The California Academy of Sciences is a fantastic place to spend a day or just a few hours. Luckily enough while my Nieces and Nephew were visiting there was a free day. We woke early to stand in a very long line that snaked through Golden Gate park. We thought we wouldn't get in but once the doors opened the line moved fast. It was so worth not having to pay $24 a piece.
Claude the albino alligator. He is the mascot and most likely would have been killed in the wild. We lucked out and saw him move if only a few feet. I guess he is quite sedentary.
We had a fabulous time watching the penguins, staring at Claude, getting lost in the Aquarium, and gazing at the butterflies. I am so glad we braved the line and woke oh so very early.