Among the most significant institutions of its kind, the California Academy of Sciences dates back to 1853. It was entirely rebuilt in 2008 and today attracts over a million visitors every year.

Walk through the doors of the academy and you'll get the chance to explore an aquarium, a planetarium and a natural history museum, all under one roof. Important research is also conducted here, regularly leading to extraordinary new developments in the study of human scientists, with world experts on botany, anthropology, ornithology, geology and many other disciplines operating here.

When you visit, make sure to check out the Steinhart Aquarium. Its four-storey dome was designed and built to perfectly capture the climate of the rainforest. The aquarium has been populated with more than 38,000 different species from around the globe, including African penguins, sharks and stingrays.

Next, head for the Morrison Planetarium a captivating, digital, state-of-the-art planetarium where you can admire the most complete and accurate vision of the universe anywhere in the world. In the Kimball Natural History Museum, look at exhibits brought from all across the globe that will take you on a fascinating voyage through the story of life from prehistory to modern times.

To see the aquarium and the academy properly, join one of the daily tours – information on times can be found on the website. Guides are on hand who will help you find out more about the academy. When you've explored the place in detail, head for a meal at the Academy Cafe or the Moss Room.

Lying in Golden Gate Park, you can easily reach the California Academy of Sciences by public transport, car, bike or shuttle services. Parking is available but it can fill up quickly at the weekend or on public holidays. The academy opens every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas.