How to Plan a California Academy of Sciences Wedding

Ultimate Guide to Planning a California Academy of Sciences Wedding (complete with pricing and photos)

Why a Wedding at the California Academy of Sciences

Having a California Academy of Sciences wedding is definitely one of those weddings that will offer your guests a truly unique experience, and be one that they will never forget. No entertainment is needed since the entertainment is literally all around you, for 4 floors! Your California Academy of Sciences wedding can be held in an all-in-one aquarium, planetarium, and history museum. Who else can say they have wedding photos under a tank full of sea creatures or around a T-Rex?

Located in Golden Gate Park of San Francisco, an Academy of Sciences wedding has more than just sights to offer. Your guests will have more than enough room to mingle and explore, since this location can easily accommodate thousands of guests. With its twelve unique settings, guests feel instantly encouraged to explore and appreciate all the stunning nature, art, and animals on every floor. And if you have never been to this place, read below for a few of its highlights!

california academy of sciences wedding girl looking up into an aquarium

Academy of Sciences Wedding Restrictions and Rules

Since this living museum is still open for the public during normal hours, the earliest you can have your wedding ceremony or reception is 6:30, although photos can be taken on the living roof from 5:30 – 6:30 before guests arrive. They only allow specific caterers for this venue but they have an extensive list to choose from that will definitely suit your needs. Because of the venue, a wedding planner is required. 

Academy of Sciences Wedding Cost

$15,000 – $70,000+ depending on details
Capacity: 50 – 3000+ with multiple venues rented (15 different spaces)

How to Book an Academy of Sciences Wedding

California Academy of Sciences Wedding Locations

Aquarium

This bottom level is home to thousands of live animals of all shapes and sizes, and is the most popular location with good reason. Thursday nights at the Academy include drinks, DJs, and plenty of photo opportunities around this engaging level…so you can imagine how it is on a wedding day! This is commonly where the dance party is held and who wouldn’t want to dance the night away surrounded by marine animals and neon lights! It is the most surreal party experience you can ever have!

African Hall

Skip the safari and walk amongst the African animals! Have your guests mingle in the African Hall where African Penguins will join the occasion already dressed for the event. This area is popular with people of all ages, since they can see big cats up close. As a kid, I absolutely loved this place and it was even more amazing to actually go on an African safari as an adult.

Planetarium

Relax under the stellar view of the world’s second-largest, all-digital Morrison Planetarium. This 75-foot dome introduces the astonishing visuals of scientist’s latest discoveries. Treat your guests to a special showing that people wait in line for every day! The show changes monthly so experience this presentation whenever you can. 

 Rainforest

One of the newer installations at the Academy, this humid exhibit showcases 4 levels of an interactive experience walking amongst the flying birds and butterflies. A great way to burn off a few calories so you can eat and dance some more!

What better way to have the wedding of the year with your friends and family in this breathtaking venue than having an Academy of Sciences wedding? 

What’s Included

  • Wedding ceremonies and receptions can begin as early as 6:30 pm.
  • A private, beautifully decorated wedding-ready room is available starting at 5 pm.
  • Wedding party photos can be taken on the Living Roof from 5:30-6:30 pm.
  • Ceremony walkthrough available during business hours (museum remains open).
  • Basic A/V available with options for upgrade and consultation with A/V Technician.
  • On-site security, coat check, and custodial staff.
  • Ask about unique additions like hands-on experiences, docent interactions, Behind-the-Scenes tours and more.

California Academy of Sciences Wedding Photos​

California Academy of Sciences Wedding on the Blog​

Interested In More Information? Please Fill Out the Form Below!

415 756 9335 

ianchinphotography@gmail.com

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