Viator Rating : 5 (50 reviews)
California Academy of Sciences
NightLife at California Academy of Sciences (21+)
240
Overview
Explore the California Academy of Sciences NightLife, an adults-only (21+) experience in San Francisco! Every Thursday night, the Academy transforms with live DJs, outdoor bars, and special programs, offering a unique way to see nearly 60,000 live animals.
What can visitors expect? Guests can wander through exhibits, enjoy music, and sip cocktails under the stars. The California Academy of Sciences NightLife event provides access to most exhibits and shows, though availability may vary. Explore the depths of the ocean, journey through the rainforest, and gaze at the stars in the planetarium (note: planetarium shows require an additional $5 fee).
The ticket includes access to NightLife music and entertainment and all available exhibits and shows. It excludes hotel pickup and drop-off, food and drinks (available for purchase), and planetarium show passes. This is a great opportunity to experience the California Academy of Sciences in a fun, unique way, perfect for a night out with friends. 
Highlights
Adults-Only Fun: Enjoy a night out designed just for adults (21+).
Live Music & DJs: Dance and groove to live music and DJ sets each week.
Explore Exhibits at Night: See nearly 60,000 live animals and exhibits in a new light.
Themed Programming: Experience a different theme each week with special activities.
Sentiment Analysis
Guests love the unique atmosphere of NightLife.
-
Visitors enjoy the combination of science and social fun.
-
Many appreciate the live music and bar options.
-
The event is seen as a great way to experience the museum in a different light.
Some find it crowded.
-
A few mention that lines can be long.
The Journey
California Academy of Sciences NightLife
Experience the California Academy of Sciences in a unique way with NightLife, a weekly Thursday event for adults 21 and over. Enjoy after-hours access to all exhibits, accompanied by music, cocktails, and a rotating scientific theme. It's an exclusive opportunity to explore natural history, planetarium shows, and aquarium exhibits in a lively, social atmosphere. NightLife offers a sophisticated blend of education and entertainment, making it a must-visit for those seeking a distinctive museum experience.
Morrison Planetarium
Journey into the depths of space at the Morrison Planetarium, the largest all-digital planetarium dome in the world. Cutting-edge technology provides breathtakingly realistic views of the universe, transporting visitors to distant galaxies and nebulous wonders. Witness celestial phenomena unfold with unparalleled clarity, guided by expert narrators who illuminate the mysteries of the cosmos. Note that passes are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, so arrive early to secure your seat for an unforgettable interstellar voyage. This experience is an invitation to contemplate our place in the universe and revel in the beauty of the cosmos.
California Academy of Sciences
Discover the California Academy of Sciences, a world-class natural history museum nestled in the iconic Golden Gate Park. Home to an aquarium, planetarium, natural history museum, and rainforest all under one living roof, the Academy offers a day of immersive exploration. Wander through diverse ecosystems, from the depths of the ocean to the canopy of a rainforest, and marvel at a vast collection of specimens that tell the story of life on Earth. The Academy's commitment to research and education makes it not just a museum, but a center for scientific discovery and environmental stewardship. Its location within Golden Gate Park adds to its appeal, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty and intellectual stimulation.
Know Before You Go
This ticket includes access to NightLife music, entertainment, and available exhibits and shows. It does not include hotel transportation, food, drinks (available for purchase), or planetarium show passes (additional $5). This experience doesn't include pickup/dropoff but offers a night of entertainment. Guests can enjoy the academy at night!
Hot Tip
Some reviewers suggest getting there early to avoid long lines and to make the most of the exhibits before it gets too crowded.
Review Summary
People find this event highly enjoyable for its unique adult-only atmosphere with live music and cocktail bars, providing a fun and educational experience with access to live animal exhibits and special programming. Positive reviews frequently mention the engaging atmosphere, well-curated exhibits like the rainforest dome and planetarium shows, and the opportunity to explore the museum without families or children. However, some guests note logistical issues, such as confusing ticketing processes, occasional overcrowding, and the event closing promptly at 10pm limiting exploration time. Additionally, the pricing is sometimes described as steep, with the cost of food and drinks at the venue considered expensive. Despite minor drawbacks, most visitors recommend the NightLife for a distinctive museum experience in San Francisco.
