The San Diego Natural History Museum

Overview

The San Diego Natural History Museum — "The NAT" — is the oldest scientific institution in Southern California, exploring the natural history of the region from Baja California to the Pacific Ocean.

Highlights

• Coast to Cactus: A permanent exhibit tracing San Diego's diverse ecosystems from ocean to desert.
• Fossil Mysteries: Fossils from the region spanning 75 million years.
• Giant Screen Theater: A 2.5-story screen showing nature documentaries.

History

Founded in 1874, the museum originally occupied a downtown storefront. It moved to its current Balboa Park building in 1933, which was expanded and renovated in 2001 with a striking modernist addition.

Visitor Tips

• The giant-screen films require a separate ticket but are worth it for nature lovers.
• Free on the first Tuesday of each month.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.