43 Days to the New California Academy of Sciences

September 27 is the date -- with a grand opening weekend celebration that includes free attendance on Saturday the 27th and special events on both Saturday and Sunday.

So what's been happening since the various aquatic people (i.e. fish, penguins, and others) were moved to and from Howard Street, then back to Golden Gate Park?

The New Renzo Piano Building

The Academy website has some great, interactive previews of what you can expect.

There's a photo time lapse of the building's construction as well as a video explanation of the living roof -- created with native flora.

The exhibit spaces look stunning. And you can take a virtual and visual tour with images that pop up to show each section of the floor plan. Also check out the video tour of the building showing some familiar appointments from the old Academy of Sciences.

You can also see some San Francisco Chronicle images of the penguin's new home at the Academy.

Golden Gate Park

If you're new to San Francisco and have yet to explore the byways of the park, here's an overview to get you started -- a Map of Golden Gate Park with photos and map markers pointing to attractions.

Jennifer Alpeche also has a Guide to Golden Gate Park describing some of the park's more popular destinations.

^{Pictured: New California Academy of Sciences Building
Photo © Ingrid Taylar}