Explore the Wonders of the San Diego Natural History Museum
Discover the natural wonders of Southern California at the San Diego Natural History Museum, a treasure trove of biodiversity and science.
The San Diego Natural History Museum invites tourists to delve into the rich tapestry of natural history. Located in Balboa Park, this museum offers an engaging blend of exhibits that highlight the region's biodiversity, geology, and ancient life, making it a must-visit destination for families and nature enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to San Diego Natural History Museum
- 1788 El Prado, San Diego, Balboa Park, California, 92101, US
- +1619-232-3821
- 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
- Plan your visit during weekdays for a less crowded experience.
- Check the museum's website for special exhibitions and events before your visit.
- Be sure to explore the outdoor exhibits and gardens surrounding the museum.
- Use public transportation or ride-sharing services; parking can be limited in Balboa Park.
- Visit the gift shop for unique souvenirs and educational materials related to natural history.
Getting There
-
Public Bus
From downtown Tijuana, head to the main bus terminal at Avenida Revolución and Calle 2. Take the 'Tijuana - San Diego' bus line, which frequently departs for the San Ysidro border crossing. Upon arriving at the border, walk across into the United States. Once you clear customs, follow signs to the San Diego Trolley at the San Ysidro Transit Center. Board the Blue Line trolley heading towards 'University Town Center' and get off at the 'City College' station. Transfer to the Orange Line trolley towards 'El Cajon' and get off at 'Santa Fe Depot'. From there, walk for about 15 minutes to reach the San Diego Natural History Museum located at 1788 El Prado in Balboa Park.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
If you prefer a direct route, you can take a taxi or rideshare (like Uber) from your location in Tijuana. Head to the border at San Ysidro, where the driver will drop you off. After crossing the border, continue to Balboa Park by requesting the driver to take you to 1788 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101. This option is more convenient if you're traveling with luggage or prefer not to navigate public transportation.
-
Walking
For the adventurous, you can walk across the San Ysidro border on foot. Start from Avenida Revolución in Tijuana and make your way to the border. After crossing, follow the signs to the San Ysidro Transit Center. From there, walk to the San Diego Trolley station. Board the Blue Line trolley, get off at 'City College', then transfer to the Orange Line trolley towards 'El Cajon'. Alight at 'Santa Fe Depot', and walk approximately 15 minutes to Balboa Park to reach the San Diego Natural History Museum.
Discover more about San Diego Natural History Museum
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.
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.
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.
House of England
0.6 km
Explore the House of England in San Diego's Balboa Park, a cultural gem celebrating British heritage with engaging exhibits and community events.
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.
Marston House
1.4 km
Explore Marston House in San Diego for a captivating journey through early 20th-century architecture and rich local history amidst beautiful gardens.
Golden Hill Fountain Grotto
1.5 km
Explore the Golden Hill Fountain Grotto, a serene historical landmark in Balboa Park, San Diego, blending stunning architecture with tranquil nature.
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
1.6 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.
Spruce Street Suspension Bridge
1.9 km
Discover the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge, a historic landmark in San Diego offering breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere for all visitors.
Amici House
2.0 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
Spanish Village Art Center
0.1 km
Explore the vibrant Spanish Village Art Center in Balboa Park, a cultural oasis filled with local art, galleries, and workshops in San Diego.
Casa Del Prado
0.1 km
Explore Spanish Colonial Revival architecture & vibrant cultural scene at Casa Del Prado in Balboa Park. A historic landmark with youth arts & gardens.
Desert Garden
0.2 km
Explore the stunning Desert Garden in Balboa Park, a botanical haven showcasing unique desert flora in the heart of San Diego.
Fleet Science Center
0.2 km
Discover the wonders of science at Fleet Science Center in San Diego—an interactive museum and IMAX theater perfect for curious minds of all ages.
Botanical Building
0.2 km
Discover the Botanical Building in Balboa Park, a stunning architectural gem showcasing diverse plant life and serene landscapes in San Diego.
Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden
0.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden in Balboa Park, a floral paradise with over 1,600 stunning rose varieties.
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 de Balboa
0.2 km
Explore art, history, and culture at Casa de Balboa, a landmark building in Balboa Park, San Diego, home to diverse museums and stunning architecture.
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.
Balboa Park Explorer
0.2 km
Unlock San Diego's cultural heart! Explore Balboa Park's museums, gardens, and attractions with the Balboa Park Explorer pass.
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.
Balboa Park Carousel
0.3 km
Experience the enchanting charm of the historic Balboa Park Carousel, a beloved ride in the heart of San Diego's cultural treasure.
Plaza de Panama
0.3 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.
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
Busy Bee Cafe
0.2 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Busy Bee Cafe in San Diego Zoo, offering delicious American cuisine amid thrilling wildlife adventures.
Prado
0.3 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Californian cuisine at Prado in Balboa Park – where great food meets stunning scenery.
Sweet Shack
0.3 km
Discover Sweet Shack in Balboa Park: a must-visit American restaurant offering delightful dishes and a cozy atmosphere for all visitors.
Panama 66
0.3 km
Discover Panama 66 in Balboa Park – where American flavors meet artistic ambiance amidst stunning surroundings.
