ICA San Diego / Central: Contemporary Art in Balboa Park
Explore experimental contemporary art at ICA San Diego/Central in Balboa Park. Free admission, innovative exhibitions, and community programs.
The Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) San Diego/Central, located in Balboa Park, is a vibrant hub for experimental contemporary art from local and international artists. With a mission to 'question everything,' the ICA offers thought-provoking exhibitions, installations, and community programs. Admission is free, making art accessible to all.
A brief summary to ICA San Diego / Central
- 1439 El Prado, San Diego, Balboa Park, California, 92101, US
- +1619-236-0011
- Visit website
- Thursday 12 pm-4 pm
- Friday 12 pm-5 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-5 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-5 pm
Local tips
- Check the ICA San Diego website for current exhibitions, events, and workshops before your visit.
- Take advantage of the free admission and explore the museum's thought-provoking exhibitions.
- Combine your visit with other attractions in Balboa Park, such as the San Diego Museum of Art or the Japanese Friendship Garden.
- Utilize the free Balboa Park tram to get around the park, especially if parking is far from the museum.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Plaza de Panama in Balboa Park, walk towards the Mingei International Museum. ICA San Diego/Central is located on the left, across the street from Panama 66 restaurant at the San Diego Museum of Art.
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Public Transport
Take MTS bus route 7, 120, or Rapid 215 to a stop on Park Boulevard. From the Park Blvd & Village Pl stop, walk west towards the El Prado. Cross the bridge over Park Blvd to the El Prado promenade. ICA Central will be on the left past the Mingei Museum, across the street from Panama 66 restaurant at San Diego Museum of Art. A one-way fare is $2.50.
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Taxi
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout San Diego. Request a drop-off at the central traffic circle by the Pan American Plaza in Balboa Park. From there, walk towards the Mingei International Museum; ICA San Diego/Central is located on the left, across the street from Panama 66 restaurant at the San Diego Museum of Art. A taxi from downtown San Diego to Balboa Park typically costs $15-$19. Taxi base fee is $3.00, plus $3.32 per mile.
Discover more about ICA San Diego / Central
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.
Casa Del Prado
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Explore Casa Del Prado, a historical landmark in Balboa Park, showcasing San Diego's rich cultural heritage through art and architecture.
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.
Cabrillo Bridge
0.3 km
Discover the beauty and history of Cabrillo Bridge, an architectural gem in Balboa Park, San Diego, perfect for memorable walks and breathtaking views.
San Diego Zoo
0.5 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.
San Diego Air & Space Museum
0.6 km
Explore the wonders of aviation and space at the San Diego Air & Space Museum, where history meets innovation in a stunning setting.
Balboa Park
0.7 km
Discover Balboa Park: A cultural paradise in San Diego with stunning gardens, historic museums, and vibrant events for every traveler.
San Diego Old Fire Alarm Communications Building
0.9 km
Discover the San Diego Old Fire Alarm Communications Building, a historical landmark showcasing the evolution of fire safety in a picturesque park setting.
Long-Waterman House
1.2 km
Explore the Long-Waterman House, a historical landmark in San Diego's Bankers Hill, where timeless architecture meets lush gardens and rich history.
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.
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.
Golden Hill Fountain Grotto
1.6 km
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Spruce Street Suspension Bridge
1.6 km
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Amici House
1.6 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
1.7 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mingei International Museum
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Alcázar Garden
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Plaza de Panama
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California Tower
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The San Diego Museum of Art
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Discover the cultural heart of San Diego at The San Diego Museum of Art, showcasing a diverse collection of world-renowned art.
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.
Balboa Park Explorer
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Casa del Rey Moro Garden
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Discover a tranquil Moorish-inspired garden in Balboa Park, featuring lush greenery, soothing water features, and a serene atmosphere for relaxation.
The Old Globe
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1549 El Prado
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Explore Balboa Park's stunning architecture, lush gardens, and world-class museums in the heart of San Diego, California.
Palm Canyon Trail
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Discover the breathtaking beauty of Palm Canyon Trail, a serene hiking area in San Diego's Balboa Park, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Timken Museum of Art
0.2 km
Explore the Timken Museum of Art in Balboa Park, where stunning European and American masterpieces await in a serene, free-entry setting.
Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum
0.2 km
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Botanical Building
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Spreckels Organ Pavilion
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Essential places to dine
Panama 66
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Prado
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Sweet Shack
0.4 km
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Albert's Restaurant
0.4 km
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Busy Bee Cafe
0.4 km
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Safari Kitchen
0.4 km
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Sabertooth Grill
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Mister A's
0.9 km
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Parc Bistro-Brasserie
0.9 km
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The Balboa
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Hob Nob Hill
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Tobeys 19th Hole Restaurant
1.5 km
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GlassDoor Restaurant
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Trust
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Born and Raised
1.8 km
Discover culinary excellence at Born and Raised - San Diego's premier steakhouse offering exquisite cuts of meat in a luxurious setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bibliotique
0.0 km
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United Nations International Gift Shop
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North Star Science Store
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Arctic Trader
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Panda Shop
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Sydney's Shoppe
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Tusker's Trunk
0.8 km
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Rosamariposa
1.8 km
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Vitreum
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Stroll
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Gold Leaf
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Bad Madge & Co.
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Dream Boutique
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Great souvenirs of San Diego,inc.
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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
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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
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Noble Experiment
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Discover Noble Experiment, an upscale speakeasy bar in San Diego offering craft cocktails and a unique prohibition-era experience in a hidden setting.
Neighborhood
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Young Blood
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Whiskey Girl
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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
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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
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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
2.0 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
2.1 km
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F6ix
2.1 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
2.3 km
Dive into the pulse of San Diego's nightlife at TORO, where electrifying music and vibrant energy create unforgettable nights.
The Brig
2.3 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
2.3 km
Unleash your nightlife spirit with San Diego Club Crawl: an unforgettable journey through the city's vibrant bars and nightclubs.
Side Bar
2.3 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
2.3 km
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NOVA SD
2.5 km
Discover the thrill of San Diego nightlife at NOVA SD, the ultimate night club experience in the lively Gaslamp Quarter.
Oxford Social Club
2.5 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
2.6 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
2.6 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.
