San Diego Natural History Museum

The San Diego Natural History Museum is more than just a museum—it’s a journey through time and nature.

Why Visit the San Diego Natural History Museum?

Located in the beautiful Balboa Park, the San Diego Natural History Museum or The Nat, provides a fun, engaging experience for anyone with an interest in the world around them. 

One of the distinguishing aspects of the museum is the strong emphasis on Southern California and the Baja region. With engrossing examples of wildlife, geography and ecosystems, visitors can get a valuable insight into the natural world around them, making it feel relevant and significant both globally and personally. 

Wherever you look, the museum delivers surprises that engage visitors, with everything from towering dinosaur skeletons to hands-on exploration zones. The Nat is a place for kids to play and learn, adults to engage in scientific inquiry, and families to bond and connect. The museum also has various seasonal exhibits, educational films, and interactive special events to keep every visit fresh and exciting. With exhibits displaying live animals and fossils from the Ice Age, the Natural History Museum helps us discover history and the present with a closer view. 

What to Expect at The Natural History Museum

• Exhibits:
• Fossil Mysteries: Walk through time with life-sized dinosaur replicas and ancient fossils.
• Coast to Cactus: Discover the diverse ecosystems of Southern California, from the ocean to the desert.
• Extraordinary Ideas from Ordinary People: A showcase of rare books and artifacts that shaped scientific thought.
• Special Exhibits: Rotating exhibits ensure there’s always something new to explore.
• Activities:
• Guided tours and educational programs.
• A state-of-the-art 3D theater showcasing nature documentaries.
• Hands-on activities for kids and families.
• Architecture: The museum itself is a historic landmark, with a beautiful blend of classic and modern design.

Tips for the Best Experience

1. Purchase your tickets online to skip the lines and check for any available discounts or special exhibitions that may require timed entry.
2. Start from the top floor; this helps you avoid backtracking and gives you a great overview of the museum’s layout.
3. Watch a nature documentary in the Giant Screen Theater which is already included with your ticket, providing a relaxing, immersive break.
4. The Nat frequently updates special exhibitions, check the front desk to see what’s new.
5. Make time to explore nearby Balboa Park attractions like the Fleet Science Center and the Botanical Building, all conveniently located within a short walk from the museum.
6. Visit on a weekday since they are typically less crowded, making it easier to explore the exhibits.

How to Get There

1. By Train:

Amtrak Pacific Surfliner: Offers 11 daily trains from Los Angeles to San Diego's Santa Fe Depot. From there, you can reserve bus transportation to the museum.

Coaster Commuter Rail: Provides service from Carlsbad to San Diego - Santa Fe Depot. From the depot, transfer to a local bus or trolley to reach Balboa Park.

1. By Bus: MTS Bus Route 7 runs frequently and stops at Park Blvd & Village Pl, a 3-minute walk to the museum. 
2. By car: From Interstate 5 (I-5):

Heading South: Exit at 10th Avenue, reach Park Boulevard from A street. Follow the signs directing you to Balboa Park.

Heading North: Exit at Pershing Drive/B Street and continue on Pershing Drive. Turn left onto Florida Drive, then left again onto Zoo Place, and finally another left onto Park Boulevard.

Additional Information for Travelers

1. Entrance fees: $24
2. Opening hours: 10am to 5pm
3. Average duration to explore: 1-2 hours