California Academy of Sciences

Sarah and Molly treated us to a great day in Golden Gate Park at the newly renovated California Academy of Sciences. The entire building is "green" and unbelievably clean. Sarah has a member pass which allowed us entry and hour before opening. It was so nice to explore without the crowds and see a special penguin feeding. The kids had front row seats. The animal exhibits were amazing and they really loved the white crocodile in the swamp enclosure.

Penguin feeding

I think the kids were too young to appreciate the planetarium presentation, but the pictures were quite impressive. I loved the living garden on the roof. It is so enviromentally friendly and so beautiful.

Sarah and I- friends since 6th grade

Living Garden rooftop

The kids loved the Steinhart Aquarium on the bottom level and had fun at the hands-on tidepool exhibit and looking at the many species of sea life.

Jellyfish tank

Before heading back home, we stopped for a treat in the "green" cafe. Taylor ordered mint chip ice cream, but was shocked by the natural flavor of freshly ground mint leaves instead of the artificial mint flavors we are used to. It was disgusting and she quickly traded it in for some yummy strawberry. I'm just glad we packed our own lunches! I don't think we would have eaten the organic options on this menu.

We were so thrilled for the opportunity to see this place and loved having Sarah and Molly as our tour guides.