Discover the Artistic Treasures at the San Diego Museum of Art
Explore the rich collections of the San Diego Museum of Art in Balboa Park, featuring masterpieces from around the world in a stunning architectural setting.
Nestled in the picturesque Balboa Park, the San Diego Museum of Art is a cultural gem that invites tourists to explore an extensive collection of art spanning centuries. With its beautiful architecture and diverse exhibitions, it's a must-visit for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
A brief summary to The San Diego Museum of Art
- 1450 El Prado, San Diego, Balboa Park, California, 92102, US
- +1619-232-7931
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Tuesday or Thursday when the museum opens at 10 AM for a quieter experience.
- Check the museum's schedule for special exhibitions or events that might enhance your visit.
- Don't miss the outdoor sculpture garden; it's a perfect spot for relaxation and photos.
- Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the collections and their histories.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in La Jolla, head towards the La Jolla Cove. From the Cove, walk east on Coast Boulevard until you reach Girard Avenue. Turn left onto Girard Avenue and continue walking until you reach La Jolla Village Drive. Here, turn right and continue walking until you reach Torrey Pines Road. Turn left onto Torrey Pines Road and continue until you reach the entrance of the San Diego Museum of Art at 1450 El Prado, in Balboa Park. The entire walk will take approximately 1 hour and covers about 2.5 miles.
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Public Transport - Bus
From La Jolla, head to the nearest bus stop on Girard Avenue. You can take the MTS bus route 30 that goes towards Downtown San Diego. Stay on the bus until you reach the stop at 6th Ave & Spruce St. From there, transfer to the MTS bus route 7 towards SDSU. Get off at the stop closest to Balboa Park, which will be near 1450 El Prado. The total trip may take around 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Discover more about The San Diego Museum of Art
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
House of Charm
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Discover the historic House of Charm in Balboa Park, San Diego: home to art, culture, and architectural beauty, showcasing the city's rich heritage and vibrant artistic community.
Cabrillo Bridge
0.4 km
Discover the beauty and history of Cabrillo Bridge, an architectural gem in Balboa Park, San Diego, perfect for memorable walks and breathtaking views.
House of England
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Explore the House of England in San Diego's Balboa Park, a cultural gem celebrating British heritage with engaging exhibits and community events.
San Diego Zoo
0.4 km
Discover a world of wildlife and botanical wonders at the San Diego Zoo, a leading conservation organization committed to protecting endangered species and inspiring a passion for nature.
Balboa Park
0.6 km
Discover Balboa Park: A cultural paradise in San Diego with stunning gardens, historic museums, and vibrant events for every traveler.
San Diego Air & Space Museum
0.8 km
Explore the wonders of aviation and space at the San Diego Air & Space Museum, where history meets innovation in a stunning setting.
San Diego Old Fire Alarm Communications Building
1.0 km
Discover the San Diego Old Fire Alarm Communications Building, a historical landmark showcasing the evolution of fire safety in a picturesque park setting.
Marston House
1.3 km
Explore Marston House in San Diego for a captivating journey through early 20th-century architecture and rich local history amidst beautiful gardens.
Long-Waterman House
1.3 km
Explore the Long-Waterman House, a historical landmark in San Diego's Bankers Hill, where timeless architecture meets lush gardens and rich history.
Coulter House
1.4 km
Explore the historical charm of Coulter House in San Diego, a stunning landmark near the iconic Spruce Street Suspension Bridge, revealing the city's rich past.
Spruce Street Suspension Bridge
1.6 km
Discover the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge, a historic landmark in San Diego offering breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere for all visitors.
Golden Hill Fountain Grotto
1.6 km
Explore the Golden Hill Fountain Grotto, a serene historical landmark in Balboa Park, San Diego, blending stunning architecture with tranquil nature.
Amici House
1.7 km
Discover the Italian heritage of San Diego at Amici House, a cultural center that highlights the rich history and traditions of the Italian community.
Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church
1.8 km
Discover the architectural beauty and tranquil atmosphere of Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church in Downtown San Diego, a must-visit spiritual landmark.
Piazza Basilone
1.9 km
Discover the serene Piazza Basilone in downtown San Diego, a historical landmark honoring WWII hero John Basilone amidst tranquil gardens.
Unmissable attractions to see
Timken Museum of Art
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Explore the Timken Museum of Art in Balboa Park, where stunning European and American masterpieces await in a serene, free-entry setting.
ICA San Diego / Central
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Discover contemporary creativity and cultural dialogue at ICA San Diego, a vibrant art center in the heart of Balboa Park.
Plaza de Panama
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Explore the iconic Plaza de Panama at Balboa Park, a cultural and historical landmark in San Diego, filled with art, gardens, and captivating architecture.
Botanical Building
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Mingei International Museum
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Balboa Park Explorer
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Unlock San Diego's cultural heart! Explore Balboa Park's museums, gardens, and attractions with the Balboa Park Explorer pass.
1549 El Prado
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Alcázar Garden
0.2 km
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The Old Globe
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Discover the magic of theater at The Old Globe in Balboa Park, San Diego, where world-class productions meet stunning surroundings.
Casa del Rey Moro Garden
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California Tower
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Explore the California Tower in Balboa Park, a historical landmark offering stunning views and rich cultural experiences in the heart of San Diego.
Museum of Us
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Explore the Museum of Us in Balboa Park, where culture and anthropology unite to offer an immersive journey through the history of humanity.
