Your safety is the Academy's top priority. Our health and safety measures are informed by the latest science and align with all local, state, and federal public health requirements. Please keep the following in mind as you plan your visit:

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1. Enjoy science safely: Stay up-to-date with your vaccinations!

Illustration of band-aid with check mark to indicate vaccination

Guests are not required to provide proof of full COVID-19 vaccination or a recent negative test in order to enter the Academy.

We strongly encourage all guests to be up-to-date with their vaccinations, including receiving a booster dose if eligible, and require everyone to complete a health self-screening before entering the museum. As always, please stay home if you're feeling sick!

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2. Advance purchase strongly recommended!

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All guests are encouraged to purchase timed-entry tickets online in advance.

Buying in advance ensures you get the best prices and guaranteed availability on busy days. Plus, save time by skipping the ticket window.

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3. Indoor masking encouraged!

Illustration of person wearing mask

While masks are not required indoors for guests and staff, we encourage everyone to keep masking up.

Masking is a great way to reduce risk in busy indoor spaces, and we continue to encourage it for all humans in the building ages 2 and up. Please note that masks may be required during certain portions of the VIP Tour.

For more information, view the Masks and safety FAQ.

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Vaccination policy

Effective September 16, 2022, guests are no longer required to provide proof of full COVID-19 vaccination or a recent negative test in order to enter the Academy. However, we still strongly encourage all guests to stay up-to-date with their vaccinations. For more information, please view the FAQ below. 

Please note that the Academy’s vaccination policy is subject to change as local conditions and public health guidelines continue to evolve. We appreciate your patience, cooperation, and understanding as we work to keep each other healthy.

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FAQ

Vaccination recommendation

Why did the Academy lift the vaccination-or-test requirement on September 16, 2022?
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the Academy has used the best-available science and data to inform health and safety policies that both protect our staff and guests and ensure equitable access for the communities we serve. As cases decline and prevention and treatment options expand, we lifted our vaccination-or-test requirement for guests on Friday, September 16, moving from mandatory to recommended actions to allow individuals to act according to their specific needs and health risks. Here are the three primary reasons we feel confident making this update now:

  1. Cases continue to trend downward in both San Francisco and the US, indicating reduced risk for the community at large.
  2. A wider array of effective risk management tools are now available to more people, from a newly available booster dose, to one-way masking, to antivirals like Paxlovid and Remdesivir.
  3. While health guidelines from the CDC, the California Department of Public Health and Cal/OSHA continue to strongly recommended vaccination, there are no mandates for public venues such as museums.

While the pandemic continues to evolve, one thing has stayed the same: Our commitment to science, safety, and community—and our appreciation for your support. Thank you!

Will this policy be in place for the foreseeable future, or for a defined period?
Our vaccination policy, along with our other health and safety policies, will be in effect until further notice, and may be modified at any time. We will continue to monitor COVID-19 trends—as well as that of other pathogens like monkeypox—and may adjust future policies according to the risks posed to the community. As always, we will do our best to inform guests about upcoming policy changes as far in advance as possible.

Does the Academy still encourage vaccination?
Yes. While we no longer check for proof of vaccination or a negative test result at the door, we still strongly encourage all eligible guests to stay up-to-date with their vaccinations. Being fully vaccinated, including receiving all recommended booster doses, remains the best way to reduce your risk of serious illness from COVID-19 infection.

Does the vaccination policy apply to all events and programs at the Academy?
While our vaccination recommendation applies to most ticketed events at the Academy, some events and programs may have stricter requirements depending on audience, setting, and relative risk. These requirements will always be listed prominently on the event’s webpage, and guests are welcome to contact us anytime with questions.

What is the vaccination policy for Academy staff?
While our vaccination-or-test policy was lifted for guests on September 16, all Academy staff and personnel must continue to be up-to-date on their vaccinations, including booster shots, if eligible.

