Fleet Science Center: San Diego's Gateway to STEM
Explore over 100 interactive exhibits and immersive IMAX films at San Diego's leading science center in beautiful Balboa Park.
The Fleet Science Center in Balboa Park is San Diego's premier destination for interactive science exhibits and immersive learning experiences. Established in 1973, it features over 100 hands-on exhibits, an IMAX Dome theater, and planetarium shows, making science accessible and engaging 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 and holidays, to secure parking and avoid crowds.
- Check the Fleet's website for show schedules and special events before your visit.
- Take advantage of the free Balboa Park tram to explore other attractions in the park.
- Visit on the first Tuesday of the month for Residents' Free Day.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Bea Evenson Fountain in Balboa Park's central plaza, the Fleet Science Center is a short walk east along El Prado Drive. The entrance is clearly visible on the right.
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Public Transport
Take MTS Bus Route 7 or Rapid 215 to the Park Blvd & Space Theater Way stop. From there, it's a short walk west to the Fleet Science Center. A one-way fare is $2.50. Alternatively, take MTS routes 3 or 120 to the west side of Balboa Park and walk east over the Cabrillo Bridge.
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Driving
From I-5, exit at 10th Avenue and follow signs to Balboa Park. Turn left on A Street, then left on Park Boulevard, and finally left onto Space Theater Way to enter the Fleet's parking lot. Parking is free. During peak times, parking can be challenging, and alternative lots throughout Balboa Park may be necessary.
Discover more about Fleet Science Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
House of Charm
0.4 km
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.
Balboa Park
0.4 km
Discover Balboa Park: A cultural paradise in San Diego with stunning gardens, historic museums, and vibrant events for every traveler.
Alcázar Garden
0.4 km
Discover a tranquil Spanish-Moorish oasis in Balboa Park: Alcázar Garden's vibrant floral displays, ornate fountains, and serene atmosphere offer a captivating escape for all visitors.
California Tower
0.5 km
Discover the historic California Tower in Balboa Park, an architectural gem offering stunning views and a glimpse into San Diego's vibrant past.
Museum of Us
0.5 km
Explore the rich tapestry of human culture and history at the Museum of Us in Balboa Park, San Diego—a unique destination for curious travelers.
House of England
0.5 km
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
0.7 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.
Cabrillo Bridge
0.7 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 Air & Space Museum
0.9 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
1.2 km
Discover the San Diego Old Fire Alarm Communications Building, a historical landmark showcasing the evolution of fire safety in a picturesque park setting.
Golden Hill Fountain Grotto
1.4 km
Explore the Golden Hill Fountain Grotto, a serene historical landmark in Balboa Park, San Diego, blending stunning architecture with tranquil nature.
Marston House
1.6 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
1.6 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
1.8 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.
Amici House
1.9 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bea Evenson Fountain
0.1 km
Discover the Bea Evenson Fountain in Balboa Park, where beauty and tranquility meet in San Diego's urban oasis.
Zoro Garden
0.1 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Zoro Garden, a hidden oasis in San Diego's Balboa Park, perfect for relaxation and nature appreciation.
Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden
0.1 km
Explore the enchanting Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden in San Diego, a floral paradise perfect for relaxation and stunning photography.
Casa de Balboa
0.2 km
Discover Casa de Balboa, a stunning historical landmark in Balboa Park, showcasing San Diego's rich cultural heritage and artistic treasures.
Museum of Photographic Arts at The San Diego Museum of Art
0.2 km
Explore the Museum of Photographic Arts in San Diego, a vibrant hub of photography and multimedia art nestled within Balboa Park.
San Diego Model Railroad Museum
0.2 km
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
0.2 km
Explore San Diego's diverse past through engaging exhibits, a vast research library, and dynamic public programs in Balboa Park.
Casa Del Prado
0.2 km
Experience the historical allure of Casa Del Prado in Balboa Park, a cultural gem filled with art, architecture, and scenic beauty.
San Diego Natural History Museum
0.2 km
Discover the remarkable journey of life on Earth at the San Diego Natural History Museum, where adventure meets enlightenment.
Desert Garden
0.2 km
Explore the Desert Garden in Balboa Park, a serene oasis featuring diverse desert plants and stunning landscapes for nature lovers and photographers.
1549 El Prado
0.2 km
Explore Balboa Park's stunning architecture, lush gardens, and world-class museums in the heart of San Diego, California.
Spreckels Organ Society
0.2 km
Experience majestic outdoor concerts at the Spreckels Organ Society, featuring one of the largest pipe organs in the world in beautiful Balboa Park.
Balboa Park Explorer
0.3 km
Discover Balboa Park Explorer: A Cultural Oasis with Gardens, Museums, and History in San Diego.
Lily Pond
0.3 km
Discover tranquility at the Lily Pond in Balboa Park, a serene nature preserve filled with vibrant lilies and stunning landscapes.
Casa del Rey Moro Garden
0.3 km
Discover a tranquil Moorish-inspired garden in Balboa Park, featuring lush greenery, soothing water features, and a serene atmosphere for relaxation.
Essential places to dine
Prado
0.3 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Californian cuisine at Prado in Balboa Park – where great food meets stunning scenery.
Panama 66
0.4 km
Discover Panama 66 in Balboa Park – where American flavors meet artistic ambiance amidst stunning surroundings.
Busy Bee Cafe
0.4 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Busy Bee Cafe in San Diego Zoo, offering delicious American cuisine amid thrilling wildlife adventures.
Sweet Shack
0.5 km
Discover Sweet Shack in Balboa Park: a must-visit American restaurant offering delightful dishes and a cozy atmosphere for all visitors.
