California Academy Of Sciences

Biodiversity science and sustainability: the academy's institute for biodiversity science and sustainability ("ibss") is home to nearly 80 world-class scientists, over 100 research associates globally, and more than 500 distinguished fellows who gather new knowledge about life's diversity and the process of evolution and rapidly apply that understanding to our efforts to regenerate the natural world. Through innovative partnerships and community engagement initiatives, they also guide critical conservation decisions worldwide, inspire and mentor the next generation of scientists, and foster responsible stewardship of our planet so that humans and nature can thrive together.

Aquarium: the steinhart aquarium is home to more than 60,000 live animals representing more than 800 unique species, and its innovative exhibits include one of the largest and deepest indoor coral reefs in the world. The four-story rainforest has free-flying birds and butterflies and exotic reptiles and amphibians. In addition to delighting guests with its living creatures, the aquarium has played a critical role for decades in species survival plans for endangered animals like its charismatic colony of african penguins. For more than 25 years, the steinhart aquarium has proudly held the gold standard accreditation from the association of zoos and aquariums, a stamp of approval reserved for facilities that embody the very best in animal care and welfare, conservation, and education.

Education and outreach: the academy is an innovative leader in efforts to increase scientific and environmental literacy worldwide. The museum is home to science educators and communicators as well as highly trained docents who engage people of all ages-here in california and around the world-in the scientific concepts and issues that will shape our future. Through intensive partnerships with schools and teachers, innovative programs for all ages, engaging online learning and digital media offerings, and immersive science visualization productions, academy educators work to increase the public's understanding and appreciation of the natural world and inspire participants to take action on behalf of the rich diversity of life on earth. More than 500 volunteers help support the academy annually and provide a connection between the diverse bay area community and the academy's museum, research, and administration. As one of the bay area's leading cultural institutions dedicated to opening its doors to the entire community, the academy offers a variety of free and reduced admission opportunities and access programs to serve all visitors.

Membership: the academy's membership program provides year round access to our offerings to nearly 40,000 households. Through their monthly and annual gifts, members support the academy's mission to regenerate the natural world through science, learning, and collaboration. On average, academy members visit between two and three times a year, participating in our public programs, exploring the iconic exhibits, such as the steinhart aquarium and rainforest, attending workshops and lectures, and sharing the experience with their friends and families. A significant number of the academy's members have been a part of the academy "family" for many generations.

Admissions