We went to the members' pre-opening of the California Academy of Sciences and think that visitors will very much enjoy the exhibits at the academy. The architecture alone is worth seeing - see the website of the Academy to get an appreciation. Kids (and parents) enjoyed the T Rex skeleton, a great whale skeleton and several marine exhibits. There is a swamp and an African wildlife exhibit to name a few. Our son's favorite though was the two heads snake - I guess my favorite too. The Academy within a mile from the house so about a 15-20 minute walk or very short drive.