Where can I get vaccinated or get a booster shot?
California residents can visit myturn.ca.gov for vaccine and booster information, and residents of other states can visit www.vaccines.gov.

Where can I get a COVID-19 test?
Click the links below for some rapid-testing and telehealth testing options in San Francisco. (Please note that the Academy does not endorse or verify the accuracy of the content on the websites below; please contact your health care provider for more information and call the facility in advance to confirm availability, cost, and insurance coverage):

Don’t see your question here? We’re here to help. Please contact us at info@calacademy.org or 415-379-8000 between 8 am-5 pm Monday-Friday or 9 am-5 pm on weekends.

Masks and safety

Why are masks not required for guests?
Indoor masking became optional but strongly encouraged for Academy guests beginning April 14, 2022, following a sustained decline in COVID-19 cases and increasingly available prevention and treatment options. While we continue to encourage masking, especially in busy indoor areas, moving to a recommendation from a mandate allows individuals to act according to their own specific needs and health risks.

Will this policy be in place for the foreseeable future, or for a defined period?
Our mask policy, along with our other health and safety policies, will be in effect until further notice, and may be modified at any time. We will continue to monitor COVID-19 trends—as well as that of other pathogens like monkeypox—and may adjust future policies according to the risks posed to the community. As always, we will do our best to inform guests about upcoming policy changes as far in advance as possible.

Are staff required to wear masks?
Effective September 22, 2022, and in alignment with the latest Cal/OSHA Emergency Temporary Standards and guidance from the the California Department of Public Health, indoor masking on the museum floor and in administrative and back-of-house areas will become optional for staff. We continue to encourage staff to work with their supervisors on any necessary accommodations to ensure they feel safe, supported, and able to do their best work.

Can I eat and drink inside the museum?
Indoor dining is currently permitted only in the Academy Café and gardens. While we look forward to opening up more spaces for indoor dining soon, please continue to enjoy your food and drink in the Café or gardens at this time.

I’m nervous around unmasked people. What should I do?
We understand and respect that comfort levels may vary among our diverse guests. We encourage those who are more comfortable wearing a mask indoors to continue to do so even though it is no longer required. Should you wish to speak with an Academy staff member about your concerns, or to request a refund from a previously purchased ticket, please contact us at info@calacademy.org and we’ll be happy to help.

What kind of masks are recommended?
Not all masks are created equal! Please ensure your mask:

  • Is made with at least two layers of breathable material (consider wearing a disposable mask under your cloth mask if you are in doubt)
  • Is able to fully cover your nose and mouth and secure under your chin
  • Is snug but comfortable against the side of your face
  • Is securable with ties or ear loops
  • Isn’t made of mesh or porous or transparent material
  • Isn’t equipped with one-way air valves or vents

Please note: The CDC has updated its guidance on masking. Learn more

What's the proper way to wear a mask?
Masks are only effective if they're worn snugly and securely over the nose and mouth—not on your neck, forehead, or chin! For your safety and the safety of everyone around you, we strongly encourage you to wear your mask properly at all times while inside the Academy.

Do I still need to practice physical distancing during my visit?
6 feet: no. Common courtesy: yes! While the Academy no longer requires guests to maintain a physical distance of 6 feet (2 meters) from other parties, comfort levels do vary from person to person. By respecting the personal space of your fellow guests, a safer, stress-free visit is within reach.

What if someone is getting too close for comfort?
Please do not approach or confront anyone you suspect may be violating any health and safety rules. Simply keep your distance and notify a staff member. Thank you for keeping yourself and others safe!

How often should I wash or sanitize my hands?
Maintaining good hand hygiene is an important tactic in the fight against COVID-19. A good rule of thumb is to wash or sanitize your hands

  • before entering the Academy
  • before eating
  • after touching door handles, banisters, railings, elevator buttons, glass, or other high-touch surfaces while moving between exhibits
  • after using the restroom or changing diapers
  • after blowing your nose, coughing, sneezing, or touching your face
  • after eating
  • after exiting the Academy

Please also be sure to encourage good hand hygiene with your children while at the museum—and lend a hand if necessary!

