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  • Science Never Stops
    Museum closed, but our work continues
    Learn more
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    10 great winter trails
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    This is winter in San Diego
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    Read what our scientists are up to
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The Nat is closed until further notice. Learn more.

Exhibitions

Insects Face to Face
Now open

See outstanding colors, mysterious textures, and alien forms in this aesthetically stunning photography exhibition featuring gorgeous macro photography from the USGS Bee Inventory Monitoring Lab. 


Living Lab
Now open

The Nat has a Vivarium—a facility in which we care for our live animals—in the basement of the Museum. We’re bringing these animals out and into the public gallery as part of our brand-new exhibition located on Level 1 just off the Atrium. 


California Blooming
Opening January 15, 2021

More than 35 photographs that celebrate the universal symbol of the Golden State’s beauty: the wildflower. This visual survey of California’s diverse and delicately-balanced ecosystems reveals the effects of climate change and other human impacts on our native plants.



Events

Digital Nature & Me Storytime
First and Third Thursdays, 10:15 AM

A new mini-episode every Thursday morning across our social media channels or on YouTube.


Specimen Spotlight: A Visit to the Nature to You Loan Program
Wednesday, January 20, 2021 4 PM

Join us for a special visit behind the scenes at the Nature to You Loan Program. This uncommon library of specimens includes a wide variety of mammals, reptiles, birds and more.

RSVP now


The Nat @ Home

Activities you can do at home

Stay busy—and learn something along the way. These family-friendly activities can be done at home or throughout your neighborhood. More.

Lesson plans and guides

Looking for educational activities for kids? The Nat has lesson plans, online activities, and more for teachers and parents. While many were designed to be used during a museum visit, they contain good background information that is easily accessible for parents offering lessons from home. More.


Science Never Stops

Four Ways Climate Change is Affecting Local Wildlife

Ten Great Hikes for Winter

Endangered Bumblebees: Not Defined as ‘Wildlife’ Under California State Law

This is Winter in Southern California

Three Ways to Help Monarchs this Fall and Winter

What is Community Science Today?

Becoming a Herpetologist

Scientists Discover Giant Flying Bird from Antarctica

This is Fall in San Diego

Learning About Wildfires

Our Mission

To interpret the natural world through research, education and exhibits; to promote understanding of the evolution and diversity of southern California and the peninsula of Baja California; and to inspire in all a respect for nature and the environment.

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Museum Hours

  • Temporarily Closed
  • 10 AM to 4 PM, Tuesday - Sunday 
    Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
    Hours subject to change.

Museum Guide

To prepare for a visit to the Museum, download or print a copy of our guide. (PDF)

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Connect with Us

San Diego Natural History Museum
1788 El Prado, Balboa Park
San Diego, CA 92101

619.232.3821
877.946.7797 (Toll Free) 

619.232.0248 (Fax) 

Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 121390
San Diego, CA 92112-1390