Fleet Science Center: San Diego's Interactive STEM Hub
Explore over 100 interactive exhibits and an IMAX Dome theater at San Diego's top science destination in beautiful Balboa Park.
The Fleet Science Center in Balboa Park is San Diego's premier destination for hands-on science learning. Established in 1973, it was the first science museum to combine interactive exhibits with a planetarium and an IMAX Dome theater. With over 100 exhibits, an IMAX Dome theater, and planetarium shows, the Fleet offers an engaging experience for all ages.
A brief summary to Fleet Science Center
- 1875 El Prado, San Diego, Balboa Park, California, 92101, US
- +1619-238-1233
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, to find parking in Balboa Park.
- Take advantage of the free Balboa Park tram from the Inspiration Point parking lot.
- San Diego County residents get free admission on the first Tuesday of each month.
- Check the Fleet's website for showtimes and special events.
- Consider purchasing a membership for unlimited admission and other benefits.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown San Diego, the Fleet Science Center is accessible via the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS). Several bus routes, including routes 7 and Rapid 215, stop near Balboa Park. From the City College Trolley Station, take the 7 or 215 bus heading north. The 7 bus will stop at Park Blvd and President's Way, Park Blvd and Village Place, and Park Blvd and Zoo Place. The 215 bus will stop at Park Blvd and Zoo Place. A one-way fare costs $2.50 and is valid for two hours with unlimited transfers using the PRONTO app.
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Walking
From the center of Balboa Park, near the Bea Evenson Fountain, head east along El Prado. The Fleet Science Center is located at the end of El Prado, adjacent to the fountain. The walk is approximately 5 minutes and is mostly flat.
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Driving
The Fleet Science Center is located at 1875 El Prado in Balboa Park. From I-5, exit at 10th Avenue and turn left on A Street, then left on Park Boulevard, and finally left on Space Theater Way. From Highway 163, take the Park Boulevard exit and turn left on Park Boulevard, then left on Space Theater Way. Parking in Balboa Park is free, with several lots available. The closest parking is in the Fleet Science Center lot on Space Theater Way, but it fills up quickly. Additional parking is available in the Inspiration Point lot on the east side of Park Boulevard, with a free tram to the park's central attractions.
