Discover the Artistic Treasures of Mingei International Museum
Explore the rich tapestry of global folk art and design at the Mingei International Museum in Balboa Park, San Diego.
Nestled in the heart of Balboa Park, the Mingei International Museum invites tourists to explore a stunning collection of folk art, craft, and design from around the globe. With its vibrant exhibitions and beautiful setting, it's a must-visit for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
A brief summary to Mingei International Museum
- Balboa Park, Plaza de Panama, 1439 El Prado, San Diego, Balboa Park, CA, 92101, US
- +1619-239-0003
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-8 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a Tuesday or Wednesday to enjoy fewer crowds and a more intimate experience.
- Check the museum’s website for special exhibitions and events during your visit.
- Consider purchasing a combined ticket for other nearby Balboa Park attractions for better savings.
- Don’t miss the museum shop for unique handcrafted items that make great souvenirs.
Getting There
-
Public Bus
From downtown Tijuana, walk to the nearest bus stop at Avenida Revolución. Take bus route 2 (or 3) towards the border. After crossing the border into the United States, get off at the San Diego stop on Broadway. From there, walk towards the Santa Fe Depot and catch the MTS Trolley Line. Take the Green Line toward Santee Town Center and get off at the 'City College' station. Transfer to the Blue Line towards 'America Plaza' and get off at 'Little Italy'. Walk to the bus stop at India St & W Ash St and take bus route 7 towards 'Balboa Park'. It will drop you off near the park entrance. Follow signs to Balboa Park and locate the Mingei International Museum at Plaza de Panama.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
From your location in Tijuana, request a taxi or rideshare service like Uber to take you directly to Balboa Park, Plaza de Panama, San Diego, CA 92101. Provide the driver with the address and enjoy the ride. It will take approximately 30-45 minutes depending on border crossing times.
-
Walking
If you are near the border crossing, walk across the San Ysidro Port of Entry into the United States. After crossing, follow signs to the Trolley station, and take the Green Line towards 'Santee Town Center'. Get off at 'City College' station and transfer to the Blue Line towards 'America Plaza'. Get off at 'Little Italy' and walk to the bus stop at India St & W Ash St to take bus route 7 towards 'Balboa Park'. Follow the signs to the Mingei International Museum at Plaza de Panama once you arrive in the park.
Discover more about Mingei International Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
House of Charm
0.0 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.
House of England
0.3 km
Explore the House of England in San Diego's Balboa Park, a cultural gem celebrating British heritage with engaging exhibits and community events.
Casa Del Prado
0.3 km
Explore Casa Del Prado, a historical landmark in Balboa Park, showcasing San Diego's rich cultural heritage through art and architecture.
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
Explore the Golden Hill Fountain Grotto, a serene historical landmark in Balboa Park, San Diego, blending stunning architecture with tranquil nature.
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.
Spruce Street Suspension Bridge
1.6 km
Discover the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge, a historic landmark in San Diego offering breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere for all visitors.
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
ICA San Diego / Central
0.0 km
Discover contemporary creativity and cultural dialogue at ICA San Diego, a vibrant art center in the heart of Balboa Park.
Alcázar Garden
0.1 km
Discover the enchanting Alcázar Garden in Balboa Park, a serene escape filled with vibrant flora and stunning Spanish-inspired architecture.
Plaza de Panama
0.1 km
Explore the iconic Plaza de Panama at Balboa Park, a cultural and historical landmark in San Diego, filled with art, gardens, and captivating architecture.
California Tower
0.1 km
Explore the California Tower in Balboa Park, a historical landmark offering stunning views and rich cultural experiences in the heart of San Diego.
The San Diego Museum of Art
0.1 km
Discover the cultural heart of San Diego at The San Diego Museum of Art, showcasing a diverse collection of world-renowned art.
Casa del Rey Moro Garden
0.1 km
Discover a tranquil Moorish-inspired garden in Balboa Park, featuring lush greenery, soothing water features, and a serene atmosphere for relaxation.
Palm Canyon Trail
0.1 km
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.
Balboa Park Explorer
0.1 km
Unlock San Diego's cultural heart! Explore Balboa Park's museums, gardens, and attractions with the Balboa Park Explorer pass.
Museum of Us
0.1 km
Explore the Museum of Us in Balboa Park, where culture and anthropology unite to offer an immersive journey through the history of humanity.
1549 El Prado
0.1 km
Explore Balboa Park's stunning architecture, lush gardens, and world-class museums in the heart of San Diego, California.
Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum
0.1 km
Explore the serene beauty of the Japanese Friendship Garden in San Diego, a cultural gem showcasing traditional Japanese horticulture and design.
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.
The Old Globe
0.2 km
Discover the magic of theater at The Old Globe in Balboa Park, San Diego, where world-class productions meet stunning surroundings.
Spreckels Organ Pavilion
0.2 km
Discover the enchanting Spreckels Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park, where stunning architecture meets the captivating sound of one of the world's largest outdoor pipe organs.
House of Pacific Relations - Hall of Nations
0.2 km
Discover the rich tapestry of cultural heritage at the House of Pacific Relations - Hall of Nations in San Diego, a vibrant hub celebrating global traditions.