Frequently Asked Questions
Location
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
San Francisco
$75
NightLife at California Academy of Sciences: VIP Tickets
5.0
(2 reviews)
Duration: 240
minutes
California Academy of Sciences NightLife Plus Admission Ticket lets people 21 and older explore the museum after dark. It's a fun night out in Golden Gate Park where science meets nightlife!
What to Expect: Get special access to the Gems and Minerals exhibit with a private bar. Plus, enjoy two free drinks and yummy snacks while looking at cool rocks. Skip the long lines at the Osher Rainforest and Shake House. See a show at the Morrison Planetarium and get discounts on food and gifts. It's like a party in a museum!
This experience includes entry to NightLife, tasty bites, and two drinks. Guests also get a special tour of the Academy’s research collections. Everything except getting to and from your hotel is included, so plan accordingly.
San Francisco
$49
Discover Science Wonders: Skip the Line at California Academy of Sciences
4.2
(584 reviews)
California Academy of Sciences General Admission offers access to an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum under one roof. Explore diverse exhibits, including the new 'Dinos Days' and 'Unseen Oceans' in spring 2025. Instant access ticket ensures a seamless entry to a world of science and wonder.
San Francisco
$129
Vantigo: Cruise San Francisco's Soul in a Groovy VW Bus!
5.0
(736 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
Vantigo's VW bus tour offers a unique San Francisco experience, navigating through 14 districts with Alcatraz and Golden Gate views. Discover the city's history, from the Gold Rush to Silicon Valley, with insightful local stories. Enjoy photo stops and a fresh perspective, perfect for first-timers and locals alike.
San Francisco
$239
Yosemite & Giant Sequoias Day Trip from San Francisco
4.9
(3655 reviews)
Duration: 840
minutes
The Small Group Yosemite and Giant Sequoias Day Trip from San Francisco takes people to Yosemite National Park. Many say it's the most beautiful of all the national parks. This bus tour shows visitors the best spots, like Bridalveil Falls and Tunnel View. See El Capitan and Yosemite Falls. The tour also includes a walk into a grove where giant sequoia trees grow. This is an adventure that brings nature to life.
During this trip, travelers will stop at places like the Bridge to Yosemite to see the scenic beauty. The tour will guide people through Yosemite Valley Overlook and Yosemite Falls Trail. The experience allows visitors to see the vast landscape of Yosemite Valley. There will be stops for photos with Sentinel Falls and the grand El Capitan.
The tour includes park fees, hotel pick-up and drop-off from some hotels in San Francisco, and all activities. It does not include food, drinks, or tips. Pick-up and drop-off are not available from homes or hotels outside of San Francisco. This small group tour ensures more time to explore with fewer passengers.
San Francisco
$37
Discover San Francisco's Enchanting Stairways: A Mosaic of Views & Hidden Gems
5.0
(241 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
Hidden Stairways of San Francisco: Explore mosaic steps and vibrant neighborhoods on this leisurely 2-mile walk. Enjoy panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and discover succulent-filled gardens. Perfect for all fitness levels, this tour offers a unique glimpse into the city's best-kept secrets, blending art, nature, and history.
San Francisco
$270
Unforgettable San Francisco: Customizable MINI Cooper Convertible Tour!
5.0
(233 reviews)
Experience San Francisco in a unique, convertible MINI Cooper tour! This personalized adventure lets you customize the route, timing, and sights. With an experienced guide, explore famous landmarks and hidden gems at your own pace. Enjoy a fun, intimate, and unforgettable journey through the city's history and culture. This is the best way to explore San Francisco.
Nearby Events
Golden 1 Center
Feb 21
8:00 PMRicardo Arjona Sacramento: LO QUE EL SECO Tour
Ricardo Arjona - LO QUE EL SECO NO DIJO TOUR brings the legendary Guatemalan pop star to Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, where fans will experience one of Latin America's most celebrated artists performing his iconic romantic ballads and powerful rockers. Known as El Animal Nocturno and hailed as one of the most successful Latin American artists of all time, Arjona returns to North America in 2026 with a brand-new tour celebrating decades of hits that have captured hearts worldwide. His distinctive tenor voice and poetic storytelling have earned him multiple Grammy Awards, including Best Latin Pop Album and Best Male Pop Vocal Album, cementing his status as a cornerstone of Latin pop music.
This much-anticipated North American tour marks Arjona's triumphant return to stages across the region, showcasing the romantic and powerful ballads that define his career. Golden 1 Center, Sacramento's premier entertainment venue, provides an intimate yet expansive setting for this unforgettable live performance.
Golden 1 Center
Apr 13
4:30 PMWWE Monday Night RAW at Golden 1 Center
WWE Monday Night RAW at Golden 1 Center brings the flagship WWE television spectacle to Sacramento, filling the arena with live TV drama, pyrotechnics, and high-stakes matches featuring many of the company’s top Superstars.[3][6] As part of WWE’s ongoing touring schedule across North America, fans can expect a full TV taping atmosphere with cameras, commercial breaks, and story-driven bouts that feed into WWE’s weekly programming.[5][6]
WWE remains the world’s leading sports entertainment brand, known for blending athleticism, storytelling, and larger‑than‑life characters across RAW, SmackDown, and premium live events seen globally.[5][6] Golden 1 Center, home of the Sacramento Kings, is a modern downtown arena praised for its sightlines, technology, and accessible amenities, making it a popular stop for major WWE events and touring shows.[2][4]
Oracle Park
Mar 25
5:05 PMGiants vs Yankees Opening Day Tickets Oracle Park
San Francisco Giants vs. New York Yankees at Oracle Park ignites the 2026 MLB season with the Giants' home opener, pitting two storied franchises in an intense Opening Day showdown. As the only game on MLB's schedule, expect exclusive fanfare, storytelling, and electric energy from a passionate Bay Area crowd fueling the Giants' home-field advantage.[2][4]
The San Francisco Giants and New York Yankees boast legendary histories, with the Giants kicking off their season against the powerhouse Yankees known for their storied rivalries and championship pedigree. Oracle Park, renowned for its stunning bay views and vibrant atmosphere, amplifies the excitement of this marquee matchup.[2][4]
Golden 1 Center
Apr 04
7:30 PMKamala Harris Live at Golden 1 Center Sacramento
Kamala Harris - A Conversation with Kamala Harris arrives at Sacramento's Golden 1 Center for a compelling lecture event. As the 2024 Democratic presidential nominee, Harris shares insights from her groundbreaking presidential campaign and her latest book "107 Days," offering a nuanced dialogue on the country’s future.
Harris made history as the first Black and South Asian woman nominated for president by a major party, promising a vision of progress and leadership. The Golden 1 Center, a premier venue in Sacramento known for its modern amenities and central location, provides an exceptional setting for this unique political and cultural event.
Golden 1 Center
Jan 20
7:00 PMSacramento Kings vs. Miami Heat Tickets
Sacramento Kings vs. Miami Heat at Golden 1 Center brings an intense NBA showdown between a resurgent Heat squad and a Kings team rebuilding around new faces and fresh energy.[5][7] With Miami battling in the Eastern Conference race and Sacramento hungry to turn promise into consistent wins, every possession matters in this marquee Western home date.[5][7]
Miami’s disciplined, defense-minded identity and emerging scorers make them a dangerous visitor, while Sacramento leans on explosive perimeter play and a passionate local fan base that turns Kings games into a loud, home-court advantage.[5][6][7] Golden 1 Center, known for its modern design, strong acoustics, and fan-friendly amenities, amplifies the atmosphere for one of Sacramento’s most anticipated NBA matchups.[2][6]
San Jose Center for the Performing Arts
Jan 16
8:00 PMWanda Sykes Live in San Jose: Get Tickets Now
Wanda Sykes: Please & Thank You Tour with Special Guest Keith Robinson lights up the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts. This Emmy-winning stand-up comic delivers her signature sharp wit on politics, pop culture, and everyday absurdities in her ongoing tour that began in 2025 and extends through 2026.
Wanda Sykes, ranked among Entertainment Weekly's '25 Funniest People in America,' brings fresh material from her Netflix special 'I'm an Entertainer,' nominated for Emmy, Grammy, and Golden Globe awards. She stars in and co-showruns Netflix's 'The Upshaws,' earning NAACP Image nominations. The San Jose Center for the Performing Arts offers exceptional acoustics in an elegant setting.[1][2][7]
The Bucket List Playbook: Top Things to do in San Jose
Ready for adventure? Dyvarcity is your ultimate guide to the top 100 things to do in San Jose From must-see attractions like Short Term Availability, Music, Private Sightseeing Tours & Arts & Theatre in San Jose. We've handpicked events & experiences with passion: whether you love activities that move your body, vibrant music, sports, food, or cultural explorations.
View San Jose Activities