Interested in a Tour for your Group?
Please complete this form if you're interested in booking a tour for a large group and we'll follow up with you.
COVID-19: For the latest vaccination and mask requirements, please click here.
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We look forward to seeing you on a VIP Tour soon. For ticket reservations, health and safety details, exhibit updates, and FAQs, please visit our reopening page.
Book a VIP Tour
Public guests, please note that you'll need to purchase a timed-entry Daytime Admission ticket as well as a VIP Tour ticket. Visit our Buy Tickets page to purchase your admission ticket, then add VIP Tour tickets to your order after selecting a visit date and time. (If you already have a Daytime Admission ticket, you can purchase a standalone VIP Tour ticket here.)
Members and donors, please reserve your free timed-entry admission tickets before returning to this page to book your VIP Tour tickets in a separate order. Please note that you will need to log in for each transaction.
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About the tour
Explore the secrets of the Academy as you spend 1-hour behind the scenes learning more about how the museum works—and what it takes to house nearly 46 million specimens.
On your tour, you'll visit our scientific research collections, step into our dazzling gem and mineral vault—not on view to the public!—and make your way up to our Living Roof, where you’ll learn how Academy science is changing the world. Tours are limited to 12 total guests. (Please note: Tour includes stairs and unpaved paths.) Members, your discount will be applied after login.
What’s included:
- 1-hour guided tour
- Behind-the-scenes access
- VIP express entrance to Osher Rainforest and Shake House earthquake simulator
- Reserved space in the planetarium
- 10% off shopping and dining
Please note: A Daytime Admission ticket is required for public entry into the museum and to attend a tour. Guests must be age 8 or older to participate, and guests between the ages of 8 and 17 must be accompanied by an adult. Masks and physical distancing are required at all times.
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Tour FAQ
How do I check in?
When you get to the Academy, please check in with your VIP Tour guide at the Tour Cart located in the Front Lobby 5 minutes before your scheduled tour time.
What if I'm running late?
Tours run on schedule, so please arrive early to check in and meet your guide at the tour cart. Refunds will not be given to no-shows or guests who arrive after the tour has departed.
Are VIP Tours accessible?
Please email us at specialtyprograms@calacademy.org or call us at 415-379-5854 to inquire about accessible tour options.
Service dogs are welcome at the Academy if providing assistance to individuals with disabilities, but a small number of areas, including the rainforest, research collections, and back-of-house, do remain off-limits. If you plan on bringing your service dog to the Academy or would like additional information, please call our Contact Center at 415-379-8000 and press 0 to speak with a representative.
What else should I know about VIP Tours?
Comfortable shoes and clothing appropriate for indoor and outdoor environments are strongly recommended. Please note that open food and beverages, including gum and candy, are prohibited on the tour, as is flash photography and video.
How can I make my tour private?
Our team would be happy to assist you in booking a private VIP Tour. Please email us at specialtyprograms@calacademy.org or call us at 415-379-5854 to learn more.
Can I bring a large group on a tour?
For your safety, tours are limited to 12 total guests at this time.
Birthdays at the Academy are wild! Celebrate with a party room, cupcakes, priority exhibit access, and more.
Sleepovers are back! Treat your family to a night at the museum and curl up next to your favorite creatures.
Live a little at NightLife! Enjoy two free drinks, a tour, and VIP access, plus a snack and sweet discounts.
Contact us
Have questions about specialty programs at the Academy? We're here to help.
(415) 379-5854