Skip the Line: California Academy of Sciences Behind-the-Scenes Tour

Skip the line and go behind-the-scenes at San Francisco’s California Academy of Sciences – the only place on Earth with an aquarium, planetarium, natural history museum and 4-story rainforest all under one (living) roof! On this small-group insider tour, enjoy an intimate look at either the academy’s research focus or animal life. Choose the Academy Tour to explore a lab, see the collection of rare gems and learn about the museum's history and scientists. Choose the Aquarium Tour to see and learn how the animals are cared for that live in the building. Both options include a reserved ticket to Morrison Planetarium and express entry to Rainforests of the World.

No matter which behind-the-scenes tour you choose, you’ll dive deep into the California Academy of Sciences, learning about its commitment to science, research, education and conservation, both inside the exhibits and around the world.

Academy Tour
On this insider-access tour, explore the ‘world’s greenest museum’ from a science and research perspective. With your museum guide, learn about the institution's 159-year history and how its scientists are tackling critical questions about life on Earth. Visit the research collections and a working laboratory, get closer to the living roof, and see breathtaking geology specimens in the vault.

Aquarium Tour
With this option, learn about the history of Steinhart Aquarium and how biologists care for the 38,000 animals – including butterflies, fish, penguins and even an albino alligator – that live in the building. Visit the food-prep kitchen and see the complex water filtration system.

Both options include general admission to the museum, so you can visit all of the exhibits at your leisure before or after your tour. You’ll also receive a reserved seat at Morrison Planetarium and express entrance to Rainforests of the World, a 4-story rainforest exhibit that takes you through many of the planet’s eco-systems.

Special Offer - Book now and receive 10% off at Moss Room restaurant and the Academy gift shop! - Book Now!

• General admission
• 1-hour behind-the-scenes guided tour
• Express entry to the Rainforests of the World exhibit
• Reserved Morrison Planetarium seat

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Gratuities (optional)

Special Offer - Book now and receive 10% off at Moss Room restaurant and the Academy gift shop! - Book Now!