Safari Kitchen
0.3 km
Discover delicious hamburgers at Safari Kitchen in San Diego's Balboa Park – where taste meets adventure.
Albert's Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at Albert's Restaurant in San Diego Zoo—perfect for families seeking great food amid wildlife.
Sabertooth Grill
0.8 km
Experience delightful American cuisine amidst the beauty of Balboa Park at Sabertooth Grill – perfect for families and tourists alike.
Tobeys 19th Hole Restaurant
1.2 km
Discover delicious American breakfast at Tobeys 19th Hole Restaurant in Balboa Park, where quality meets affordability.
Mister A's
1.2 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
1.2 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
1.6 km
Discover Trust in Hillcrest - A New American dining experience blending seasonal flavors with innovative cocktails in San Diego.
RustiCucina
1.7 km
Discover RustiCucina in San Diego for an authentic Italian dining experience with fresh ingredients and classic recipes.
insideOUT
1.8 km
Discover insideOUT in Hillcrest: A vibrant restaurant offering exquisite Mediterranean dishes and an inviting lounge atmosphere perfect for all occasions.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
North Star Science Store
0.2 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
0.3 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
0.6 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
0.6 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
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at Sydney's Shoppe, the charming gift shop in San Diego's iconic Balboa Park.
Arctic Trader
0.7 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs that celebrate San Diego's wildlife at Arctic Trader, located in beautiful 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.
Gold Leaf
1.7 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.
The Gold Dust Collective
2.4 km
Discover unique antiques, vintage clothing, and handmade gifts at The Gold Dust Collective in San Diego's vibrant North Park neighborhood.
The Cave of Wonders
2.4 km
Explore The Cave of Wonders in San Diego, where enchanting gifts, unique jewelry, and mystical treasures await in a vibrant atmosphere.
Hunt & Gather
2.4 km
Explore the charm of vintage fashion at Hunt & Gather, where unique clothing and accessories await in the heart of North Park, San Diego.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lady Carolyn's Pub
0.4 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
1.2 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
1.5 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
1.7 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
2.3 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
2.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Room 56, San Diego's top cocktail bar, featuring innovative drinks and a stylish atmosphere.
Gaslamp Tavern
2.3 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
2.3 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
2.3 km
Discover the excitement of Star Bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, where karaoke and sports come together for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Part Time Lover
2.4 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail scene at Part Time Lover in North Park, San Diego, where every sip tells a story in an unforgettable atmosphere.
False Idol
2.4 km
Discover False Idol, a tiki bar in San Diego offering exotic cocktails and an immersive island atmosphere that delights every visitor.
Noble Experiment
2.4 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
2.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of San Diego at this dynamic gastropub, where gourmet cuisine meets a lively bar atmosphere.
Young Blood
2.4 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
2.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Tipsy Crow, a top bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, offering drinks, bites, and unforgettable memories.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Phantom Lounge and Nightclub
2.2 km
Experience the dynamic nightlife of San Diego at Phantom Lounge and Nightclub, where great cocktails, music, and ambiance come together for an unforgettable evening.
Parq Nightclub
2.2 km
Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Parq Nightclub, where world-class DJs, exquisite cocktails, and an electrifying atmosphere await in Downtown San Diego.
Bloom Nightclub
2.3 km
Unleash your inner party animal at Bloom Nightclub, the heartbeat of San Diego's nightlife, featuring electrifying music and a chic atmosphere.
Onyx Room
2.3 km
Discover the pulse of San Diego nightlife at Onyx Room, where exquisite cocktails and electrifying music converge in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter.
F6ix
2.4 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at F6ix, a premier nightclub in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, featuring vibrant music, craft cocktails, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
San Diego VIP Nightlife
2.5 km
Discover the pulse of San Diego's nightlife at San Diego VIP Nightlife, where music and excitement await in downtown's vibrant setting.
TORO
2.5 km
Dive into the pulse of San Diego's nightlife at TORO, where electrifying music and vibrant energy create unforgettable nights.
The Brig
2.5 km
Discover electrifying nightlife at The Brig, the ultimate night club in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, perfect for dancing and unforgettable memories.
Side Bar
2.6 km
Experience the ultimate nightlife at Side Bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, featuring live music, creative cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere.
San Diego Club Crawl
2.6 km
Unleash your nightlife spirit with San Diego Club Crawl: an unforgettable journey through the city's vibrant bars and nightclubs.
NOVA SD
2.7 km
Discover the thrill of San Diego nightlife at NOVA SD, the ultimate night club experience in the lively Gaslamp Quarter.
Oxford Social Club
2.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Oxford Social Club, where elegance meets excitement in the heart of San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter.
Altitude Sky Lounge
2.8 km
Discover the breathtaking views and vibrant nightlife at Altitude Sky Lounge, San Diego's premier rooftop destination for great food and cocktails.
Sevilla Nightclub of San Diego
2.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Sevilla Nightclub, San Diego's hotspot for live music and exhilarating nightlife in the Gaslamp Quarter.
Spin Nightclub
4.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of San Diego at Spin Nightclub, where live music meets an electrifying atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