Where can I wash or sanitize my hands?
Hand sanitizer stations have been placed in prominent locations throughout the Academy so you’ll never be too far from clean hands. Additionally, there are restrooms on every floor where you can wash up with soap and water.

Should I bring my own hand sanitizer?
While there is plenty of sanitizer available at the Academy, you are welcome to bring your own. The CDC recommends hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

Ticketing

I’m a member. Do I still need to make a reservation?
Nope! As of January 20, 2022, members and donors no longer need to reserve tickets online. Instead, simply show your new digital membership card and photo ID at the member entrance for admission.

How do I purchase tickets?
We strongly recommend that guests purchase tickets online at least one day in advance for the best prices and to guarantee availability on busy days. Tickets are available up to four weeks in advance—and the further in advance you buy, the more you’ll save.

Here’s how:

  1. Head to our Buy Tickets page and select your ticket. 
  2. Select your visit date. Click the first dropdown menu to select a visit date. Unless otherwise noted, the Academy is open daily, Monday-Saturday, 9:30-5 pm, and Sunday, 11 am-5 pm. Members-only hours are Tuesday, 8:30-9:30 am and Sunday, 10-11 am. Tip: Weekdays and afternoons are usually quieter than weekends, and ticket prices are usually lower.
  3. Select your entry time. Click the second dropdown menu to select an available entry timeslot. You may enter the museum at any time within your timeslot. Please do not arrive before your timeslot, and note that late entries may not be accommodated.
  4. Select your ticket quantity. Indicate how many Adults (18-64), Youth (3-17), Students (18+ with ID), and Seniors (65+ with ID) are in your party. Children 2 and under always visit for free. 
  5. Click Add to Cart to proceed to checkout. After completing your purchase, you will receive your tickets via email. On the day of your visit, please be sure to have your tickets ready for scanning, either on your smartphone (brightness all the way up, please!) or printed out.

Are discounted tickets available online?
At this time, the following discounted tickets are not currently available online and must be purchased or redeemed at the Academy ticket window:

  • Museums for All: $3 Daytime Admission and NightLife (21+) tickets are available year-round for EBT/CalFresh, WIC, Lifeline Pass, and Medi-Cal cardholders. Simply present your card at the ticket window to purchase your $3 tickets. Limit 4 per group per visit (2 for NightLife); not valid for special events.
  • Sustainable transportation discount: Enjoy $3 off Daytime Admission tickets when you walk, bike, or take public transit to the Academy.
  • Military discount: Active-duty military personnel enjoy $3 off Daytime Admission tickets with valid military ID or proof of service (e.g., VA card or DD-214).
  • Discover & Go: Library cardholders 14 and older can check out passes good for free Academy admission at participating libraries from San Francisco to Sacramento. Select your library system and log in, or contact your local branch for details.

Questions about any of these discounts? Please email us at info@calacademy.org.

Why do I have to choose a specific time of day to visit?
Timed ticketing helps us regulate and monitor guest flow so all guests can enjoy a safe, comfortable visit. Because ticket prices vary by timeslot, this also gives guests the opportunity to select an entry time that works best for their budget. Please note that there is no time limit for your visit, but the average guest visit is approximately three hours.

Can I visit the Academy with San Francisco CityPASS® tickets?
Yes. Simply buy CityPASS® online for instant, paperless mobile ticket delivery. Next, present your CityPASS® tickets at the ticket window to receive the next available entry time—no advance reservations needed. Learn more about saving 46% off admission with CityPASS®.

Is Plan-Ahead Pricing still in effect?
Yes. The further in advance you buy, the more you’ll save on tickets. At this time, tickets are available to reserve up to 12 weeks in advance. Please note that ticket prices may vary depending on your entry time, with lower prices generally available later in the day. Learn more on our Plan-Ahead Pricing page.

