Behind-the-Scenes Academy Tour

Highlights / General details

Spend an hour behind the scenes learning more about the institution’s 160-year history and what it takes to house nearly 46 million specimens.

Visit the research collections, not on view to the public, and develop an appreciation for our vast library of life, which includes amazing specimens from our ichthyology (fish), entomology (insects), and ornithology (birds) departments. From stepping out onto our living roof to examining breathtaking geology specimens in our private vault, the Academy tour is sure to show you more of the museum than you ever knew existed.

Inclusion

General Admission with Express entry into the building; 1 hour guided tour; Behind-the-Scenes Access; VIP entrance to Osher Rainforest; Express entry into the Earthquake simulator; Reserved space in the Planetarium; 10% discount in Academy dining and gift shops.

Exclusion

Transportation to and from attraction; Gratuity.

Duration

Approximately 1 hour.

Hours of operation

Available daily departing at 11:00am and 2:00pm, weekends also at 3:30pm.

Location

55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, CA 94118.

Additional Information

These are walking tours. Please wear comfortable shoes and appropriate clothing for indoor and outdoor environments. Uneven surfaces, slick spots, or inclement weather may be encountered.

Parking in Golden Gate Park can be challenging, especially on weekends and holidays. Taking public transportation or getting dropped-off is highly encouraged.

Guests are encouraged to explore the museum exhibits before or after the tour. The Behind-the-Scenes Tour does not visit all of the public exhibits.

Participant restrictions

Guests on the Behind-the-Scenes Tours must be 8 or older to participate.

Guests between the ages of 8 and 17 must be accompanied by an adult.

All Academy Tours are ADA accessible.

Policies

Cancellation: 1 day prior 100% penalty. No show 100% penalty.

Each tour is limited to 14 guests.

Tours run on schedule. Please arrive early to check-in.

Elements of the Behind-the-Scenes Tour and exhibits at the Academy are subject to change without prior notice.

There are no strollers allowed on tours.

Complete information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, will be included on your Confirmation Voucher.

**All information requested must be supplied or booking is subject to automatic cancellation**