The San Diego Natural History Museum in Balboa Park is home of an active research institution, the San Diego Society of Natural History which is, in fact, the oldest scientific institution in southern California, and the third oldest west of the Mississippi. Since its inception in 1874, society members have been engaged in a wide range of activities from establishing a weather station, supporting the creation of Torrey Pines State Reserve, and working for the founding of the new San Diego Zoological Society.
Even in this age of high-technology, the mystery of the natural world is a powerful draw, and this museum is one of the finest. The museum hosts exhibits that focus on geology, plants and animals of the Southwest region and farther, as well as exhibits of a general nature on any aspect of the natural world. The museum excels at presenting exhibits that come to life through interactive, creative tools. One such example is a recent exhibit "Water: H2O=Life" which combines innovative technology, hands-on activities, live animals, and captivating imagery.
The museum also features the Charmaine and Maurice Kaplan Theater, a 300-seat, giant-screen theater which shows a wide range of films that augment its exhibits.
Attraction Information
- Hours:
- Daily: 10am–5pm
- Closed Monday
- Admission:
- Adult: $13
- Senior (62+): $11
- Active Military, Youth (13–17), Student (with ID): $8
- Child (3–12): $7
- Child 2 and under: Free
- Contact:
- Address: 1788 El Prado, Balboa Park, San Diego, CA
- Phone: 619-232-3821
- Website: www.sdnhm.org
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