Can I bring my class on a field trip?
Yes. School field trip reservations are available for formal California school groups of students in grades pre-K through 12, including preschool. To read more and apply, visit our School Field Trips page.

Can I bring a group?
If sufficient ticket quantities are available for your desired entry time, you are welcome to purchase tickets for up to 20 members of your group. Learn more on our Groups page.

Entry and guest flow

How do guests enter the Academy?
Guests still enter the Academy at our main entrance at 55 Music Concourse Drive, but additional health and safety measures are in place to protect guests and staff. Please take note of the following for a safe, speedy entry:

  • If you purchased tickets in advance, please arrive within your entry timeslot. Avoid arriving early to minimize crowding at the main entrance. You may arrive at any time within your timeslot, but you may not be permitted to enter early if you arrive early. If you arrive after your entry timeslot, we’ll do our best to accommodate you, but admission cannot be guaranteed. 
  • Please have your tickets ready for scanning, either printed out or displayed on your smartphone—brightness all the way up, please!
  • Just prior to entry, confirm your answers to the health-screening questions that you reviewed before purchasing your tickets online. If anyone in your party can answer “yes” to any of the questions on the day of your visit, we will help you to reschedule your visit for a later date.
  • Please sanitize your hands before entry. We’re doing our best to keep germs outside!

Can I buy tickets at the door?
We strongly recommend that guests purchase tickets online at least one day in advance for the best prices and to guarantee availability on busy days. Tickets are available up to 12 weeks in advance—and the further in advance you buy, the more you’ll save.

Please note that at this time, the following discounted tickets are not currently available online and must be purchased or redeemed at the Academy ticket window:

  • Museums for All: $3 Daytime Admission and NightLife (21+) tickets are available year-round for EBT/CalFresh, WIC, Lifeline Pass, and Medi-Cal cardholders. Simply present your card at the ticket window to purchase your $3 tickets. Limit 4 per group per visit (2 for NightLife); not valid for special events.
  • Sustainable transportation discount: Enjoy $3 off Daytime Admission tickets when you walk, bike, or take public transit to the Academy.
  • Military discount: Active-duty military personnel enjoy $3 off Daytime Admission tickets with valid military ID or proof of service (e.g., VA card or DD-214).
  • Discover & Go: Library cardholders 14 and older can check out passes good for free Academy admission at participating libraries from San Francisco to Sacramento. Select your library system and log in, or contact your local branch for details.

Is there a time limit for Academy visits?
Take your time! While the average guest stays for about three hours, you are welcome to enjoy the Academy safely for as long as you like. Become a member to support science and enjoy unlimited admission year-round.

Can I re-enter after leaving the building?
Yes. If you plan to re-enter the Academy later in the day, please ensure you receive a hand stamp before exiting.

How will the Academy ensure guests experience the museum safely?
In addition to our vaccination and masking recommendation, a little common courtesy goes a long way:

  1. Be patient. Academy staff may ask you to wait for other groups to exit before entering certain spaces.
  2. Limit lingering. Channel your inner fish and keep it moving through the museum to help reduce “schooling” in front of exhibits.
  3. Be polite and stay to the right. Please yield to faster groups and let people pass on your left whenever possible.
  4. Resist the urge to run. We know it’ll be hard for kids to contain their excitement, but please do your best to encourage little ones to slow down indoors. Outdoor play is encouraged in the East and West Gardens!
NightLife, sleepovers, and events

What can I expect at NightLife?
We’ve made some adjustments to in-person NightLife events to help keep guests safe. At this time, NightLife capacity is limited and advance purchase is strongly recommended. View upcoming events here. As always, all guests must be 21+ with a valid, physical photo ID to attend. For those unable to attend in person, the Academy will continue to offer its free virtual NightSchool programs—informal online "classes" with an eclectic mix of science and culture—streaming live (and available as recordings afterwards) on the Academy’s YouTube channel and Facebook page.