Casa Del Prado
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Explore Spanish Colonial Revival architecture & vibrant cultural scene at Casa Del Prado in Balboa Park. A historic landmark with youth arts & gardens.
San Diego Model Railroad Museum
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Discover the intricate world of trains at the San Diego Model Railroad Museum in Balboa Park, a must-see for tourists and families alike.
San Diego History Center
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Explore San Diego's diverse past through engaging exhibits, a vast research library, and dynamic public programs in Balboa Park.
Essential places to dine
Panama 66
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Prado
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Discover the exquisite flavors of Californian cuisine at Prado in Balboa Park – where great food meets stunning scenery.
Sweet Shack
0.3 km
Discover Sweet Shack in Balboa Park: a must-visit American restaurant offering delightful dishes and a cozy atmosphere for all visitors.
Busy Bee Cafe
0.3 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Busy Bee Cafe in San Diego Zoo, offering delicious American cuisine amid thrilling wildlife adventures.
Safari Kitchen
0.3 km
Discover delicious hamburgers at Safari Kitchen in San Diego's Balboa Park – where taste meets adventure.
Albert's Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at Albert's Restaurant in San Diego Zoo—perfect for families seeking great food amid wildlife.
Sabertooth Grill
0.7 km
Experience delightful American cuisine amidst the beauty of Balboa Park at Sabertooth Grill – perfect for families and tourists alike.
Mister A's
1.0 km
Experience fine dining at its best with stunning views at Mister A's in San Diego - where American meets French cuisine.
Parc Bistro-Brasserie
1.0 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Parc Bistro-Brasserie in San Diego - your destination for delightful breakfasts, brunches, and seafood specialties.
The Balboa
1.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of San Diego at The Balboa Grill & Bar – where great food meets friendly service.
Hob Nob Hill
1.3 km
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Tobeys 19th Hole Restaurant
1.5 km
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Trust
1.6 km
Discover Trust in Hillcrest - A New American dining experience blending seasonal flavors with innovative cocktails in San Diego.
RustiCucina
1.8 km
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GlassDoor Restaurant
1.8 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors in the heart of San Diego at GlassDoor Restaurant—where delicious food meets vibrant culture.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bibliotique
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North Star Science Store
0.4 km
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United Nations International Gift Shop
0.4 km
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Panda Shop
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Arctic Trader
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Sydney's Shoppe
0.6 km
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Tusker's Trunk
0.7 km
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Rosamariposa
1.9 km
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Vitreum
1.9 km
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Stroll
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Gold Leaf
1.9 km
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Bad Madge & Co.
2.0 km
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Dream Boutique
2.3 km
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Great souvenirs of San Diego,inc.
2.4 km
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Wotown Vintage
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lady Carolyn's Pub
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The Corner Drafthouse
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Wet Stone Wine Bar & Cafe
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Whistle Stop Bar
2.0 km
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Vin de Syrah
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False Idol
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Room 56
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Gaslamp Tavern
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Trailer Park After Dark
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Star Bar
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The Tipsy Crow
2.3 km
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Noble Experiment
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Neighborhood
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Young Blood
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Whiskey Girl
2.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Whiskey Girl, a top sports bar and live music venue in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Phantom Lounge and Nightclub
2.0 km
Experience the dynamic nightlife of San Diego at Phantom Lounge and Nightclub, where great cocktails, music, and ambiance come together for an unforgettable evening.
Parq Nightclub
2.0 km
Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Parq Nightclub, where world-class DJs, exquisite cocktails, and an electrifying atmosphere await in Downtown San Diego.
Bloom Nightclub
2.1 km
Unleash your inner party animal at Bloom Nightclub, the heartbeat of San Diego's nightlife, featuring electrifying music and a chic atmosphere.
Onyx Room
2.2 km
Discover the pulse of San Diego nightlife at Onyx Room, where exquisite cocktails and electrifying music converge in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter.
F6ix
2.2 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at F6ix, a premier nightclub in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, featuring vibrant music, craft cocktails, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
TORO
2.4 km
Dive into the pulse of San Diego's nightlife at TORO, where electrifying music and vibrant energy create unforgettable nights.
The Brig
2.4 km
Discover electrifying nightlife at The Brig, the ultimate night club in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, perfect for dancing and unforgettable memories.
San Diego Club Crawl
2.4 km
Unleash your nightlife spirit with San Diego Club Crawl: an unforgettable journey through the city's vibrant bars and nightclubs.
Side Bar
2.4 km
Experience the ultimate nightlife at Side Bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, featuring live music, creative cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere.
San Diego VIP Nightlife
2.4 km
Discover the pulse of San Diego's nightlife at San Diego VIP Nightlife, where music and excitement await in downtown's vibrant setting.
NOVA SD
2.6 km
Discover the thrill of San Diego nightlife at NOVA SD, the ultimate night club experience in the lively Gaslamp Quarter.
Oxford Social Club
2.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Oxford Social Club, where elegance meets excitement in the heart of San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter.
Altitude Sky Lounge
2.7 km
Discover the breathtaking views and vibrant nightlife at Altitude Sky Lounge, San Diego's premier rooftop destination for great food and cocktails.
Sevilla Nightclub of San Diego
2.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Sevilla Nightclub, San Diego's hotspot for live music and exhilarating nightlife in the Gaslamp Quarter.
Spin Nightclub
3.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of San Diego at Spin Nightclub, where live music meets an electrifying atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
