California Academy of Science

Over this last weekend I took a quick trip to San Francisco for an event. I had some time and had wanted to visit the 'new' Academy of Science in Golden Gate park. I say new though the center was rebuilt close to ten years ago. The old center was nice but it did look old. The new center is completely different, though they have the old material, but in new exhibits. A large part of the center is the Steinheart Aquarium.

The new aquarium is actually below the main level and part of the center is occupied by a tropical rain forest enclosure. You walk in from below and spiral your way to the top, stopping at different levels to see many butterflies and some birds, insects and frogs. Once at the top, you ride an elevator to the bottom and enter the aquarium, seeing the fish form many parts of the world.

 I have scene many of these things before in the old center, but the new displays are so good and very nice for the animals. In many cases the old displays were small and not very nice for the animals, now they can move about and have some environment at least.

The butterflies are free to fly about as are the hummingbirds. the fish have very large tanks that resemble their natural environment. It is a vast improvement over the old place, but it can be crowed during the summer months and it is a little expensive, but it is worth it to go. So next time you are in the city, stop and take a look.