A Cultural Haven: The San Diego Museum of Art
Explore the impressive collection of The San Diego Museum of Art, featuring masterpieces from around the world in the heart of Balboa Park.
Nestled in the picturesque Balboa Park, The San Diego Museum of Art invites art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike to explore its impressive collection of artwork spanning centuries and continents. With engaging exhibitions and vibrant community events, it is a must-visit destination for tourists seeking to immerse themselves in the world of art.
A brief summary to The San Diego Museum of Art
- 1450 El Prado, San Diego, Balboa Park, California, 92102, US
- +1619-232-7931
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Tuesdays for special guided tours that provide deeper insights into the exhibitions.
- Check the museum's calendar for art workshops and family-friendly events that enhance your visit.
- Take advantage of the nearby Balboa Park attractions; consider purchasing a park pass for savings.
- Photography is allowed in most areas, but be sure to respect the artwork and other visitors.
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From Tijuana, head to the Tijuana Bus Station (Central de Autobuses de Tijuana) located at Blvd. Agua Caliente 1060. You can take a taxi or use a local bus from your location in Tijuana to get there. Once at the bus station, purchase a ticket for a bus to San Diego. Buses like Greyhound or Cross Border Xpress operate frequently on this route. The journey will take approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic and border crossing time. Upon arrival at the San Diego bus terminal, exit the bus and head to the nearby trolley station.
-
Trolley
At the San Diego bus terminal, follow the signs to the San Diego Trolley station. Board the Blue Line trolley heading towards 'Old Town' or 'America Plaza.' You need to get off at the 'City College' station. The ride will take about 8 minutes.
-
Walking
After exiting the trolley at the 'City College' station, walk east on C street for about 5 blocks, then turn left onto Park Boulevard. Continue on Park Boulevard for about 0.6 miles until you reach Balboa Park. The San Diego Museum of Art is located at 1450 El Prado, right in the heart of Balboa Park. You will see the museum on your right. The walk should take around 15-20 minutes.
Discover more about The San Diego Museum of Art
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cabrillo Bridge
0.4 km
Discover the beauty and history of Cabrillo Bridge, an architectural gem in Balboa Park, San Diego, perfect for memorable walks and breathtaking views.
House of England
0.4 km
Explore the House of England in San Diego, a charming museum celebrating British culture and heritage amidst the beauty of Balboa Park.
San Diego Zoo
0.4 km
Discover the incredible diversity of wildlife at San Diego Zoo, a world-renowned destination for conservation, education, and family fun.
Balboa Park
0.6 km
Discover Balboa Park: A cultural paradise in San Diego with stunning gardens, historic museums, and vibrant events for every traveler.
San Diego Air & Space Museum
0.8 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
1.0 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
1.3 km
Explore the Marston House Museum, a gem of Arts and Crafts architecture in San Diego, showcasing rich history and stunning gardens.
Long-Waterman House
1.3 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
1.4 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.
Spruce Street Suspension Bridge
1.6 km
Discover the iconic Spruce Street Suspension Bridge, a historical landmark in San Diego offering breathtaking views and a charming stroll through nature.
Golden Hill Fountain Grotto
1.6 km
Explore the Golden Hill Fountain Grotto: A serene historical landmark in San Diego's Balboa Park with stunning fountains and lush surroundings.
Amici House
1.7 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.
Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church
1.8 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.
Piazza Basilone
1.9 km
Discover the serene Piazza Basilone in downtown San Diego, a historical landmark honoring WWII hero John Basilone amidst tranquil gardens.
Little Italy Street Sign
1.9 km
Discover the vibrant Italian culture of Little Italy, San Diego, where culinary delights and charming streets await every visitor.
Unmissable attractions to see
Timken Museum of Art
0.1 km
Explore the Timken Museum of Art in San Diego, a premier art destination in Balboa Park featuring free admission and extraordinary collections.
Sculpture Garden
0.1 km
Discover the serene and inspiring Sculpture Garden in San Diego's Balboa Park, a must-see for art enthusiasts and families alike.
Lily Pond
0.1 km
Discover tranquility at the Lily Pond in Balboa Park, a serene nature preserve filled with vibrant lilies and stunning landscapes.
