Accessible: Yes

The California Academy of Sciences is not just a college as the name implies. Instead, it is a hybrid of aquarium, zoo, research center, and science museum. I have been here many times and there is always something cool to see.

The aquarium on the lowest level of the Academy can rival the well known Monterey Bay Aquarium in both size and diversity. Everything from jellyfish to the world’s oldest kept fish “Methuselah” resides here. All fish are incredibly healthy and I have never seen a more active octopus than the one here.

Above the aquarium is an indoor rainforest. Birds and a great multitude of butterflies flit about freely. The humidity is high but tolerable if you don’t run hot anyway. An artificial pond separates the rainforest from the aquarium and you can see up from the aquarium into it. Tropical reptiles and bugs are also on display in the dome though in tanks. The path winds upwards touching several levels with more tanks. The higher you are in the dome, the higher the butterfly population density. The different colors are stunning and they hatch from chrysalis in the dome.

The rest of the Academy has learning stations, activities, penguins, a taxidermy safari hall, and their mascot animal Claude the albino alligator. They also have a planetarium and a living roof with native plants growing on it. A cafe is also available for visitors to enjoy for when the visit predictably runs long enough for you to want food.

Overall, a very well kept up place with many spots to rest. Elevators are also available for between floor transportation. A good place for both science and nature lovers alike. Definitely recommend visiting and will do so again myself.