Is the Hammon Tower observation deck at the de Young Museum free to use? I'd like to know the specific way to get to the observation deck.

Yes, unlike the museum's exhibitions, the Hammon Tower observation deck at the de Young Museum is free and open to everyone. To get there, enter the museum, follow the 'Elevators to Tower Observation Level' sign to the right and proceed inwards, then take the elevator up to the 9th floor.

What are the daily operating hours for the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco?

The California Academy of Sciences operates from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Saturday. On Sundays, the operating hours are different, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, so it's good to keep this in mind when planning your visit.

What facilities are housed together in one building at the California Academy of Sciences?

The California Academy of Sciences is the world's largest natural history museum, bringing together a natural history museum, an aquarium, a planetarium, and a sub-tropical greenhouse all under one roof. Inside, you'll find a rainforest dome recreating a tropical rainforest, a large aquarium, and a planetarium theater, among other attractions.

What are the distinctive features of the de Young Museum's exterior, and is there a place to eat after visiting the observation deck?

The de Young Museum is encased in copper panels, which gives it a distinctive appearance where the color changes depending on the angle of the sunlight. After visiting the observation deck, you can enjoy a simple meal at the de Young Café located on the first floor.

SF Big Bus Tour: California Academy & de Young Museum

Loading...

SF Big Bus Tour: California Academy & de Young Museum | TRVLOGUE

San Francisco Big Bus Tour with California Academy of Sciences and de Young Museum

Your San Francisco Adventure

Big Bus Tour ep.04: de Young Museum & California Academy of Sciences

Photos/Text © Minimanimu

Hey there, fellow travelers!

It's Mini, your guide to uncovering the best of the American West.

In our last installment, we explored San Francisco's must-see spots on the Big Bus Tour ep.03, featuring the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and lively Pier 39.

Today, we're kicking off day two of our Big Bus adventure with two incredible destinations: the California Academy of Sciences and the de Young Museum!

Table of Contents

California Academy of Sciences

de Young Museum

California Academy of Sciences

📍50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118 USA

⏰Hours

Monday - Saturday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Sunday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM

📍 California Academy of Sciences
55 Music Concourse Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118 USA

Nestled within Golden Gate Park, the California Academy of Sciences is one of the world's largest natural history museums.

It's an absolute marvel, housing a natural history museum, an aquarium, a planetarium, and a tropical rainforest all under one magnificent roof.

Exterior of California Academy of Sciences with its unique architecture

Inside, you'll find the stunning Rainforest Dome, a massive aquarium teeming with marine life, and an immersive planetarium. It's truly a hit with visitors of all ages, from kids to adults!

Lush greenery of the Living Roof at California Academy of Sciences

A standout feature is the Living Roof, an impressive plant-covered expanse that blankets the entire building. It's not just beautiful; it's an incredible example of sustainable architecture.

Close-up view of the Living Roof with diverse plants

While I only got to admire the exterior this time, a return trip to San Francisco would definitely include a dedicated visit here, allowing plenty of time to explore everything Golden Gate Park has to offer.

Entrance to California Academy of Sciences from Golden Gate Park

Another angle of the California Academy of Sciences building

de Young Museum

📍50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118 USA

⏰Hours

Tuesday - Sunday: 9:30 AM - 5:15 PM

📍 de Young Museum
50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118 USA

The de Young Museum is a cornerstone of Golden Gate Park's cultural scene, renowned for its extensive collections of American art and contemporary works, alongside a diverse range of rotating exhibitions.

Exterior view of the de Young Museum with its unique copper facade

Its striking exterior, clad in copper panels, shifts in color depending on the angle of the sunlight, making it a captivating sight from every perspective.

Architectural detail of the de Young Museum's copper panels

While exhibition viewing requires a ticket, the Hammon Tower observation deck is absolutely free and open to everyone! From the top, you'll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of Golden Gate Park and the San Francisco cityscape – it's an experience that consistently earns high praise from visitors.

Panoramic view of Golden Gate Park from de Young Museum observation deck

San Francisco city skyline from the de Young Museum tower

View of surrounding trees and park from de Young Museum observation deck

Closer view of the San Francisco cityscape from the de Young Museum

Another perspective of the Golden Gate Park from the observation tower

💡How to Reach the Observation Deck

Enter the de Young Museum and head to your right.

Sign pointing to elevators to tower observation level

Follow the sign for 'Elevators to Tower Observation Level' deeper inside.

Hallway leading to the elevators for the de Young Museum tower

Further down the hallway towards the elevators

Take the elevator up to the 9th floor.

Inside the elevator showing the floor buttons

Elevator door opening to the observation deck level

After soaking in the views from the observation deck, head back down to the first floor to the de Young Cafe, where you can grab a light meal or a refreshing drink.

Interior of the de Young Cafe with seating

Food and drink options at the de Young Cafe

➡️de Young Museum Admission Tickets ⬅️

Both the California Academy of Sciences and the de Young Museum are easily accessible and highly recommended stops if you're utilizing the convenient Big Bus Tour.

Golden Gate Park itself is vast and beautifully maintained, so I highly recommend dedicating at least half a day to leisurely explore these gems and the surrounding park!

Stay tuned for the next installment, where we'll continue our Big Bus Tour Day 2 adventure!

➡️Book Your Big Bus Tour ⬅️

🔎More San Francisco Adventures:

San Francisco Must-Visit Spots: Big Bus Tour ep.3 Golden Gate Bridge & Pier 39