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San Diego Air & Space Museum: A Journey Through Flight

Discover aviation history at the San Diego Air & Space Museum, home to iconic aircraft, spacecraft, and interactive exhibits in Balboa Park.

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Explore the history of aviation and space exploration at the San Diego Air & Space Museum in Balboa Park. See historic aircraft and spacecraft, including a replica of the 'Spirit of St. Louis' and the Apollo 9 Command Module. Interactive exhibits and a 3D/4D theater offer an engaging experience for all ages.

A brief summary to San Diego Air & Space Museum

  • Monday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, as parking in Balboa Park can fill up quickly.
  • Consider visiting on the second Tuesday of the month for free admission if you are a San Diego County resident (excluding December and January).
  • Check the museum's calendar for special events, rotating exhibits, and monthly specials.
  • Allow at least 1.5 to 3 hours to fully explore the museum's exhibits and interactive displays.
  • Take advantage of the free parking available in front and behind the museum.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown San Diego, take the MTS Bus Route 7 or Rapid 215 to the Park Blvd & Presidents Way stop. The museum is a short walk from the bus stop. A single ride on the bus costs $2.50.

  • Walking

    From the San Diego Convention Center, the museum is approximately a 2.2-mile walk. Head north on Park Blvd to President's Way in Balboa Park. Follow President's Way until it ends at a stop sign. Go through the stop sign and turn left to find the museum.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From the San Diego Convention Center, a taxi or ride-share to the museum takes about 5 minutes and costs approximately $15-$18. The address is 2001 Pan American Plaza, San Diego, CA 92101.

  • Driving

    From Interstate 5, take the Park Blvd exit. Turn left onto Park Blvd, then left at the first light onto President's Way. Follow President's Way to the stop sign, proceed through it, and turn left. The museum will be at the end of the cul-de-sac. Free parking is available in the lots in front of and behind the museum. Parking is often limited during peak season.

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Discover more about San Diego Air & Space Museum

The San Diego Air & Space Museum, designated as California's official air and space museum, offers an immersive journey through the history of flight and space exploration. Located in Balboa Park's historic Ford Building, constructed for the 1935 California Pacific International Exposition, the museum boasts an impressive collection of aircraft and spacecraft. The museum is divided into several galleries, each focusing on a different era of aviation. The Theodore Gildred Rotunda features a flying replica of Charles Lindbergh's 'Spirit of St. Louis' and the Apollo 9 Command Module. Other galleries include the World War I Gallery, the Golden Age of Flight Gallery, the World War II Gallery, and the Modern Jet & Space Age Gallery. Exhibits highlight San Diego's contributions to aviation history, including the construction of the Catalina flying boat and the 'Spirit of St. Louis'. Visitors can also enjoy interactive exhibits, flight simulators, and the 3D/4D Zable Theater. The museum hosts special events and educational programs throughout the year, including rotating exhibits like 'Above and Beyond' and 'Moon Base San Diego'. The International Aerospace Hall of Fame is also part of the museum. The museum's mission is to preserve, inspire, educate, and celebrate aviation and space flight history.

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