The San Diego Natural History Museum (The Nat) celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2024. A haven for those curious about paleontology, mineralogy, baleen whales, and much more, The Nat offers impressive exhibitions, workshops, lectures, school programs, and consulting services. Located near the San Diego Zoo and the Fleet Science Center, the museum plays a central role in preserving the natural history of Southern California.
Background on the San Diego Natural History Museum
The Nat’s journey began in 1874 with the establishment of the San Diego Society of Natural History. Starting small, the society hosted its very first exhibition in just one room in 1912. Thanks to funding from American philanthropist Ellen Browning Scripps, it later secured a permanent home on Balboa Park’s East Prado. Before settling there, the organization called three other buildings home, including the Nevada Building—now the site of the San Diego Zoo.
What can you do at the San Diego Natural History Museum?
The Nat offers a variety of events, including summer camps and Nat at Night, when the museum stays open until 10 p.m. every third Friday. In addition to these special events, visitors can explore both permanent and temporary exhibitions. Step into the Living Lab to encounter a Gila monster, centipedes, frogs, rattlesnakes, and more. Hidden Gems showcases an extraordinary collection of gems and minerals, while the Demonstration Lab gives visitors a chance to see scientists at work firsthand.
And for a real musical treat, explore the range of concert programs available through the popular Candlelight concert series. That’s right—these candlelit performances feature thousands of candles illuminating the culturally and historically important site for an unforgettable live music experience. Skilled musicians, such as string ensembles, perform renditions of songs by the world’s favorite artists, from Pink Floyd to Vivaldi.
1. How much are tickets for The Nat?
All-day admission to The Nat is $24 for adults, $20 for seniors (62+), students, and military (with ID), and $14 for youth (ages 3–17). Nat at Night is half the price. For free admission year-round, you can become a member. Other opportunities for free or reduced-price entry include San Diego Museum Month in February (50% off) and Residents Free Days, which take place on the first Tuesday of each month.
2. How long does the museum tour take?
There’s no set time for how long it should or does take to see everything. Some visitors spend three or four hours exploring the museum. But with all-day passes available, why not make the most of it and spend the entire day absorbing as much as possible?
3. What are the San Diego Natural History Museum’s opening hours?
The Nat is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., but on Nat at Night days, it stays open until 10 p.m. Since opening times can sometimes change, it’s a good idea to double-check the website before your visit.
How to get to the San Diego Natural History Museum?
Located in one of the most visited places in San Diego, Balboa Park, getting to The Nat is easy and it’s hard to miss. It’s accessible via the #7 bus line, with Old Town Trolley Tours of San Diego stopping outside the zoo, which is just a short walk from the museum. The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner also runs 11 daily trains between L.A. and San Diego. If you’re arriving by car, there are numerous parking lots within the park, and the north entrance is ADA accessible.
Nearby venues
Sharing Balboa Park with the San Diego Zoo, the San Diego Museum of Art, the San Diego Air & Space Museum, and the Morley Field Sports Complex, The Nat is surrounded by renowned institutions. The city itself boasts a rich mix of architectural styles, offering a lot of aesthetic variety. The Candlelight concert series takes full advantage of this, with concerts held at some of San Diego’s finest venues.