The California Academy of Sciences offers a unique and exclusive Thursday NightLife experience for adult guests. For just $25, visitors can explore the wonders of the aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum after dark. With limited capacity and a range of lively programs, this event provides an immersive and engaging way to experience the academy. Reservations are flexible, allowing guests to plan their visit with ease. What captivating discoveries await those who venture through the doors?
Good To Know
- The California Academy of Sciences hosts a unique 21+ Thursday NightLife event from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, featuring live music, cocktails, and themed programs.
- Admission for the Thursday NightLife event starts at $25 per person, with a "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Guests can explore the aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum, with planetarium passes available for an additional $5 each.
- The event promises an unforgettable nocturnal experience, with live DJs, performers, and the opportunity to encounter nearly 60,000 live animals, including alligator Claude.
- Attendance is limited to 9 participants per group, ensuring an exclusive and intimate experience, and last entry to the rainforest dome is at 7:30 PM.
Event Overview
The California Academy of Sciences offers a unique Thursday NightLife event, where visitors 21 and older can explore the museum’s exhibits and enjoy live music, cocktails, and nocturnal-themed programs.
Admission starts at $25, and the event runs from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM every Thursday. Capacity is limited to 9 participants per group, providing an intimate and exclusive experience.
Guests can access the aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum, encountering nearly 60,000 live animals, including the iconic alligator Claude and African penguin chicks.
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Admission Details
Admission to the Thursday NightLife event at the California Academy of Sciences starts at $25.00 per person. This 21+ only event is open every Thursday from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, featuring music, cocktails, and exhibits exploring nocturnal themes.
The event has a limited capacity of 9 participants per group.
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Visitors can reserve their tickets now and pay later, with a free cancellation option up to 24 hours in advance.
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Admission includes access to the aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum.
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Planetarium passes are available for an additional $5 each.
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All food and drink must be consumed in the Café or outdoors.
Nightlife Highlights
Though the Thursday NightLife event at the California Academy of Sciences offers much more than just admission, the nightlife highlights are truly impressive.
Visitors can enjoy live DJs and performers, each month featuring unique themes. They’ll encounter nearly 60,000 live animals, including the infamous alligator Claude and African penguin chicks.
Immersive shows in the 75-foot planetarium provide varying themes, while hands-on exhibits and diverse programs engage guests.
With access to the aquarium, rainforest, and natural history museum, the Thursday NightLife event promises an unforgettable nocturnal experience at the Academy.
Immersive Experiences
Beyond the lively nightlife, the California Academy of Sciences offers guests a wealth of immersive experiences.
Visitors can:
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Explore the captivating Rainforest Dome, filled with lush vegetation and over 1,600 live animals.
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Gaze in awe at the 75-foot planetarium, where mesmerizing shows transport them to distant galaxies.
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Encounter nearly 60,000 live animals, including the beloved alligator Claude and adorable African penguin chicks.
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Engage with hands-on exhibits and diverse programs that bring the natural world to life.
These immersive experiences create an unforgettable evening, allowing guests to connect with the wonders of science and nature.
More Great Tours NearbyBooking and Availability
How do visitors book their California Academy of Sciences admission? Visitors can reserve their tickets conveniently online.
The "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option allows them to secure their spot without paying upfront. Payment is due upon arrival. Tickets are valid for one day, and visitors can check availability for their preferred starting time.
Guests can also skip the ticket line upon arrival, making the entry process seamless. The academy offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for visitors’ plans.
Attendance Requirements
To attend the Thursday NightLife event at the California Academy of Sciences, visitors must be 21 years of age or older and present a valid photo ID.
Visitors must be 21+ and show valid ID to attend the Thursday NightLife event at the California Academy of Sciences.
Additionally:
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The last entry to the rainforest dome is at 7:30 PM, and it will be closed for maintenance from August 21, 2023, to November 17, 2023.
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Planetarium passes are required for the shows and can be purchased for $5 each.
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All food and drink must be consumed in the Café or outdoors, as they aren’t allowed inside the exhibits.
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Capacity is limited to 9 participants per group, ensuring an intimate and immersive experience.
On-Site Amenities
The California Academy of Sciences offers a variety of on-site amenities to enhance the Thursday NightLife experience. Visitors can explore the aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum exhibits, encountering nearly 60,000 live animals. Live DJs and performers provide entertainment, while immersive planetarium shows offer a unique experience. Hands-on exhibits and diverse programs are also available. To enhance the experience, a table of on-site amenities is provided:
| Amenity | Description |
| — | — |
| Aquarium | Explore the aquatic life, including alligator Claude and African penguin chicks. |
| Planetarium | Experience 75-foot immersive shows with varying themes. |
| Rainforest | Discover the lush rainforest dome (closed for maintenance from 8/21/23-11/17/23). |
Location and Additional Information
The California Academy of Sciences is located at 55 Music Concourse Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118.
For more information on themes and reservations, visit https://www.calacademy.org/nightlife.
The Thursday NightLife event has an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on 30 reviews, with a guide rating of 4/5 and value for money at 4.3/5.
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The event is a 21+ only experience, open every Thursday from 6:00 PM-10:00 PM.
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Admission starts at $25.00 per person, with capacity limited to 9 participants per group.
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Guests can enjoy access to the aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum.
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Planetarium passes are required for shows and available for $5 each.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Food and drinks cannot be brought in. All food and drink must be consumed in the Café or outdoors. Bringing outside items is not allowed during the Thursday NightLife event.
Are There Discounts for Students or Seniors?
There don’t appear to be any student or senior discounts offered for the Thursday NightLife event. The admission price is a flat $25 per person, and all attendees must be 21 or older with valid ID.
Is There a Dress Code for the Event?
There’s no strict dress code for the event, but attendees are encouraged to dress comfortably and appropriately for a casual night out. Casual attire like jeans, t-shirts, and comfortable shoes are generally acceptable.
Can I Bring Children to the Nightlife Event?
No, children are not allowed at this 21+ only event. The California Academy of Sciences Thursday NightLife is an adults-only experience featuring music, cocktails, and after-hours access to the exhibits and attractions.
Are Pets Allowed at the California Academy of Sciences?
Pets are not allowed at the California Academy of Sciences. The event is strictly for adults 21 and over, and bringing pets is not permitted. Only service animals are allowed on the premises.
The Sum Up
The California Academy of Sciences’ Thursday NightLife offers adults a unique opportunity to explore the museum’s captivating exhibits, enjoy live music, and enjoy the wonders of the aquarium, planetarium, and rainforest. With flexible reservations, limited capacity, and a range of on-site amenities, this exclusive event is a must-visit for those seeking a memorable night out in San Francisco.
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