space. Rest assured that your tour guide is very knowledgeable about the Academy and our current research, so please feel free to ask as many questions as you like!