California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco

The California Academy of Sciences has undergone a complete makeover. Located in Golden Gate Park, the California Academy of Sciences is one of the greenest buildings in the city and has a platinum certification from the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. The museum features the newly renovated and expanded Steinhart Aquarium, complete with the beloved hands-on tide pool and the well-known alligator swamp. Other exciting features are the Morrison Planetarium, the new, four-story rainforest dome, and the Hall of African Mammals, a beloved exhibit preserved from the old Academy. In addition to these educational gems, the museum features other natural history exhibits as well as exhibits about global warming. The Academy Cafe offers international cuisine, while the elegant Moss Room restaurant is the only dining option available in the park past museum closing time. Don't miss Thursday nights in Spring and Summer when the Academy hosts Nightlife, with special lecturers, DJs, cocktails, and mingling for the 21 and up crowd.