A new adventure unfolds every Thursday night from 6–10 pm.

  • Fanciful illustration of NightLife guests and Academy animals by artist Lydia Ortiz
    Illustration by Lydia Ortiz
  • Trex
    Photo by Tim Williamson
  • coral reef
    Photo by Milan Bhatt
  • Rainforest
    Photo by Tim Williamson
  • Hot Flash Heat Wave
    Photo By John Hartsfield
  • Amazon exhibit
    Photo by Milan Bhatt
  • Project Lab
    Photo by Jason Mongue
  • live painting
    Photo by Jason Mongue
  • See science differently at NightLife, every Thursday at the Academy from 6-10 pm. For adults 21 and up.
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Plan ahead and save! Buy online at least one day in advance to lock in the lowest price on NightLife tickets.  For more information, see our Plan-Ahead Pricing FAQ.

NightLife is 21+ with ID. Last entry to rainforest dome is at 7:45 pm. Planetarium passes available for purchase online.

Buy Tickets

Enjoy music, creatures, and cocktails and a thought-provoking new theme every Thursday night. NightLife is your ticket to the nocturnal side of the Academy. For adults 21+ with ID.

Upcoming Events

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FURY
NightLife Presents: FURY
September 26th at 6:00 pm

NightLife breaks the mold with a special presentation of FURY, a multimedia concert experience.

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sharks
Sharktoberfest NightLife
October 3rd at 6:00 pm

Toothy sharks and thirsty humans unite for a salute to brews with an aquatic twist!

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Nick Hakim
NightLife LIVE: Nick Hakim
October 10th at 6:00 pm

Nick Hakim performs at our final installment of NightLife LIVE 2019, co-presented by Noise Pop.

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seismic
Seismic NightLife
October 17th at 6:00 pm

On the 30th anniversary of the Loma Prieta earthquake, we’re digging back into seismic matters and ‘80s culture.

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cyberspace
Cyberspace NightLife
October 24th at 6:00 pm

This week at NightLife, we’re exploring the many sides of the internet: the good, the bad, and the meme-worthy.

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Heklina
Creatures of the NightLife
October 31st at 6:00 pm

Come in costume for NightLife’s annual Halloween bash! See a spooktacular drag show with Heklina + more.

More To Explore
A group of guests looking at the California Coast exhibit
The Hive

Join the newest membership group for people in their 20s and 30s. Hive members enjoy a NightLife Season Pass.

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Visitors explore the Living Roof during NightLife.
NightLife VIP Tours

Brighten up your evening with a private reception, 2 free drinks, light bites, discounts, and an Academy tour.

NightLife LIVE 2019
NightLife LIVE

The Academy transforms into an oasis of live music and art one Thursday per month from July to October.

Food & Drink NightLife

Food & Drink

A variety of food options are available at NightLife from 6-9:30 pm, including the Academy Café, and Academy Food Cart located in the front lobby.

Enjoy a new seasonal "craft on draft" cocktail at each NightLife bar, designed by resident mixologist Shane McKnight. Plus, enjoy a weekly menu of beer, wine, and spirits.

Join the Hive (NightLife RR, V2)

Join The Hive

Interested in a NightLife season pass? Join the Hive—the Academy's excluive membership for ages 21-40. Perks include a ticket to Party After Dark, and more!

Learn More

Connect With NightLife
#CASNightLife