California Academy of Sciences

California Academy of Sciences is a spectacular display of science from every angle. Bundle up everything you learned in every science class and that’s what they offer, and more. I have have loved the African dioramas ever since I was a toddler. The taxidermy and replicated African settings are just perfect. They are also focusing on saving species from extinction.

The upstairs mineral exhibit will amaze you with 400 specimens including raw copper, gold, azurite, silver, crystals, titanium, and precious gems.

They have their own first-class aquarium, dinosaur bones, giant shark teeth, and an albino alligator. Their tropical “walk-in rain forest” keeps a constant humid temperature amid the swarms of butterflies. Learn about redwood forests, human development, the universe, and the future of the planet.

The “planetarium theater” at the California Academy of Sciences is one of their best shows, but you must get there when the doors open to reserve a first come first served limited seat. The learning opportunities are endless, the exhibits are first class, and the information you gather at this attraction will even impress the advanced science student.

Give yourself three hours if you move quickly, but most of the day if you want to delve deeper into the exhibits. Be sure to visit the nearby Botanical Garden.