/Museums
Hidden Wonders, a New Exhibition of Rare Specimens from the Academy's Vast Scientific Collections
May 27 - Dec 31, 2022
Monday-Saturday: 9:30 am-5 pm Sunday: 11 am-5 pm Thursday NightLife (21+ with ID): 6-10 pm
(415) 379-8000
Event WebsiteAbout
From the microscopic to the massive, Hidden Wonders takes visitors on a tour of some of the standout specimens from the Academy’s extensive, 46-million-object scientific holdings, many of which can be safely displayed publicly for the first time thanks to the creation of the custom gallery.
Hidden Wonders: Inside the Academy’s Collections offers a look into the Academy’s vast “library of life,” an archive of objects from around the world and across the eons. With nearly 800 fascinating specimens on display, guests will learn why scientists and museums collect, and how collections are an invaluable, irreplaceable resource for conserving and regenerating the natural world.
SF/Arts Curator Insight
Two not-to-be-missed exhibits are ready for you to enjoy this summer: "Bugs," created by Te Papa Tongarewa Museum of New Zealand and Weta Work-shop, invites you to bask in the beauty of anthropods and to discover how bugs have evolved and adapted to our world, while "Hidden Wonders: Inside the Academy’s Collections" offers a fascinating look at 800 specimens from the Academy's scientific behind-the-scenes collection, some never before on view. Follow the steps to see how Sunset Moth, Chrysiridiarhipheus from "Hidden Wonders."
Luke Williams
Contributing Writer
