California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco

Where else can you see an albino alligator?

My oldest son’s fascination with the albino alligator caused us to journey back to see it several times during the day. (It helped it was located next to the bathrooms.) Once when we approached, a docent was conducting an information session about the swamp habitat which contained the alligator. We listened, asked questions, and learned.

My youngest son delighted in seeing the penguin exhibit. Perhaps what intrigued him the most was their activity -they dove, swam, and waddled around. They seemed interested in us as we gawked at their behavior, laughing and pointing. The more we smiled and enjoyed the penguins, the more they seemed to enjoy us.

We also attended a question and answer session about the penguins. Being a former teacher, not only was I impressed with the give and take of the session, the audience sat on the floor inside a designated blue square so everyone could see. Genius!

We brought our own snacks and ate lunch in the interior cafe. It was pricey, but they had healthy choices for everyone. Interestingly, the most difficult part of the meal was finding a place to sit. There were not many tables, considering the number of guests which can be accommodated in the space, and the tables were tiny. We juggled our plates and even combined food to make room, so it is definitely designed to dine-and-dash. Lingering is not encouraged.

If you are trying to save a bit of money, pack a picnic lunch and take a break from the Academy by eating your own meal outside, in front of the building. You can take in this area of Golden Gate Park and then explore more of the attractions inside.

As we slowly walked back to our car at the end of the day, all seven members of my family shared our favorite experiences. What’s terrific? We all had a different favorite part. What’s even more terrific? As we listened to each explanation of our memorable moments, we relived all we had just experienced together and agreed each moment was, indeed, special. Isn’t that what you want from a family outing? Something for everyone and something to remember. You will get all of these things and more at the California Academy of Sciences. Enjoy!

When Eileen isn’t on amazing adventures with her family or thinking up wacky nicknames for everyone, she is working as the Chief Mom Connector here at Mom Central and writing about her family antics on her own blog at calandroclan.com.

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Disclosure: This blog post was not sponsored by the California Academy of Sciences. Eileen just went there with her family and wanted to share the experience with you.

Eileen Calandro