Discover the Wonders of California Academy of Sciences with a Behind-the-Scenes Tour

Are you curious about how a scientific museum works behind the scenes? Want to explore exhibits that aren't open to the public? Look no further than the California Academy of Sciences' Behind the Scenes Tour.

This tour offers a unique glimpse into the inner workings of the Academy, which is home to more than 46 million scientific specimens. During the two-hour tour, visitors can explore the museum's vast collections and interact with scientists and researchers who work there.

But don't take our word for it. According to a recent survey, 98% of tour participants said they would recommend it to a friend. And with only 12 spots available per tour, this exclusive experience is one that shouldn't be missed.

The tour includes stops in several different departments, including anthropology, entomology, ichthyology, herpetology, and ornithology. Visitors will get up close and personal with everything from fossils and bones to live insects and reptiles.

One of the highlights of the tour is the chance to see the academy's animal attic, where specimens that are too large to display in the museum are stored. Here, visitors can see everything from polar bears to giant squid.

The tour also provides an opportunity to see the work being done by scientists and researchers at the academy. Visitors can chat with experts in various fields and learn about their ongoing research projects.

But don't worry, this tour isn't just for science geeks. The behind-the-scenes tour is packed with interesting facts and stories that are sure to fascinate anyone.

For example, did you know that the academy's aquarium contains over 40,000 gallons of water, and that it takes a team of divers six hours to clean it every day? Or that the museum's rainforest dome contains over 1,000 live plants from 50 different countries?

Plus, the tour includes a stop in the skinning room, where visitors can see how specimens are prepared and preserved for research and display. It's definitely not for the squeamish, but it's a fascinating glimpse into a crucial part of scientific research.

And if all that isn't enough to convince you to book your spot on the tour, consider this: you'll also get access to a private lounge where you can enjoy snacks and refreshments before and after the tour.

So what are you waiting for? Book your spot on the California Academy of Sciences' Behind the Scenes Tour today and prepare to be amazed.

"California Academy Of Sciences Behind The Scenes Tour" ~ bbaz

Introduction

Have you ever been curious about what happens 'behind the scenes' of a world-renowned museum? You can discover this at the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco, which offers a behind-the-scenes tour that takes visitors through the fascinating work that goes into maintaining and managing the exhibits.

The Tour

The behind-the-scenes tour at the California Academy of Sciences is a unique opportunity to see the inner workings of the museum. Led by an expert guide, visitors get to go behind the exhibits and learn about the collections, research, and conservation efforts that are ongoing in the building. The tour is divided into three distinct components, including the Collections Room, the Aquarium, and the Curators' Lab.

Collections Room

The Collections Room is the first stop on the behind-the-scenes tour. This room houses the museum's extensive collection of specimens, including birds, mammals, and insects. Visitors get to explore the natural history collections and learn about how they are preserved and cared for. This room is not open to the public, so it is a truly exclusive opportunity to see some of the Academy's most special items up close.

Aquarium

The second part of the tour takes visitors to the aquarium. Here, visitors can see the inner workings of the aquarium system, including the life support systems that keep the creatures healthy. Visitors have an opportunity to see the food preparation process and learn about how the animals are fed and cared for. This portion of the tour includes a visit to the Jellyfish lab, where visitors can witness the fascinating lifecycle of these ethereal creatures.

Curators' Lab

The final part of the tour takes visitors inside the Curators' Lab, where they can meet Academy staff members. This is a chance to see scientists in action, working on important research and conservation projects. Visitors have the opportunity to ask questions and learn about the groundbreaking projects that are happening at the museum.

Why Take the Tour?

The behind-the-scenes tour at the California Academy of Sciences is a unique experience that visitors won't want to miss. This is a chance to see parts of the museum that are usually off-limits, and to learn about the important work that goes on behind the exhibits. The tour allows visitors to gain a greater understanding of the museum's mission and the work that is being done in the fields of conservation and science.Taking the tour can also help visitors appreciate the exhibits even more. Understanding the efforts that go into preserving and maintaining these specimens can give visitors a new perspective on the animals and plants they are seeing. It also provides a deeper appreciation for the museum as a whole and all the hard work that goes into creating such an amazing facility.

Tour Details

The behind-the-scenes tour takes approximately 90 minutes and is available by reservation only. Tickets cost $59 per person, and the tour is limited to 12 participants at a time. The minimum age for the tour is 10 years old, and closed-toe shoes are required. The tour is conducted in English, but accommodations can be made for non-English speakers with advance notice.

Conclusion

The behind-the-scenes tour at the California Academy of Sciences is a one-of-a-kind experience that offers visitors rare access to the museum's collections, exhibits, and staff. The tour is a must-do for anyone interested in the inner workings of museums, conservation, and science. It's an engaging and educational experience that will leave visitors with a new appreciation for the work being done at this remarkable institution.

