20 Best Museums in San Diego, California

If you’re looking for an interesting and educational day out, San Diego’s museums are a great option. From the world-famous San Diego Zoo to the fascinating Maritime Museum, there’s something to please everyone in this city. Here are the best museums in San Diego that you won’t want to miss.

There are also many museums in San Diego that are worth visiting. So whether you’re interested in history, art, or science, you’ll be sure to find something that interests you from the top museums in town.

Best Museums in San Diego, California

If you are looking for fun and interesting galleries, zoos, and museums in San Diego, look no further than these top options.

1. San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area, and it’s easy to see why. I know it’s not your traditional “museum.” But the San Diego Zoo is so incredibly impressive that it’s part zoo and part museum.

Home to over 3,700 animals representing more than 660 species, the San Diego Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the world. Visitors can see everything from tigers and elephants to koalas and kangaroos, and there are also plenty of educational opportunities.

You can get a 1-day admission ticket or 2-day entry ticket online.

2. USS Midway Museum

If you’re looking for an unusual museum to visit in San Diego, the USS Midway Museum is definitely worth checking out.

Docked at the Navy Pier near downtown, this massive aircraft carrier was the US Navy’s longest-serving aircraft carrier in the 20th Century, and it now serves as a marine museum at the San Diego Embarcadero.

USS MIdway Museum admission includes a narration by past naval officers, which gives you an inside look at what life was like on board the ship. The former crew members on hand can share personal stories and answer any questions you might have. It’s a truly unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else.

You’ll get to see the sleeping quarters, kitchens, and engines, across 60 exhibits and even take a walk on the flight deck or test out some Navy flight simulators!

See Related: Best Museums in the US You Need to Visit

3. Maritime Museum of San Diego

If you’re interested in maritime history, the Maritime Museum of San Diego is a must-visit. Located in San Diego Bay the museum has exhibits on everything from piracy and privateering to shipwrecks and coastal exploration.

It also preserves one of the country’s largest collections of historic ships, including old-fashioned steam-powered boats, and the magnificent historic tall ship, the Star of India.

You can also learn about the history of the Star of India itself, which is the world’s oldest active sailing ship. The Maritime Museum of San Diego is a great place to learn about the rich history of sailing the sea and its impact on our world.

4. The San Diego Model Railroad Museum

The San Diego Model Railroad Museum is one of the largest model railroads in the world, complete with a working model of San Diego. This is one of the best San Diego museums for kids and for good reason.

It was first opened in 1984 and has since been home to a variety of train enthusiasts, professional railroaders, and kids looking for something new to do.

It’s easy to get lost in this museum—there are tons of trains running at once! There are also plenty of interactive displays for visitors who want to learn more about the history behind trains and how they were built.

Plus, if you’re lucky enough (or unlucky!) enough to visit during their annual Rail Fest event each June or July, you’ll see even more action on display as locomotives come alive with lights and sounds!

The best part is being able to take pictures with all these trains around you—you can pose with anything from Amtrak locomotives to steam engines straight outta Westworld. This place is a choice day out for the entire family!

See Related: Most Exotic Places in California to Visit

5. San Diego Natural History Museum

San Diego’s NAT, also known as the San Diego Natural History Museum, is popular among local children. It’s a local favorite for kids and even as they mature these exhibits bring back fond memories.

Highlights include “Al” the allosaurus cast in the hall, the second-floor search for fossils, Foucaultian Pendulum drawing skulls on the enormous chalkboard, films on the huge chalkboard, and much more.

I had the chance to visit the NAT and see the over eight million specimens they use to monitor the shifts within our region.

The San Diego Natural History Museum is a great place to learn about the changes in our environment and how they’ve affected San Diego specifically get your admission ticket now.

I would definitely recommend it to anyone interested in learning more about San Diego or natural history in general!

6. San Diego Air and Space Museum

San Diego is a beautiful city with plenty to do, and one of the best places to go is the San Diego Air and Space Museum and gawp at old airplanes.

The museum houses several historic and replica aircraft and spacecraft, as well as a Max Flight simulator that lets you take an aerial trip at full speed. You can also watch movies in Zeal Theatre or explore the museum’s exhibits on the history of aircraft travel.

The museum also features artifacts from Charles Lindbergh, the Wright brothers, and other pioneers of aviation. So if you’re interested in learning more about the history of air travel or just want to see some cool airplanes, be sure to check out the San Diego Air and Space Museum.

See Related: Best Places to Travel in Your 20s in the US

7. San Diego Museum of Art

The San Diego Museum of Art is one of the most renowned fine art museums in the world. The collection is focused on Spanish artworks, featuring Murillo, Zurbarán, Cotán, Riberá, and El Greco. Some of his most significant works are Goyas, Rubens, Matisse, Renoir, and Van Dyck.