Safari Kitchen
0.5 km
Discover delicious hamburgers at Safari Kitchen in San Diego's Balboa Park – where taste meets adventure.
Albert's Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at Albert's Restaurant in San Diego Zoo—perfect for families seeking great food amid wildlife.
Sabertooth Grill
0.9 km
Experience delightful American cuisine amidst the beauty of Balboa Park at Sabertooth Grill – perfect for families and tourists alike.
Tobeys 19th Hole Restaurant
1.1 km
Discover delicious American breakfast at Tobeys 19th Hole Restaurant in Balboa Park, where quality meets affordability.
Mister A's
1.3 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
1.3 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Parc Bistro-Brasserie in San Diego - your destination for delightful breakfasts, brunches, and seafood specialties.
The Balboa
1.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of San Diego at The Balboa Grill & Bar – where great food meets friendly service.
Hob Nob Hill
1.6 km
Discover the charm of Hob Nob Hill in San Diego: where classic American comfort food meets cozy diner vibes.
Trust
1.8 km
Discover Trust in Hillcrest - A New American dining experience blending seasonal flavors with innovative cocktails in San Diego.
RustiCucina
1.9 km
Discover RustiCucina in San Diego for an authentic Italian dining experience with fresh ingredients and classic recipes.
Hodad's Downtown
1.9 km
Experience the best of San Diego’s burger scene at Hodad's Downtown – where flavor meets fun in every bite.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
North Star Science Store
0.0 km
Explore the North Star Science Store in Balboa Park, a unique gift shop filled with science-themed treasures for curious minds and adventurers.
Bibliotique
0.4 km
Explore Bibliotique in Balboa Park, San Diego for unique gifts, artisan crafts, and memorable souvenirs reflecting the local culture.
United Nations International Gift Shop
0.5 km
Explore the United Nations International Gift Shop in San Diego for unique gifts, books, and clothing that celebrate global cultures and promote peace.
Panda Shop
0.7 km
Discover unique panda-themed gifts and local crafts at the charming Panda Shop in San Diego's Balboa Park, perfect for all ages.
Sydney's Shoppe
0.8 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at Sydney's Shoppe, the charming gift shop in San Diego's iconic Balboa Park.
Arctic Trader
0.8 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs that celebrate San Diego's wildlife at Arctic Trader, located in beautiful Balboa Park.
Tusker's Trunk
1.0 km
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Gold Leaf
1.6 km
Explore Gold Leaf in South Park, San Diego - a charming gift shop offering unique home goods, children's toys, and stylish furniture for every taste.
Bad Madge & Co.
1.7 km
Explore a curated collection of vintage clothing and unique furniture at Bad Madge & Co. in San Diego's charming South Park neighborhood.
Rosamariposa
2.1 km
Explore Rosamariposa, a charming gift shop in Downtown San Diego, offering unique treasures that capture the essence of local artistry and culture.
Vitreum
2.1 km
Explore Vitreum, San Diego's unique gift shop offering locally crafted treasures and artisanal gifts that capture the city's vibrant spirit.
Stroll
2.2 km
Explore Stroll Boutique in Downtown San Diego for unique fashion and gifts that embody the coastal charm of California.
Dream Boutique
2.3 km
Explore Dream Boutique in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter for unique women's fashion, jewelry, and art that celebrates local creativity.
Wotown Vintage
2.3 km
Explore Wotown Vintage in San Diego: A unique fusion of vintage clothing, local art, and skate culture awaits you.
Wild Dove Boutique
2.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lady Carolyn's Pub
0.5 km
Experience the charm of Lady Carolyn's Pub in Balboa Park, where cozy ambiance meets delightful beverages in San Diego's cultural heart.
The Corner Drafthouse
1.3 km
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Wet Stone Wine Bar & Cafe
1.4 km
Discover the exquisite flavors and cozy ambiance at Wet Stone Wine Bar & Cafe, a San Diego dining destination for wine lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
Whistle Stop Bar
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant culture of South Park at Whistle Stop Bar, where live music meets a laid-back atmosphere in San Diego.
Vin de Syrah
2.2 km
Discover the enchanting Vin de Syrah, a premier wine bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, offering exquisite wines and an inviting atmosphere.
Room 56
2.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Room 56, San Diego's top cocktail bar, featuring innovative drinks and a stylish atmosphere.
Gaslamp Tavern
2.2 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Gaslamp Tavern, where great food and sports combine in the heart of San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter.
Trailer Park After Dark
2.2 km
Discover the quirky charm of Trailer Park After Dark, a unique bar and restaurant in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter offering creative cocktails and delicious food.
Star Bar
2.2 km
Discover the excitement of Star Bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, where karaoke and sports come together for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Noble Experiment
2.3 km
Discover Noble Experiment, an upscale speakeasy bar in San Diego offering craft cocktails and a unique prohibition-era experience in a hidden setting.
Neighborhood
2.3 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of San Diego at this dynamic gastropub, where gourmet cuisine meets a lively bar atmosphere.
Young Blood
2.3 km
Discover Young Blood, the cocktail bar in Downtown San Diego where vintage charm meets innovative mixology for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
The Tipsy Crow
2.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Tipsy Crow, a top bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, offering drinks, bites, and unforgettable memories.
False Idol
2.3 km
Discover False Idol, a tiki bar in San Diego offering exotic cocktails and an immersive island atmosphere that delights every visitor.
Whiskey Girl
2.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Whiskey Girl, a top sports bar and live music venue in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter.
