California Academy of Sciences
Aquarium, Planetarium, Rainforest, and Living Roof Under One Living Dome
Curatorial Scope & Collection Architecture
Based in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, the Cal Academy is a renowned scientific and educational institution dedicated to regenerating the natural world through innovative exhibitions and research.
Quarterly Free Admission Days for SF residents by neighborhood zip code.
30-Day Forward Crowd Forecast
Predictive hourly density curves combining search intent, seasonal trends, and local mobility
Recommended Entry Window: Before 11:00 AM or after 3:30 PM
Hourly Crowd Density Curve (10 AM – 5 PM)
Total Cost of Visit Calculator
Itemized expense simulation factoring admission tiers, concession markups, parking fees, and pass discounts.
• Take advantage of Quarterly Free Admission Days for SF residents by neighborhood zip code..
• Public transit or nearby garage apps save up to $14 on parking.
IRS Form 990 & Endowment Transparency
EIN: 94-1156382 • Fiscal Year 2024 Filings
Cal Academy of Sciences’s endowment covers approximately 52 months of operating overhead. Every visitor admission is offset by $34.22 in contributed donations, grants, and investment yields.
Institutional Elasticity & Gate Revenue Simulator
Empirical demand curve simulation calibrated to elasticity coefficient (-0.68)
Minimal friction on philanthropic conversion pipeline.
Frequently Asked Questions & Visit Logistics
How much does admission cost?
General adult admission is $44.50, children $34.50, and seniors $38.50.
Are there civic free days or discounts?
Quarterly Free Admission Days for SF residents by neighborhood zip code.
How long should I plan to visit?
Mobility data indicates visitors spend a median dwell time of 3.4 hours to explore the full permanent collection and grounds.
What are the parking and dining options?
On-site garage/lot parking is approximately $28. Dining is serviced by The Academy Cafe & Terrace ($21/meal).
Related Peer Cultural Institutions
View all in science center →Denver Museum of Nature & Science
Prehistoric Journey, Space Odyssey & Rocky Mountain Wildlife in City Park
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Space Shuttle Atlantis, Saturn V Rocket & Gateway to Mars