Wake up your mind.

Exhibits and shows for explorers of all ages

Cute animated character Tiny Chef stands in his miniature kitchen in a chefs hat
EXTENDED THROUGH SEPTEMBER!

Tiny Chef, Big Impact

Sometimes science needs a little character. Tiny Chef is serving culinary cuteness (and chaos) at the Academy with a new film, exhibit, photo ops, and more.
Rotating GIF file of different images of Vivid exhibit at Cal Academy
OPEN DAILY THRU SEPT. 6

Vivid: Immerse Your Senses

A sense-ational new exhibit has arrived at the Academy! Zoom in and bliss out as you experience six ecosystems through sight, sound, smell, and touch.
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Events and activities to kick-start your curiosity

Guests view Philippine Coral Reef exhibit while a DJ spins in the foreground during NightLife event at Cal Academy
THURSDAYS | 6-10 P.M. | 21+

NightLife

Wonder what our animals get up to once the sun goes down? Find out at the Academy's weekly event that illuminates the unusual intersection of art and science.
Smiling young girl in animal face paint celebrates her birthday at Cal Academy
WEEKENDS

Birthdays the science way

You bring the cake, we'll do the rest. Celebrate your child's special day at the Academy with up to 16 guests, a science-savvy party host, goodie bags, and more.
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World-changing science starts here

Young girl looks through a hand lens at a blue butterfly in the grass
APRIL THROUGH JUNE

Head outside for science!

If you have a smartphone, you can generate critical biodiversity data. Join one of our bioblitzes this spring and summer along the coast or in your neighborhood!
Toddler girl with pigtails stares at a diving African penguin on exhibit at Cal Academy
MEMBERSHIPS START AT $99

Join, renew, or donate

Keep up with your favorite creatures by visiting for free all year long—and support our research, education, and access initiatives while you're at it.
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