Essential places to dine
Panama 66
0.1 km
Discover Panama 66 in Balboa Park – where American flavors meet artistic ambiance amidst stunning surroundings.
Prado
0.1 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Californian cuisine at Prado in Balboa Park – where great food meets stunning scenery.
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
0.4 km
Discover Sweet Shack in Balboa Park: a must-visit American restaurant offering delightful dishes and a cozy atmosphere for all visitors.
Albert's Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at Albert's Restaurant in San Diego Zoo—perfect for families seeking great food amid wildlife.
Safari Kitchen
0.4 km
Discover delicious hamburgers at Safari Kitchen in San Diego's Balboa Park – where taste meets adventure.
Sabertooth Grill
0.8 km
Experience delightful American cuisine amidst the beauty of Balboa Park at Sabertooth Grill – perfect for families and tourists alike.
Mister A's
0.9 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
1.0 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Parc Bistro-Brasserie in San Diego - your destination for delightful breakfasts, brunches, and seafood specialties.
The Balboa
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of San Diego at The Balboa Grill & Bar – where great food meets friendly service.
Hob Nob Hill
1.2 km
Discover the charm of Hob Nob Hill in San Diego: where classic American comfort food meets cozy diner vibes.
Tobeys 19th Hole Restaurant
1.4 km
Discover delicious American breakfast at Tobeys 19th Hole Restaurant in Balboa Park, where quality meets affordability.
GlassDoor Restaurant
1.7 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors in the heart of San Diego at GlassDoor Restaurant—where delicious food meets vibrant culture.
Trust
1.8 km
Discover Trust in Hillcrest - A New American dining experience blending seasonal flavors with innovative cocktails in San Diego.
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
0.1 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
0.2 km
Explore the United Nations International Gift Shop in San Diego for unique gifts, books, and clothing that celebrate global cultures and promote peace.
North Star Science Store
0.4 km
Explore the North Star Science Store in Balboa Park, a unique gift shop filled with science-themed treasures for curious minds and adventurers.
Arctic Trader
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs that celebrate San Diego's wildlife at Arctic Trader, located in beautiful Balboa Park.
Panda Shop
0.5 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
0.7 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at Sydney's Shoppe, the charming gift shop in San Diego's iconic Balboa Park.
Tusker's Trunk
0.8 km
Uncover unique wildlife-themed souvenirs and gifts at Tusker's Trunk, the charming shop in San Diego Zoo, perfect for all ages.
Rosamariposa
1.7 km
Explore Rosamariposa, a charming gift shop in Downtown San Diego, offering unique treasures that capture the essence of local artistry and culture.
Vitreum
1.8 km
Explore Vitreum, San Diego's unique gift shop offering locally crafted treasures and artisanal gifts that capture the city's vibrant spirit.
Stroll
1.9 km
Explore Stroll Boutique in Downtown San Diego for unique fashion and gifts that embody the coastal charm of California.
Gold Leaf
2.0 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.
2.0 km
Explore a curated collection of vintage clothing and unique furniture at Bad Madge & Co. in San Diego's charming South Park neighborhood.
Dream Boutique
2.2 km
Explore Dream Boutique in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter for unique women's fashion, jewelry, and art that celebrates local creativity.
Great souvenirs of San Diego,inc.
2.2 km
Shop for unique local treasures at Great Souvenirs of San Diego, where every item tells a story and captures the spirit of this vibrant coastal city.
Wotown Vintage
2.2 km
Explore Wotown Vintage in San Diego: A unique fusion of vintage clothing, local art, and skate culture awaits you.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lady Carolyn's Pub
0.1 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
0.9 km
Experience the best of Californian cuisine and craft beer at The Corner Drafthouse, a vibrant bar and restaurant in San Diego's Bankers Hill.
Wet Stone Wine Bar & Cafe
1.1 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.
Vin de Syrah
2.0 km
Discover the enchanting Vin de Syrah, a premier wine bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, offering exquisite wines and an inviting atmosphere.
Whistle Stop Bar
2.0 km
Experience the vibrant culture of South Park at Whistle Stop Bar, where live music meets a laid-back atmosphere in San Diego.
False Idol
2.0 km
Discover False Idol, a tiki bar in San Diego offering exotic cocktails and an immersive island atmosphere that delights every visitor.
Room 56
2.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Room 56, San Diego's top cocktail bar, featuring innovative drinks and a stylish atmosphere.
Gaslamp Tavern
2.0 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
2.1 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
2.1 km
Discover the excitement of Star Bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, where karaoke and sports come together for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
The Tipsy Crow
2.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Tipsy Crow, a top bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, offering drinks, bites, and unforgettable memories.
Noble Experiment
2.2 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
2.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of San Diego at this dynamic gastropub, where gourmet cuisine meets a lively bar atmosphere.
Young Blood
2.2 km
Discover Young Blood, the cocktail bar in Downtown San Diego where vintage charm meets innovative mixology for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Whiskey Girl
2.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Whiskey Girl, a top sports bar and live music venue in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter.
