The California Academy of Science - San Francisco

The California Academy of Science is one of the ten largest museums in the world! Temporarily housed at Howard Street until the renovations are complete in 2008 when the museum will move back to its stunning location in Golden Gate Park. Until then, 875 Howard Street is home to this amazing collection of historical artifacts and the Steinhart collection.

The California Museum of Natural Sciences was founded in 1853. The original California Academy of Sciences housed the Morrison Planetarium and the Steinhart Aquarium and was situated in the Golden Gate Park.

The Steinhart Aquarium displays over 10,000 species of marine animals. The Steinhart Aquarium opened in 1923 and has been delighting visitors ever since. It is the oldest operational aquarium in America, and even houses some species that are extinct in the wild.

The Morrison Planetarium has a special one of a kind projector and weighs over 5000 pounds! The Morrison Planetarium is also currently being renovated. The website keeps stargazers up to date with lunar developments and things to look out for until the planetarium opens again. Browse some of the academy podcasts and learn about the Lunar Calendar, Meteor Showers and Pluto.

A smaller version of the Aquarium is currently housed at Howard Street until renovations are complete in 2008. The temporary version still has lots to see and children will enjoy the touch tide pool which allows them to touch some of the marine animals on shows. The renovated Steinhart Aquarium will be complete in 2008 and promises to bring visitors an even better experience.

Visit the temporary museum and see some of the collection – or wait until the renovated site is opened in 2008. The temporary site explains how scientists are preparing for the new opening with various breeding programs.

Come and visit the Steinhart Aquarium for a fun filled afternoon of learning.