Crowds stream to California Academy of Sciences’ reopening in Golden Gate Park

By Eileen Roche
Contributing Writer/Photographer
After five years of construction, the Academy of Sciences reopened its doors in Golden Gate Park on Saturday, Sept. 28. Some families stood in line as early as 5 a.m. for a chance to visit the new academy and its inhabitants free of admission. An estimated 35,000 people turned up for the event, but only 17,000 made it inside.

Sustainability and education were the buzzwords of the day. Mayor Newsom gave a brief speech praising architect Renzo Piano for creating “the greenest building of its kind” — one on track to earn a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design platinum certification. Executive Director Greg Farrington then invited 20 “Rock Kids”, children who participate in the museum’s educational program, to the stage for a butterfly release.

When the doors opened, members of the museum staff dressed in orange coats were waiting to provide additional information and educational facts about the exhibits. Popular spots included longtime favorites of the original buildings such as the African Hall, the Swamp (home of Claude, the albino alligator), and the aquarium, as well as new additions: Rainforests of the World, the Philippine Coral Reef, and the Living Roof.
For the many who did not make it through the front doors on opening day, the Music Concourse outside the museum featured food vendors, performers, and activities.

The Academy is open seven days a week and admission is $19.95 for students with valid ID. The museum is free to the public every third Wednesday of the month and on select weekends for San Francisco residents.

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