Make room for
a little wonder.

Opening times

All times are local to San Francisco.

Monday to Saturday

09:30–17:00Last entry 16:00

Sunday

11:00–17:00Last entry 16:00

Closures

Wednesday 2 December 2026Closed to the public for a private event

Allow time to explore before closing. Your ticket shows your date and entry time.

Finding the Academy

The Academy is on the Music Concourse in Golden Gate Park, across from the de Young Museum.

• By Muni: the 44 O’Shaughnessy stops in front of the Academy; the 5 Fulton, the 7 Haight and the N Judah stop within about ten minutes’ walk.
• By car: the underground Music Concourse Garage, not run by the Academy, has entrances at Fulton Street and 10th Avenue and at Music Concourse Drive and MLK Drive.
• Before arrival: leave time for the journey and entry checks so you are ready for your booked slot.

Useful stops along the way

Facilities can change through the year. Visitors can usually expect:

• Accessible restrooms on every floor.
• Same-day re-entry with a hand stamp as you leave.
• The Academy Cafe and The Terrace restaurant for meals and snacks.
• Manual wheelchairs to borrow free of charge in the lobby.

Outside food is welcome, and planetarium passes are given out in the lobby on the day. Ask staff about current arrangements when you arrive.

A visit that works for you

The Academy is fully wheelchair accessible. The main entrance is at street level, an elevator comes up from the underground garage, and ramps or alternate entrances lead to every exhibit, including the rainforest and the planetarium.

• Check arrangements for your particular mobility or access needs before travelling.
• Manual wheelchairs can be borrowed free of charge in the lobby, first come, first served; you will be asked to leave a photo ID.
• Service dogs are welcome, though a few areas, including the rainforest, are off-limits; ask Academy staff for assistance during your visit.

Enjoy the Academy thoughtfully

• Walk rather than run, and keep children with you.
• Keep to the paths in the rainforest, and leave plants and animals undisturbed.
• Segways, hoverboards and skateboards may not be ridden for fun inside the Academy; mobility devices are welcome.
• Planetarium shows may not suit children under 7, and children under 4 are not admitted.
• Follow the signs and staff guidance, including any restrictions in the exhibition spaces.

A little care helps protect the animals, the collections and the atmosphere for everyone.

Make time for a pause

The Academy Cafe and The Terrace restaurant serve meals and snacks, and outside food is welcome too.

• Stop for breakfast, lunch, a hot drink or refreshments nearby.
• Leave room in your plans to sit down and enjoy the setting.
• Check opening hours and menus on the day; food and drinks are purchased separately.

With a hand stamp you can step out into Golden Gate Park for a picnic and come back the same day.

A few details worth planning

• Book ahead: choose the date, time and places you want to visit before making other plans.
• Keep your QR ticket ready: save it on your phone or bring a printed copy, with any proof needed for reduced admission.
• Start in the right place: use the main entrance on Music Concourse Drive and follow your ticket’s instructions.
• Reserve the planetarium: scan the QR code in the lobby on arrival to choose a showtime.
• Leave space to linger: allow extra time for the aquarium, the rainforest and the living roof.