The 2 Best Aquariums in San Francisco

Where is the best aquarium in San Francisco located? The best aquarium in San Francisco is the Aquarium of the Bay, which is conveniently located on Pier 39 in the heart of the city. It offers stunning views of the San Francisco Bay and houses thousands of marine animals. If you are looking for a more immersive experience, you can also visit the California Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park, which features an aquarium, planetarium, and natural history museum all in one.

Some of the top attractions at the Aquarium of the Bay include the Under the Bay exhibit, where you can walk through a 300-foot-long tunnel surrounded by sharks and other marine creatures. The Touch the Bay exhibit allows visitors to interact with sea stars, rays, and sea cucumbers. At the California Academy of Sciences, don't miss the Steinhart Aquarium, which houses over 40,000 animals representing more than 900 species. The Morrison Planetarium offers breathtaking shows on astronomy and the natural world.

Both the Aquarium of the Bay and the California Academy of Sciences offer a variety of family-friendly activities and events throughout the year. From sleepovers where you can spend the night with the fishes, to guided tours and animal encounters, there is plenty to keep kids of all ages entertained. During special holidays and school breaks, the aquariums often host themed events, workshops, and demonstrations that cater to families. Be sure to check their websites for the latest schedule of events.

The Aquarium of the Bay on Pier 39 is easily accessible by public transportation. You can take Muni buses or the F-Market streetcar to get to Fisherman's Wharf, where the aquarium is located. If you prefer to drive, there is paid parking available nearby. The California Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park is also accessible by public transportation, with several bus lines serving the area. If you are driving, there is a parking garage on-site, but it can get crowded on weekends and holidays.