Am I required to purchase a planetarium pass in advance in order to see a show during NightLife?
Yes. Due to high demand for planetarium shows during NightLife events, reserved planetarium passes ensure that guests have the opportunity to guarantee a seat, reduce wait times, and better plan their night. Passes must be purchased online in advance for an additional $5, and most NightLife events have showtimes at 6:30, 7:30, 8:30, and 9:30 pm. A limited number of standby seats will be available for all showtimes as space allows on a first-come, first-served basis.

Can I select a specific planetarium seat with my pass?
No, there is no assigned seating in the planetarium. We suggest you arrive 15 minutes before your showtime for choice seating.

How can I find out which shows are playing during NightLife before I purchase a pass?
A weekly program schedule, including planetarium shows, is available on each NightLife event page. Please note: Scheduled programming is subject to change prior to each event date.

What happens if I miss my reserved showtime? Can I exchange or get a refund?
Unfortunately, refunds are not available for planetarium passes. If you miss your reserved showtime or arrive after the planetarium doors have closed, our staff will do their best to accommodate entry to a later show if space permits. If you know you won’t be able to attend the event or would like to exchange for a different showtime, we are happy to exchange your planetarium pass for another date or time up to three days in advance of the event date. After that time, no exchanges can be made.

I’ve already purchased a NightLife Plus ticket. Do I still need to purchase a reserved planetarium pass?
No, all NightLife Plus tickets include entry to the 8:30 pm planetarium show. This is included in the cost of your NightLife Plus Ticket.

What dining options will be available during NightLife?
Food and beverages are available for purchase in the Academy Café and West Garden​ from 6-9:30 pm and include ​a variety of grab-and-go options, craft cocktails, and more​. All food and drink must be enjoyed in the Café or outdoors in the East or West Garden.

Can I re-enter the event after exiting?
For your safety, we’re no longer offering re-entry hand stamps. If you wish to re-enter after exiting, you will need to purchase a new NightLife ticket.

Are NightLife Plus experiences available?
Yes. NightLife Plus guests enjoy a private lounge, two complimentary cocktails and snack, priority entry to Osher Rainforest, reserved planetarium seating, and 10% off at the Café and retail stores. Please note that masks may be required at some portions of the tour portion of the NightLife Plus experience. Learn more!

Are there still public programs and demonstrations during the day?
Yes. We've resumed a variety of daily scheduled programs, and will continue to present “pop-up” programs where Academy staff will host spontaneous, exciting, educational mini-programs throughout the day on every floor, in the East and West Gardens, and on our Living Roof.

Are daytime VIP Tours available?
Yes. Book a VIP Tour to explore the secrets of the Academy as you spend an hour behind the scenes learning more about how the museum works—and what it takes to house nearly 46 million specimens. For ages 8+. Tour includes stairs and unpaved paths, and masks are required during some portions of the tour. 

VIP Tour ticket price does not include Daytime Admission. You will have the opportunity to add a VIP Tour to your order when reserving your tickets online.

Cleaning, disinfection, and HVAC

Is the Academy cleaning and disinfecting more frequently?
Yes. High-touch surfaces like exhibits, restrooms, railings, and seating areas are cleaned and disinfected frequently throughout the day per CDC guidelines, and the entire building is cleaned and disinfected every evening after closing. While the risk of contracting COVID-19 from a contaminated surface—also known as fomite transmission—is thought to be extremely low, we’re doing everything we can to keep our guests, staff, and community safe.

How often are restrooms cleaned?
Restrooms are checked hourly and thoroughly cleaned and disinfected twice daily, and hand dryers have been removed and replaced with paper towels. Please maintain a courteous distance from other guests inside restrooms, keep your mask on (yes, even inside the stall!), and wash and dry your hands thoroughly before exiting.