Exploring the Wonders of the California Academy of Sciences Behind the Scenes Tour

Introduction: The Excitement of Going Behind the Scenes of a Museum

Museums are fascinating places that are full of numerous wonders. They hold intricate works of art, displays of rare artifacts, and exhibits of different cultures and times. However, there's always something magical about going behind the scenes and exploring the mystery and hidden treasures that lie beyond the public eye. That's exactly what you get with the California Academy of Sciences behind the scenes tour.

The Two Tours Compared: Aquarium Tour vs. Natural History Tour

There are two main behind-the-scenes tours available at the California Academy of Sciences - the aquarium tour and the natural history tour.The aquarium tour takes visitors to see the inner workings of the Steinhart Aquarium. It's a 2.5-hour tour that provides a glimpse into life support systems, food preparation areas, and more.On the other hand, the natural history tour takes visitors to see the hidden gems of the institution's collections in the natural history department. This tour lasts for about two hours and offers a unique view of scientific research behind the academy's collections.

The Overall Experience

Both tours provide visitors with an amazing overall experience. The tours give them unparalleled access to some of the most impressive aspects of the academy, including the museum's vast collections. Although the aquarium tour is geared more towards the technical side, visitors can gain a more complete understanding of the animals on display. Meanwhile, the natural history tour allows visitors to see how the museum's objects come to life through research, restoration, and curation.

A Closer Look at the Aquarium Tour

The aquarium tour is filled with interesting information about the fish that call the Steinhart Aquarium their home. Visitors learn about the tank systems, filtration methods used to keep them healthy and happy, and the feeding of the fish.

The Steinhart Aquarium Exhibits

The tour allows visitors to get a closer look at the aquarium's exhibits. From a colossal Pacific octopus to the mixed coral reef exhibit, the aquarium showcases a variety of marine life that is both colorful and full of different animal behaviors.

Training and Feeding of the Fish

One of the most interesting aspects of the aquarium tour is witnessing the training and feeding of fish. Visitors learn about the special diets tailored to the specific needs of the fish, such as different types of seaweed for the vegetarian animals.

A Closer Look at the Natural History Tour

Like the aquarium tour, the natural history tour is packed full with information. The natural history tour focuses on the behind-the-scenes aspects of the Academy's extensive scientific research and collections.

The Vaults and Collections

The natural history tour highlights some of the unique and rare specimens that scientists use in their research. Visitors can access a series of vaults that house a range of specimens, from exotic insects to prehistoric fossils and skeletons of large mammals that once roamed the earth.

Scientific Research and Curation

Another fascinating aspect of the natural history tour is the interactive sessions with the museum curators. Visitors can witness firsthand how the museum's specimens are researched, documented, and preserved. They also learn how researchers work together to study and classify different organisms, creating a more comprehensive understanding of the living world around us.

Final Thoughts: Which Tour is Right for You?

Ultimately, choosing between the California Academy of Sciences aquarium tour or natural history tour comes down to personal preference. If you're an animal lover who wants to learn about different marine creatures and their way of life, the aquarium tour may be best for you. However, if you're more interested in the science behind the collections and want to see how researchers work, the natural history tour might be a better fit.Regardless of the tour you select, visiting the California Academy of Sciences is an unforgettable experience that you'll never forget.

California Academy Of Sciences Behind The Scenes Tour

Introduction

If you love science and nature, California Academy of Sciences is a fantastic place to visit. This museum located in San Francisco is home to an aquarium, planetarium, and a natural history museum all under one roof. The academy also offers behind the scenes tour that will take you on a journey through the science and the people who make the museum possible.

The Tour

The behind the scenes tour at California Academy of Sciences is a 90-minute guided tour of the museum's many departments. You'll get to explore the research collections, insect zoo, aquarium, and more. Plus, you'll get to meet the scientists who work behind the scenes to make the museum possible.

Departments

The California Academy of Sciences has 12 departments, and the behind-the-scenes tour gives you access to several of them. You'll be able to visit the Departments of Anthropology, Botany, Entomology, Geology, Ichthyology, Herpetology, Library, and Vertebrate Zoology.

Research Collections

One of the highlights of the behind the scenes tour is the research collections. The museum has a vast collection of specimens from around the world, with over 46 million specimens. The researchers use these collections for their research. During the tour, you'll have the opportunity to see some of the specimens up close.

Insect Zoo

Another exciting part of the tour is the visit to the Insect Zoo. Here you'll get to see live insects from around the world, including tarantulas, cockroaches, and beetles. You can even touch some of the insects if you're brave enough.

Tips for the Tour

Here are some tips to make the most of your behind the scenes tour:

1. Wear comfortable shoes

The tour involves a lot of walking, so it is essential to wear comfortable shoes.

2. Book in advance

You must book your tickets in advance as the slots fill up fast.

3. Be on time

The tour starts promptly, so ensure you arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time.

4. No photos are allowed

Photos are not allowed during the tour. You can take pictures outside, but not during the tour.

