California Academy of Sciences

" America is home to some of the coolest museums and educational institutions in the world, and San Francisco’s California Academy of Sciences is one of the best. The Academy’s research and public programs have been inspiring a new generation of passionate environmentalist to Explore, Explain and Sustain life on Earth.  The California Academy of Sciences has grown into one of the world’s largest natural history museums, but it all began in 1853 as a learned society. Much of the original research and exhibits are still included in the museums collection today, though it was completely rebuilt in 2008 to be 400,000 square feet.  On top of having a rotating cast of amazing exhibits, the museum is also home to some of the most iconic exhibits in the world, including the Morrison Planetarium, Kimball Natural History Museum, and the Osher Rainforest, which is a four story man made rainforest complete with plant and wildlife. The museum is also home of the Living Roof, a series of rolling hills that make up 87% of the museums roof. It’s awesome!" -Roadtrippers The California Academy of Sciences is among the largest museums of natural history in the world. The academy began in 1853 as a learned society and still carries out a large amount of original research, with exhibits and education becoming significant endeavors of the museum during the 20th century. Completely rebuilt in 2008, the building covers 400,000 square feet and is among the newest natural history museums in the United States. The primary building in Golden Gate Park reopened on September 27, 2008. One of San Francisco's most beloved destinations, the renovated Academy of Sciences is now one of the planet's greenest attractions. Explore the planetarium, multi-level rain forest and the world's deepest living coral reef tank. Don't miss the museum's living roof which is both beautiful and functional - providing insulation and generating energy for the building.  The California Academy of Sciences is a multifaceted scientific institution committed to leading-edge research, to educational outreach, and to finding new and innovative ways to engage and inspire the public.The Academy's mission - to explore, explain and protect the natural world - extends to all corners of the institution; from a research expedition in the highlands of Papua New Guinea, to a teacher training program in a California classroom, to an interactive game on the museum exhibit floor.