Steinhart Aquarium

Steinhart Aquarium

The Steinhart Aquarium, located within the prestigious California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park, is one of the most biologically diverse and interactive aquariums in the world. Home to nearly 40,000 live animals representing more than 900 unique species, it offers visitors a mesmerizing journey through the planet's aquatic ecosystems. Since its original opening in 1923, the aquarium has been at the forefront of marine exploration, conservation, and education. Today, the state-of-the-art facility features breathtaking exhibits like the Philippine Coral Reef, which is one of the deepest living indoor coral reef displays globally, and the iconic Swamp habitat, home to an albino alligator. Visitors can also explore the Twilight Zone exhibit, highlighting mysterious deep-sea creatures, and the Water Planet galleries focusing on the vital connection between life and water. Designed to inspire conservation, the Steinhart Aquarium seamlessly integrates with the Academy's rainforest and natural history museum, offering an unparalleled educational experience for all ages.

Weather…

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C91011121416171718161210
Rain mm10010283421861142962138

Practical info

Getting thereEasily accessible via public transportation (Muni buses or N-Judah train) stopping near Golden Gate Park.
Best time to visitWeekday mornings are generally much less crowded compared to weekends and busy afternoons.
Good to knowThe daily penguin feeding times are highly popular, so be sure to check the daily schedule upon arrival.

Tips

FAQ

Where is the aquarium located?
It is located inside the California Academy of Sciences within Golden Gate Park in San Francisco.
Is the aquarium included in the museum admission?
Yes, a single admission ticket to the California Academy of Sciences includes the aquarium, rainforest, and natural history museum.
What are the main highlights to see?
Highlights include the Philippine Coral Reef, the albino alligator in the swamp exhibit, and the African penguin colony.
How long does it take to visit?
Expect to spend at least 2 to 3 hours to explore the aquarium alongside the rest of the Academy exhibits.

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