San Diego Natural History Museum

Up to an hour

Get immersed in natural history and learn more about the world around you at the San Diego Natural History Museum, also known as The Nat.

All passes
Must-sees
Family-friendly
Indoors

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4.6

15 reviews

Lovely and interesting museum in Balboa Park

Aug 20, 2025

Fun for all ages

Sep 3, 2025

Was very accessible friendly whether you’re mobility impaired or English isn’t your first language.

Aug 18, 2025

Best service and easy use with go city passes!

Nov 4, 2025

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What you'll do

Immerse yourself in the wonders of the natural world at the San Diego Natural History Museum, also known as The Nat! A flagship insitution in stunning Balboa Park, The Nat features regional, natural history and biodiversity of Southern and Baja California over a whopping four floors of exhibition space and more.

Enjoy permanent exhibitions, rotating films in the giant-screen theater, a robust calendar of events and activities and the opportunity to see scientists at work. Discover fascinating stories with friends and family about our natural world when you pay a visit to The Nat!

What's included

Access to all permanent exhibits
Access to all films on rotation in the Giant Screen Theater
Four floors of interactive exhibits to explore
Enjoy Nat at Night every Friday evening in Summer
All taxes and fees included
Parking not included

Getting in

Head to either of the San Diego Natural History Museum entrances (the north side of the Museum near the giant tree is nearest to the Zoo; the south side of the museum near the fountain is closest to the other museums) and simply present your pass at the ticketing counter to gain admission.

Have a stroller or use a wheelchair? Head to the staff entrance at gold doors (on the west side of the building facing into the park near the Junior Theater).
Your pass includes general admission to The Nat. General admission includes all permanent exhibitions, daily films in the giant-screen theater, and free programs during operating hours. Tickets are not valid for separately priced, ticketed exhibitions, events, or programs. Tickets do not include food or drink.

Is photography allowed inside the San Diego Natural History Museum?

Yes, photography is allowed and encouraged for personal use only. Tripods are not permitted. Flash photography is not permitted in some areas.

What type of exhibits can visitors expect to see at the San Diego Natural History Museum?

Visitors can expect to see exhibits on natural history, including dinosaurs, fossils, minerals, and California ecology. You might even see a paleontologist at work!

Is there a gift shop at the San Diego Natural History Museum?

Yes, there is a small gift shop operated by Gold Leaf located inside the Museum on Level 1 where you can purchase souvenirs.

Are food and drinks allowed inside the San Diego Natural History Museum?

Yes, food and drinks are permitted inside the Museum, with the exception of Living Lab and Extraordinary Ideas from Ordinary People. There is also a café operated by The Craft Taco on Level 1 where visitors can purchase food and drinks during all operating hours. Alcohol is available for purchase during Nat at Night on Fridays from 5PM–11PM through September 4.

Is there parking available at the San Diego Natural History Museum?

Yes. Parking is available near the Museum just off Park Blvd. The Balboa Park Carousel and San Diego Zoo lot offer additional nearby parking. For easy access to Balboa Park’s center, park at Inspiration Point Lot and take the free tram.

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Where you'll be

1788 El Prado, San Diego, US

Where you'll meet

San Diego Natural History Museum entrances: the north side of the Museum near the giant tree is nearest to the Zoo; the south side of the museum near the fountain is closest to the other museums.