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San Diego Natural History Museum in San Diego, CA

1788 El Prado • San Diego, CA 92101

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A woman and a young boy look at a display of fossils behind glass in a museum exhibit. The woman points at something while the boy sits on a stool.

A man and woman take a selfie with exaggerated scared expressions in front of a large shark model inside a museum or public building.

People walk up steps toward the entrance of a large white building labeled "Natural History Museum," with banners for current exhibitions displayed on the facade.

A young boy crawls through a hollow log in a nature-themed indoor exhibit, while a girl beside him explores the display. Other children are visible in the background.

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$24.00

Total Price: $24.00 (USD)

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Overview

Step into the San Diego Natural History Museum and explore the natural wonders of SoCal and Baja. Dig into dinosaur fossils, marvel at rare gems, and see live animals up close. Enjoy interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and giant-screen films. With family-friendly programs and special events, The Nat offers an unforgettable adventure for all ages.

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Good To Know

Home to fossils, minerals, preserved wildlife, and live animals from SoCal and Baja.
Features interactive displays and educational programs.
Hosts special events and rotating exhibitions.
Family-friendly with activities for all ages; children 2 and under enter free.
Located in Balboa Park, San Diego.
Parking available next to the museum, near the Balboa Park Carousel, or at Inspiration Point with a free tram.
Food and drinks available at The Craft Taco.
Fully wheelchair accessible.

Description

Discover the San Diego Natural History Museum in an exciting new way as it undergoes a sustainable roof renovation. From September 15 through early November, admission is available at half price, making this the perfect time to explore one of Balboa Park’s most fascinating cultural treasures. While certain galleries and the theater surrounding the Atrium are temporarily closed for safety, unique behind-the-scenes pathways open up fresh perspectives and rare vantage points throughout the Museum.

Walk through captivating exhibits that bring the natural history of Southern California and Baja California to life. Fossils, rare specimens, and immersive storytelling showcase millions of years of Earth’s history while connecting science to everyday life. Guests can also engage in a broader scientific dialogue, sparking curiosity and a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

Families will find plenty to enjoy with interactive, hands-on exhibits and a dedicated play space for children ages five and under. Whether exploring with little ones or on your own, the Museum inspires curiosity for all ages while nurturing a lifelong love of learning.

Conveniently located in Balboa Park, the San Diego Natural History Museum is surrounded by lush gardens and landmarks. Parking is available near the Balboa Park Carousel or at Inspiration Point, making your visit both easy and memorable.

Promotional Images (18)

Four women pose with playful, surprised expressions in front of a large shark model while a man takes their photo in a museum setting.

Taxidermy bighorn sheep displayed on artificial rocks in a museum, with a colorful directional sign and interactive exhibit area in the background.

Dinosaur skeleton and model displays in a museum fossil exhibit room, with educational signs, fossils, and murals on the walls.

Discovering prehistoric giants in the Fossil Mysteries exhibit.

A museum display features a large whale baleen plate in a glass case, with an illustrated ocean scene of whales on the wall behind it and an informational placard to the right.

San Diego Natural History Museum is located at 1788 El Prado • San Diego, CA 92101

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Frequently Asked Questions about San Diego Natural History Museum

Where is Natural History Museum San Diego located?

The San Diego Natural History Museum is in Balboa Park at 1788 El Prado, near Park Blvd. and Village Pl., just south of the San Diego Zoo.

Is parking available on-site?

Parking is available in a lot next to its east side and in two Balboa Park Carousel lots on Village Place and Park Blvd. The San Diego Zoo lot offers additional nearby parking. For easy access to Balboa Park’s center, park at Inspiration Point Lot and take the free tram.

How long does it take to go through San Diego Natural History museum?

Allow approximately 60-90 minutes to fully immerse yourself in the 4 floors of exhibits and films in the giant screen theater.

Does the general admission ticket include the Giant Screen Theater?

Yes, films in the giant-screen theater are included with paid admission.

Is the museum suitable for children?

Yes, the museum is suitable for all ages. Children 2 and under enter for free, and guests 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Can I bring my stroller to the museum?

Yes, strollers are allowed inside the museum. However, on Resident Free Days, strollers are not permitted indoors and must be parked in the designated area outside the north entrance near the Moreton Bay Fig tree.

Is the museum wheelchair accessible?

The north fig tree entrance to the Museum is accessible. There are six accessible parking spaces in the Natural History Museum parking lot which is located on the east side of the Museum at Village Place and Park Boulevard (to your left off Village Place). There are also four accessible parking spaces in the South Carousel parking lot adjacent to the museum parking lot. The handicap access ramps are located at the northwest corner and the southwest corners of the Museum.

Are wheelchairs available for rent on-site?

Complimentary wheelchairs are available. Request one at the Visitor Services Desk upon entry for use during your visit.

Are pets allowed inside the museum?

No, only ADA-defined service dogs are allowed. They must be on a non-retractable physical leash, less than 6 feet in length. Each visitor may only have one service dog.

Does the museum offer assistive listening devices?

Yes, you can request the infrared listening device headsets at the north entrance Visitor Services Desk. The Assistive Listening System is available for lectures and films in the Charmaine and Maurice Kaplan Theater.

Is there a place to buy food and drinks at the museum?

Yes, The Craft Taco, located in the main Atrium near the north entrance, offers made-to-order tacos, burritos, and bowls with signature blue corn tortillas. They also serve coffee, specialty drinks, and grab-and-go options like pollo asado bowls and torta sandwiches.