I’m a little worried about recirculated air. Is it safe to be indoors?
The Academy follows ASHRAE’s (American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air-Conditioning Engineers) CDC-aligned recommendations for HVAC operations, including:

  • Reducing the use of recirculated air and using 100% outside air whenever possible
  • Purging of spaces with outside air before and after occupancy
  • Securing windows that negatively impact central HVAC airflow
  • Use of MERV-13 air filters with an increase in changing frequency
  • Use of portable high-efficiency air filters in some back-of-house areas
  • Use of ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) in some areas

While safety can never be guaranteed in any public space, we believe that the Academy’s vaccination and mask policies and reduction of recirculated air in our indoor spaces will substantially reduce risk of community spread.

Health self-screening

How does the Academy screen guests for COVID-19?
All guests are required to review important health and safety information before purchasing tickets online, and are asked to confirm their responses to a confidential health self-screening before being permitted to enter the museum. If you or anyone in your party can answer “yes” to any of the questions on the screening, you will not be permitted to enter the Academy and will be invited to reschedule your visit for another day. Academy staff will be available to help you select another visit date.

Health self-screening (view PDF):

  • Do not enter the Academy facility if public health guidance recommends that you or a member of your party should either quarantine or isolate due to COVID-19 or if you are currently ill with another communicable illness such as the flu.
  • Use this calculator to determine if you or a member of your party should isolate or quarantine, and find further details on isolation and quarantine from the State of California here.

Are there temperature checks at the door?
At this time, the Academy has no plans to conduct temperature checks at the door in order to detect guests with fevers. While fevers over 100.4ºF are a common symptom of COVID-19, the consistent accuracy of infrared thermal temperature scanners and their effectiveness as a means of reducing community spread has not been established.

What precautions is the Academy taking to protect its staff?
Academy staff who can work remotely will continue to do so, while those whose work requires them to be in the building—such as animal care biologists, engineering staff, guest experience, security, and custodial staff—will be subject to the same daily health self-screening as guests, as well as our staff vaccination requirement.

Dining, shopping, and amenities

What dining options are available?
The Academy Café serves a variety of family-friendly food and beverage options, as well as Andytown Coffee drinks. Guests are welcome to dine in the Café or in any of our outdoor spaces.

The Terrace Restaurant serves seasonal dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients, plus beer and wine.

Hours for both of our restaurants vary; please view our Dining page for more information.

Can I eat inside?
While indoor eating and drinking is limited to the Academy Café at this time, our East and West West Garden spaces offer abundant outdoor seating.

Can guests bring their own food?
Guests are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages. Please head to the East Garden to consume items brought from home.

Is the Academy Store open?
Yes, the Academy Store is open daily.

Is cash accepted?
Cash is accepted at all points of sale inside the Academy except locker rental, but cashless payments are preferred whenever possible. We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.

Are elevators in service?
Yes, elevators are in service. For the comfort of other guests, please maintain a courteous distance when using elevators.

Are lockers available? How often are they cleaned?
Yes, lockers are located just off the main lobby and are available for rent for $5 per day for standard-size lockers and $8 per day for family-size lockers. Lockers are checked frequently and cleaned and disinfected daily. Payment for lockers is by credit card only.

Will I be able to rent a wheelchair?
Yes, wheelchairs are available for guests to use during their visit. Please see a Guest Experience staff member in the Lobby for assistance when you arrive. Wheelchairs are cleaned and disinfected after every use.

Please note

The enhanced health and safety measures described above are intended to minimize the risk of exposure to COVID-19, but this risk cannot be completely eliminated at the Academy or any other public space. Anyone visiting the Academy acknowledges that they do so at their own risk, and agrees to comply with all posted health and safety rules and staff instructions. The Academy reserves the right to ask any guest who fails to follow health and safety rules or staff instructions to leave the premises. Thank you for your help and your understanding. We’re all in this together!

For more information, please view the Assumption of Risk and Waiver for Entry.