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San Diego Air & Space Museum

Discover the wonders of aviation and space exploration at California's official air and space museum in beautiful Balboa Park, San Diego.

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Explore the history of aviation and space exploration at the San Diego Air & Space Museum, California's official air and space museum. Located in Balboa Park, the museum features a vast collection of 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 engaging experiences 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 be challenging.
  • Consider visiting on the second Tuesday of the month for free admission if you are a San Diego County resident, student, active duty military, or a military dependent.
  • Check the museum's website for current exhibits, events, and temporary closures.
  • Allow at least 1.5 to 3 hours to fully explore the museum's exhibits.
  • Take advantage of the free Balboa Park tram to reach the museum from various parking areas.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown San Diego, take the MTS bus route 7 or Rapid 215 to Balboa Park. These routes stop on Park Boulevard, near the San Diego Zoo. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the museum. A one-way fare costs $2.50. Alternatively, take bus routes 3 or 120 to the west side of Balboa Park and walk east over the Cabrillo Bridge.

  • Walking

    If you are in downtown San Diego, you can walk to Balboa Park. The walk is approximately 2 miles and takes about 35 minutes. Enter the park on the west side via Laurel Street and walk east over the Cabrillo Bridge.

  • Ride Share

    Use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft to get to the museum. Have the driver drop you off at the central traffic circle by the Pan American Plaza. A short ride from downtown San Diego will cost approximately $9 - $12.

  • Free Tram

    During operating hours, utilize the free Balboa Park Tram. Park at Inspiration Point (Park Blvd. and Presidents Way) and take the tram to the Pan American Plaza stop, which is close to the museum. The tram runs every 10-15 minutes.

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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 in 2007, offers a journey through the history of flight and space exploration. Located in Balboa Park within the historic Ford Building , the museum boasts an impressive collection of aircraft and spacecraft, making it a must-see for aviation and military enthusiasts. The museum is divided into several galleries, each focusing on different eras and aspects of aviation. Exhibits include a full-size flying replica of Charles Lindbergh's 'Spirit of St. Louis,' the actual Apollo 9 Command Module, and the only real GPS satellite on display. Visitors can also view examples of World War I fighter aircraft, jets, and other reproductions. Interactive exhibits enhance the visitor experience, including MaxFlight simulators and a 3D/4D theater. Younger visitors will enjoy Moon Base San Diego, an interactive learning center. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, ensuring there's always something new to discover. The museum's origins trace back to 1961, with its first opening in 1963. After a fire in 1978 destroyed the original collection, the museum reopened in the Ford Building in 1980. Today, it stands as a major institution and one of the preeminent aviation museums in the nation.

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