5. Ask questions

The tour guide is a wealth of information, so don't be afraid to ask questions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the behind the scenes tour at California Academy of Sciences is an excellent opportunity to get a glimpse of how the museum operates and meet the scientists who make it possible. It is an enriching experience that is well worth the price of admission. So, book your tickets and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.

Explore the Wonders of California Academy Of Sciences Behind The Scenes Tour

California Academy Of Sciences, located in San Francisco, is one of the most popular attractions in the city and rightly so. It showcases a plethora of natural wonders from around the world, including an aquarium, planetarium, and a rainforest dome. But did you know that there's more to the academy than meets the eye?

If you're interested in exploring what goes on behind the scenes at California Academy Of Sciences, then you should definitely consider taking their Behind The Scenes Tour. During this tour, you'll get to see how the academy takes care of everything from caring for their animals to preparing exhibits to conducting research.

The tour starts in the museum lobby, where you'll meet your guide and gather with the rest of your group. From there, you'll be taken to various locations throughout the academy and given exclusive access to areas that aren't open to the public. Here are some of the highlights of the tour:

Animal Care Center

The Animal Care Center is where the academy's team of scientists and veterinarians take care of the animals that call the academy home. During the tour, you'll get to see how they feed and care for the creatures, learn about their research projects, and even get up close and personal with some of the animals.

Coral Reef

Did you know that the academy has a living coral reef exhibit? During the Behind The Scenes Tour, you'll get to see how the team maintains and cares for this delicate ecosystem. You'll learn about the importance of coral reefs and the threats they face in our changing climate.

Fossil Preparation Lab

If you're interested in paleontology, then you won't want to miss the Fossil Preparation Lab. Here, you'll get to see how scientists carefully excavate and prepare fossils for study and display. You might even get a chance to work on a fossil yourself!

Research Collections

California Academy Of Sciences houses one of the largest natural history collections in the world, with over 46 million specimens. During the tour, you'll get to see some of the most fascinating specimens up close, from rare butterflies to ancient fossils.

The Behind The Scenes Tour is a unique opportunity to learn more about the amazing work that goes on at California Academy Of Sciences. Whether you're a science buff or just looking for something different to do in San Francisco, this tour is definitely worth considering.

So what are you waiting for? Book your Behind The Scenes Tour today and get ready to explore the wonders of California Academy Of Sciences like never before!

We hope you are excited about exploring the wonders of California Academy Of Sciences in a more comprehensive way by joining the Behind The Scenes Tour. This tour offers in-depth information about the exhibits, conservation efforts, and research projects that make it an essential institution for all the nature lovers out there. Don't forget to take your camera, as the tour will provide you with the perfect shot opportunity to share memories with your family and friends. We can guarantee that your visit to California Academy Of Sciences will leave you feeling impressed, informed, and inspired.

Thank you for reading this article. We hope you found it informative. Have a great day, and don't forget to book your Behind The Scenes Tour!

People Also Ask About California Academy Of Sciences Behind The Scenes Tour

What is the California Academy of Sciences Behind the Scenes Tour?

The California Academy of Sciences Behind the Scenes Tour is an exclusive look at the academy's inner workings, beyond what visitors typically see on a regular visit. Guests will have the opportunity to learn about the scientific research taking place at the academy and get up close with some of the specimens housed in areas not frequently accessible to the public.

How do I book a tour?

Tours must be booked in advance online through the official California Academy of Sciences website. As availability may vary and tours are limited to small groups, it is recommended to book early to secure a spot.

What should I expect from the tour?

Guests can expect an immersive and educational experience led by an experienced guide who will take them behind the scenes to explore the academy's labs, collections, and research areas. The tour may include hands-on activities, special access to specimens and exhibits, and opportunities to speak directly with researchers or other academy staff members.

Is the tour appropriate for children?

While children are welcome on the tour, it is recommended for older kids (ages 8 and up) due to the advanced content and nature of the tour. Additionally, children under the age of 8 are not permitted on the tour due to safety considerations and the fragility of the specimens being handled.

What is the cost of the tour?

The California Academy of Sciences Behind the Scenes Tour costs $59 per person. This fee includes general admission to the academy for the day (a $39.95 value), making it a great value for those looking to explore more of the museum after the tour is over.

How long is the tour?

The tour lasts approximately 75 minutes and covers a variety of areas within the academy. Guests are recommended to wear comfortable shoes as the tour may require standing or walking for extended periods at a time.

Is photography allowed on the tour?

Photography is not allowed during the California Academy of Sciences Behind the Scenes Tour. This is to ensure the safety of the specimens and collections, as well as to respect the privacy of researchers and other staff members who may be working in the areas being visited.

What should I bring with me on the tour?

Guests are advised to bring a water bottle, as water fountains may not be available in all areas visited on the tour. Additionally, comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing (as some areas may be cold or warm) are recommended.

Can the tour be customized for my group?

The California Academy of Sciences Behind the Scenes Tour can be customized for private groups or events. For more information on private tours or group bookings, guests should contact the academy directly at least four weeks in advance of their desired tour date.