Pieces have been discovered between 5000 BCE to 2012. All exhibit documents are available in English and Spanish.

The museum’s doors are closed daily, Monday-Friday. However, you can still get free docent visits by walking through Mays Marcy Sculpture Court and Gardens and grabbing a bite at Panama 66.

8. Birch Aquarium at Scripps

Birch Aquarium at Scripps is part of the renowned Scripps Institution of Oceanography, and it’s a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about the world’s oceans and the creatures that live in them.

With more than 60 tanks containing over 5,000 animals, Birch Aquarium explores research discoveries from Scripps oceanographers in an exciting and engaging way.

The Birch Aquarium experience is perfect for travelers of all ages who want to get up close and personal with some of the most fascinating creatures on the planet. So be sure to add Birch Aquarium to your list of things to do while you’re in San Diego – you won’t regret it!

Access other attractions in San Diego including Birch Aquarium by getting San Diego Go City All-Inclusive Pass.

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9. Mingei International Museum

The Mingei International Museum is a hidden gem in San Diego. Dedicated to the art of everyday objects, it showcases a rotating selection of exhibitions featuring traditional folk art from all over the world.

From handcrafted pottery to intricately carved wood sculptures, the Mingei International Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in global cultures and art history.

And with a convenient location in Balboa Park, it’s the perfect place to while away an afternoon while exploring all that San Diego has to offer. So next time you’re in town, be sure to add the Mingei International Museum to your list of must-see attractions.

10. Museum of Photographic Arts

If you’re a photography lover, the Museum of Photographic Arts in Balboa Park is definitely worth a visit. This national museum focuses exclusively on photography, film, and video, and houses an impressive collection of more than 5,000 photographic pictures.

You’ll also find a number of contemporary artworks on display. In addition to the exhibitions, the Joan & Irwin Jacks Theatre presents films, film premieres, and documentaries.

And if you want to do some research, the Edmund & Nancy Dubois Library has nearly 2,000 books for visitors to browse and explore. Note that the museum operates on a pay-per-admission basis.

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11. The New Children’s Museum

The New Children’s Museum in San Diego (originally located in La Jolla) is a great place to take your kids while you’re visiting the area. The museum believes in learning through play and artistic play, and they have a few different areas where children can explore and express their creativity.

The sketch aquarium is a room where children can draw fish on paper and see their faces on the screen. The wonder sound labyrinth is a room or niche where children can discover different sounds.

The New Children’s Museum is conveniently located close to popular downtown San Diego hotels, so it’s easy to include in your travel plans.

While La Jolla was a great location previously as well, this now offers a great experience for new tourists and San Diego County residents. Plus, it’s a great way to visit the San Diego area with children since they’re sure to have a blast at the museum.

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12. Fleet Science Center

The Fleet Science Center is a world-renowned science museum in Balboa Park. Featuring dozens of interactive exhibits and educational activities, the Fleet Science Center is a great place for kids and adults alike to learn about science.

One of the most popular exhibits at the Fleet Science Center is So Watt, which demonstrates how electricity can be generated here in San Diego. Children will also love exploring the textures, shapes, and motions in Children’s City, an engaging playroom designed just for them.

And for parents with infants, there are also some infant playrooms. In addition to permanent exhibits, the Fleet Science Center also hosts temporary exhibitions.

Adults are not excluded from this experience, especially during Fleet special events. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, be sure to check out the Fleet Science Center for an unforgettable experience.

13. Whaley House Museum

The Whaley House Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of San Diego. The museum is housed in what was once the city’s largest public market, and it now contains a number of exhibits from the city’s early days.

It’s also supposedly the most haunted house in the country!

You’ll learn about the city’s first mayor, its first newspaper, and even its first jail. The museum also has a number of interactive exhibits, so you can get a feel for what life was like in early San Diego.

If you’re interested in the history of California, or if you just want to learn more about the city you’re visiting, be sure to check out the Whaley House Museum.

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14. Museum of Us

San Diego is home to a number of museums devoted to different aspects of human history and culture, but the San Diego Museum of Us (formerly known as the San Diego Museum of Man) is one of the most comprehensive.

This anthropology museum covers everything from ancient civilizations to modern-day cultures, with exhibits on everything in between.

The Museum of Us is a great place to learn about the various cultures that make up the fabric of America right in the heart of Balboa Park. The museum has an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits that offer a glimpse into the lives of people from all walks of life.

The Museum of Us is also home to a number of interactive displays and galleries that are perfect for kids and adults alike.

