4 Nightlife in San Francisco, Compared

1.California Academy of Sciences NightLife Admission Ticket

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 50 reviews · 4 hours (approx.) · from $25Our pick

Enter the California Academy of Sciences after hours on Thursday, from 6 to 10 pm, for exhibits, changing music and a weekly science theme. See Claude the albino alligator, African penguins and the four-story rainforest, then try the Morrison Planetarium if you reserve a separate $5 pass. Admission is for ages 21 and over, with physical photo ID required.

“Really fun! Plan what you want to see in advance and go for the most popular things first e.g Rainforest and Earthquake sim. Music wasn't to my taste at all but other than that a great evening!”

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2.Ghosts, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 37 reviews · 2 hours · from $30

Join an English-speaking guide at 6:00 p.m. for a two-hour walk past eight haunted sites, with stops at four bars, including High Horse and the Gold Rush shipwreck-built Old Ship Saloon. Hear stories about Jayne Mansfield, Chinatown, and San Francisco’s darker past. Guides have included Mike, Taylor, and Ben. Drinks cost extra.

“Taylor was a great tour guide and storyteller! Sadly turned out to be a solo tour but great company overall. Thanks Taylor!”

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3.California Academy of Sciences Thursday NightLife Admission

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 · 33 reviews · from $25

Visit the California Academy of Sciences on Thursday from 6 to 10 PM for a 21+ evening of aquarium, rainforest, and natural history exhibits with DJs, performers, and drinks for purchase. Planetarium shows require a separate $5 pass, and rainforest entry ends at 7:30 PM.

“We thought it was okay, but we can't recommend it.”

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4.SF Pub Crawl and Clubbing Experience

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 · 24 reviews · from $17Best value

Spend 3.5 hours with an English-speaking host visiting four bars and clubs around Nob Hill and Union Square. The Friday and Saturday crawl includes admission, drink deals, free shots, and express security entry to a nightclub. Bring ID, arrive on time, and dress to meet the club’s rules.

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