House of Charm
0.1 km
Experience the rich history and stunning architecture of the House of Charm, a captivating landmark in San Diego's Balboa Park.
ICA San Diego / Central
0.1 km
Discover contemporary creativity and cultural dialogue at ICA San Diego, a vibrant art center in the heart of Balboa Park.
Balboa Park Visitors Center
0.1 km
Explore Balboa Park's cultural treasures at the Visitors Center, your essential guide to San Diego's iconic park experience.
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.
Botanical Building
0.1 km
Discover the beauty of diverse flora at the Botanical Building, a breathtaking architectural gem in San Diego's Balboa Park.
Mingei International Museum
0.1 km
Discover the Mingei International Museum in Balboa Park, where folk art and craftsmanship from around the world come to life in an inspiring setting.
Balboa Park Explorer
0.1 km
Discover Balboa Park Explorer: A Cultural Oasis with Gardens, Museums, and History in San Diego.
El Cid Campeador Statue
0.1 km
Discover the El Cid Campeador Statue, a magnificent sculpture in Balboa Park, celebrating Spanish heritage and artistry amidst stunning surroundings.
The Prado at Balboa Park
0.1 km
Experience exquisite Californian cuisine in the heart of Balboa Park, where culinary artistry meets stunning landscapes.
Spreckels Organ Society
0.1 km
Experience majestic outdoor concerts at the Spreckels Organ Society, featuring one of the largest pipe organs in the world in beautiful Balboa Park.
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.
Alcázar Garden
0.2 km
Experience the beauty of Alcázar Garden in Balboa Park, a stunning Spanish-style paradise filled with vibrant flora and tranquil pathways.
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.
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.
Busy Bee Cafe
0.3 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Busy Bee Cafe in San Diego Zoo, offering delicious American cuisine amid thrilling wildlife adventures.
Safari Kitchen
0.3 km
Discover delicious hamburgers at Safari Kitchen in San Diego's Balboa Park – where taste meets adventure.
Albert's Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at Albert's Restaurant in San Diego Zoo—perfect for families seeking great food amid wildlife.
Sabertooth Grill
0.7 km
Experience delightful American cuisine amidst the beauty of Balboa Park at Sabertooth Grill – perfect for families and tourists alike.
Mister A's
1.0 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
1.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of San Diego at The Balboa Grill & Bar – where great food meets friendly service.
Hob Nob Hill
1.3 km
Discover the charm of Hob Nob Hill in San Diego: where classic American comfort food meets cozy diner vibes.
Tobeys 19th Hole Restaurant
1.5 km
Discover delicious American breakfast at Tobeys 19th Hole Restaurant in Balboa Park, where quality meets affordability.
Trust
1.6 km
Discover Trust in Hillcrest - A New American dining experience blending seasonal flavors with innovative cocktails in San Diego.
RustiCucina
1.8 km
Discover RustiCucina in San Diego for an authentic Italian dining experience with fresh ingredients and classic recipes.
GlassDoor Restaurant
1.8 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors in the heart of San Diego at GlassDoor Restaurant—where delicious food meets vibrant culture.
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.
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.
United Nations International Gift Shop
0.4 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
0.4 km
Discover unique panda-themed gifts and local crafts at the charming Panda Shop in San Diego's Balboa Park, perfect for all ages.
Arctic Trader
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs that celebrate San Diego's wildlife at Arctic Trader, located in beautiful Balboa Park.
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.
Tusker's Trunk
0.7 km
Uncover unique wildlife-themed souvenirs and gifts at Tusker's Trunk, the charming shop in San Diego Zoo, perfect for all ages.
Rosamariposa
1.9 km
Explore Rosamariposa, a charming gift shop in Downtown San Diego, offering unique treasures that capture the essence of local artistry and culture.
Vitreum
1.9 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
1.9 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
2.3 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.
2.4 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
2.4 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
1.2 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
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.
Vin de Syrah
2.1 km
Discover the enchanting Vin de Syrah, a premier wine bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, offering exquisite wines and an inviting atmosphere.
False Idol
2.1 km
Discover False Idol, a tiki bar in San Diego offering exotic cocktails and an immersive island atmosphere that delights every visitor.
Room 56
2.2 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.
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.
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.
Whiskey Girl
2.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Whiskey Girl, a top sports bar and live music venue in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter.