Whether you’re interested in learning about the history of beer brewing in America or exploring mummy remains from ancient Egypt, there’s something for everyone at the Museum of Us.

There’s also a planetarium onsite, making this a great option for a rainy day. In addition to the comprehensive exhibits, the San Diego Museum of Us also offers a number of educational programs and events.

These include classes on everything from cooking to art, as well as special events like film screenings and lectures.

Whether you’re interested in learning about the history of humankind or just looking for a place to spend a rainy day, the San Diego Museum of Us is sure to have something for you.

15. Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego – Downtown

The Museum of Contemporary Art in downtown San Diego is located at 1001 Kettner Boulevard.

The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD) offers a variety of exhibitions throughout the year, including works from local artists as well as international artists who make their way out west to be featured at MCASD.

On top of this, they also host numerous events such as film screenings and performances by musicians who will blow your mind! If you’re interested in learning more about art history then check out one of their educational programs; there might even be something going on during your trip.

Visitors have raved about how much fun this museum is – aside from being able “to walk around freely” without feeling crowded like other major attractions tend to do, the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego provides an experience that is entirely different from anything else.

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16. Oceanside Museum of Art

Oceanside is about 40 minutes from San Diego proper. It’s a small town with a lot of heart, and that’s reflected in the Oceanside Museum of Art. This museum is packed with great art, ranging from modern to contemporary works.

You can expect a variety of styles and subject matter, depending on the exhibit currently on display. And if you need a break from all the indoor browsing, there’s also a lovely garden area outside where you can enjoy some peace and serenity while taking in the artwork on display.

The OMA has hosted some major shows over its history, including an exhibit honoring late painter Alice Neel in 2012 that featured more than 20 pieces of her work.

The OMA’s permanent collection has two dozen pieces by well-known artists like Andy Warhol and Mark Rothko; these are displayed throughout the galleries along with other works by artists who have been shown at OMA in the past.

17. The Water Conservation Garden at Cuyamaca College

The Water Conservation Garden at Cuyamaca College is a beautiful, peaceful oasis that’s perfect for a day trip or can be incorporated into a longer hike through the nearby trails.

The garden features an array of plants and flowers, each selected for its ability to thrive in Southern California’s dry climate. It also has several interpretive signs that explain how the garden works and how you can use it to water your own plants at home.

The Water Conservation Garden is about 30 minutes drive from downtown San Diego.

Depending on how fast/slow traffic goes along route 101 while driving north away from downtown towards Ramona/El Cajon areas via the I-15 freeway system near intersection points along Highway 52 junction point near Miramar Marine Corps Base.

See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Point Loma, San Diego

18. Cabrillo National Monument

If you’re looking for a place with a little bit of history and nature, Cabrillo National Monument is the perfect spot. This is not a formal museum as you’d expect but it’s still a great experience for history in one of San Diego’s most picturesque areas.

Located on the tip of Point Loma, this national monument commemorates Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo’s landing in 1542 and features a beautiful view overlooking San Diego Bay.

If you’d rather get your kicks by hiking than whale watching, then head over to Cabrillo National Monument.

It’s an easy hike that will lead you up to an incredible panoramic view of San Diego Bay and the Pacific Ocean. There’s also free admission given that it’s more of a monument rather than a full museum.

If you’ve got some extra time on your hands, check out their website for more information about other things to do (and places to eat) while visiting this amazing park in San Diego.

19. San Diego History Center

Found in the heart of Balboa Park, the San Diego History Center documents and displays the fascinating history of the San Diego area.

This museum is particularly well known for its extensive research library, as well as a collection of over 2.5 million photographs, documenting San Diego’s storied history.

The center is open Wednesday to Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm. Admission is free, but donations are most welcome.

The San Diego History Center also administers and operates the Junípero Serra Museum, located across town in the old historic center.

This iconic regional landmark is one of the most significant historic sites and cultural institutions in California as it is found at the site of the first permanent European settlement in what is now California.

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20. Timken Museum of Art

Didn’t get your full fix of fine art in San Diego? Worry not! The Timken Museum of Art should be able to scratch that itch.

This is another terrific museum that you can find right in the heart of Balboa Park. Although something of a small museum compared to others on this list, the Timken Museum hosts a staggering amount of classic paintings and other examples of fine art.

They currently preserve the Putnam Collection of European old masters, and examples of American and Russian art. They also host exhibits on modern and local art and jewelry, ad hold many art talks and rotating exhibitions throughout the year.

Final Thoughts

With so many great San Diego museums to choose from, you’ll definitely want to add some of these to your list when planning a trip to the crown jewel of Southern California, San Diego. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or science, there’s sure to be a museum that’s perfect for you.

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