Exhibits and experiences for explorers of all ages

See what's on
An orange and red dwarf lionfish stares at the camera
OPEN DAILY

Venom

Encounter an array of over a dozen venomous animal species from scorpionfish to assassin bugs to fire urchins in this potent Steinhart Aquarium exhibition.  
Have a Sting Fling
Guest peers into the skull of a fossilized saber-toothed cat in Hidden Wonders exhibition at the Academy
OPEN DAILY

Hidden Wonders

Ancient. Irreplaceable. And now on view! Peek into the past in a new exhibition featuring fascinating specimens from the Academy's vast research collections.
Discover Academy Treasures
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Events and activities to kick-start your curiosity

Planetarium shows, webcams, and DIY science for all
Interior of Morrison Planetarium with still from Living Worlds show on screen
NOW PLAYING

Living Worlds

Is anybody out there? In our newest planetarium show, see how surprising discoveries about life on Earth could help us detect alien life light years away. 
Blast Off
Photo illustration of Claude albino alligator against starry background
THURSDAYS | 6-10 PM | 21+

NightLife

Wonder what our animals get up to once the sun goes down? Find out at the Academy’s weekly event that celebrates the unusual intersection of art and science.
Brighten Up
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World-changing science starts here

Explore ways to give
Rose-veiled fairy wrasse fish against black background by Yi-Kai Tea
BIODIVERSITY RESEARCH

146 new species in 2022!

44 lizards. 14 sea slugs. Seven fishes. Four beetles. Four sharks. And that's just half of them! See what Academy scientists added to the tree of life in 2022. Photo © Yi-Kai Tea

Meet the New Species
3 kids look at a stingray swimming underneath them at the Academy
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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.
Become a Member
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