The California Academy of Sciences NightLife Plus Admission Ticket offers a rare opportunity to experience the museum after dark. With this VIP package, guests can indulge in complimentary cocktails and hors d’oeuvres while exploring exclusive exhibits. They’ll also enjoy express entry to the Osher Rainforest and a captivating planetarium show. But the real highlight? Access to the Academy’s research collections – a chance to discover stunning gemstones and prehistoric treasures hidden away from public view. It’s an evening of discovery and delight, perfect for those seeking a unique and unforgettable night out.
- Event Overview and Experience
- Inclusions and Benefits
- Meeting Point and Schedule
- Accessibility and Requirements
- Reviews and Feedback
- Highlights of the NightLife Plus Experience
- Planning Your Visit to the California Academy of Sciences
- Exploring the Academy’s Exclusive Exhibits and Collections
- The Sum Up
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Event Overview and Experience

The California Academy of Sciences NightLife Plus Admission Ticket provides visitors with a unique VIP experience at the popular Thursday NightLife event in San Francisco.
Guests can enjoy cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and a private reception. They’ll also have exclusive access to "The Vault," featuring gemstones and prehistoric treasures not open to the public.
The ticket includes express entry to the Osher Rainforest dome and a planetarium show. Visitors can explore the Academy’s research collections on a guided tour and participate in a digital scavenger hunt of the exhibits.
Inclusions and Benefits

The NightLife Plus Admission Ticket includes a host of benefits that elevate the experience.
Guests receive two complimentary cocktails and light hors d’oeuvres. They’ll also have access to a private bar in the Gems and Minerals Unearthed exhibit.
Priority entrance to the Osher Rainforest and The Shake House ensures they make the most of their time.
An exclusive guided tour of the Academy’s research collections and complimentary tickets to a planetarium show provide unique behind-the-scenes access.
A 10% discount at the Café and retail stores, plus a digital scavenger hunt, round out the perks.
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Meeting Point and Schedule
Guests will meet at the California Academy of Sciences, located at 55 Music Concourse Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118.
They should check in at the Service Kiosk Desk on the right side of the main concourse.
The NightLife Plus event runs on the following schedule:
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January 9, 2025, to April 10, 2025
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April 24, 2025, to June 26, 2025
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Operating hours: Thursdays, 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Guests are encouraged to arrive at 6 PM to maximize their time at the Academy, which closes at 10 PM.
Accessibility and Requirements

Wheelchair accessibility is provided, with wheelchairs available at the Coat Check on a first-come, first-served basis. The event is also stroller accessible and near public transportation. However, it is not recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions, as a moderate physical fitness level is required. The minimum age for admission is 21 years, and a valid picture ID is mandatory.
| Accessibility Features | Yes | No |
|———————- | — | — |
| Wheelchair Accessible | ✓ | |
| Stroller Accessible | ✓ | |
| Near Public Transport | ✓ | |
| Suitable for Seniors | | ✓ |
| Suitable for Disabilities | | ✓ |
Reviews and Feedback

Two reviews with a perfect score of 5.0 indicate the overall positive feedback on the NightLife Plus experience.
However, some guests noted administrative issues with ticketing.
Key takeaways from the reviews include:
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Suggestion to take the 6 PM tour to maximize time at the Academy, which closes at 10 PM
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Praise for the exclusive guided tour of the Academy’s research collections
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Appreciation for the private bar in the Gems and Minerals Unearthed exhibit
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Delight in the priority entrance to the Osher Rainforest and The Shake House
Highlights of the NightLife Plus Experience

The NightLife Plus experience at the California Academy of Sciences promises an evening of exclusive access and delightful discoveries.
VIP ticket holders enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in a private reception, as well as express entry to the Osher Rainforest dome and a planetarium show. They’ll also get behind-the-scenes access to the Academy’s research collections, including the Gems and Minerals Unearthed exhibit.
VIP ticket holders at the California Academy of Sciences enjoy exclusive access to cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, the Rainforest dome, and research collections.
A digital scavenger hunt encourages guests to explore the museum’s exhibits, and a 10% discount at the café and retail stores provides additional perks.
With hotel pick-up and drop-off, the NightLife Plus experience is a convenient and elevated way to experience the Academy.
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Planning Your Visit to the California Academy of Sciences
When planning your visit to the California Academy of Sciences, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the meeting point and schedule. The event runs on select Thursdays from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM, with check-in at the Service Kiosk Desk.
The Academy is wheelchair and stroller accessible, though not recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions. Visitors must be 21 or older and provide valid ID.
To make the most of your time, consider taking the 6 PM tour. The experience includes:
-
Two complimentary cocktails and light hors d’oeuvres
-
Priority entrance to the Osher Rainforest and The Shake House
-
Exclusive guided tour of the research collections
-
Complimentary planetarium show tickets
-
10% discount at the Café and retail stores
Exploring the Academy’s Exclusive Exhibits and Collections
Stepping beyond the main exhibits, NightLife Plus ticketholders gain exclusive access to the Academy’s hidden gems – from the dazzling Gems and Minerals Unearthed collection to the rarely-seen prehistoric treasures in "The Vault". Within this private reception, guests can sip cocktails and enjoy hors d’oeuvres while exploring the Academy’s research archives, guided by knowledgeable staff.
| Exclusive Experiences | Description |
| — | — |
| The Vault | Discover ancient fossils and gemstones not viewable by the public. |
| Gems and Minerals Unearthed | Admire the Academy’s premier collection of rare and precious stones. |
| Osher Rainforest | Explore the lush, tropical biodiversity of this immersive exhibit. |
| Planetarium Show | Enjoy a private viewing of the Academy’s state-of-the-art planetarium.
The Sum Up
The California Academy of Sciences NightLife Plus Admission Ticket offers a premium experience, providing exclusive access, complimentary drinks, and guided tours of the Academy’s renowned exhibits and collections. With express entry and a digital scavenger hunt, this event promises an unforgettable evening for adults aged 21 and over, immersing them in the remarkable world of science and natural history.
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