San Diego Natural History Museum

Science Never Stops

Museum closed, but our work continues

Learn more
Shop The Nat

Wear your love of nature.

Explore the shop
Take a hike

10 great winter trails

Learn more
Nature Now

This is winter in San Diego

Learn more
From the Field

Read what our scientists are up to

Learn more

The Nat is closed until further notice. Learn more.

Exhibitions

California Blooming
Opening spring 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.

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.

Science Never Stops

Frog Calls: What Are They Really Saying?

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

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.