Desert NightLife

Can’t stand the heat? Chill out and explore some of the coolest creatures from some of the planet’s hottest climates at Desert NightLife.

DJ Set by Jamie Jams

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Rainforest Exhibit
6:00 - 7:45 PM
Check out our ever-changing Rainforest exhibit and meet all of the colorful creatures that live there before it’s butterfly bedtime.

Live Talk: The Devil’s Road
African Hall
8:00 PM
Catch a behind the scenes look at The Devil’s Road: A Baja Adventure, about a group of adventurers on a 5,000-mile journey across Baja California to recreate the century-old expedition of two prolific and obscure naturalists, followed by a panel discussion with the documentary’s filmmakers.

Desert Showcase
Project Lab
6:00 - 10:00 PM
See how different creatures adapt to desert climates with Academy scientists and specimens from the scientific research collections. Learn about bat ecology and immunology and examine bat skeletons with Hannah Frank, postdoctoral fellow at Stanford.

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NIGHTLIFE TIPS

• Last entry for the Rainforest dome is at 7:45 pm. Please note: drinks are not allowed inside the Rainforest exhibit.
• Thirsty? Each bar area features a unique seasonal craft cocktail—there are multiple bars throughout the museum.
• Special programs and lectures may have limited seating and admission will be available to visitors on a first-come, first-served basis.

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PLANETARIUM PASSES

• Planetarium passes are required for the 7:30, 8:30, and 9:30 pm shows.
• Passes are $3 each and may be purchased online or at the ticket window. Since shows do sell out, we always recommend buying in advance.
• The 6:30 pm live show is always free. Seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Please arrive at the planetarium 15 minutes before your ticketed showtime for seating. We run a tight spaceship!

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FOOD & DRINK

• A variety of food options are available at NightLife from 6:00-9:30 pm, including The Academy Cafe and The Academy Cafe Food Cart located in the front lobby.
• Enjoy a different fresh seasonal "craft on draft" cocktail at each NightLife bar area designed by our resident mixologist Shane McKnight!

All bars accept cash and credit cards.