Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility

Plan Your Visit

Construction updates: know before you go

From September 15 through early November, our theater and some floors/galleries will be closed while we install a new roof over the Atrium and green our building (learn more). Here’s everything you need to know about a visit to The Nat during construction.

What’s open?

These exhibits will remain open (primarily Levels 1, 2, and the Lower Level):

Our native plant garden, The Nature Trail, will remain open and accesible, as will the cafe and store—more on that below.

What’s closed?

  • The theater
  • North end of Fossil Mysteries (marine fossils and Ice Age specimens)
  • Science Spotlight: Whale Evolution
  • Skulls
  • Extraordinary Ideas from Ordinary People
  • Expedition Baja

Are you offering any discounts since some galleries are closed?

We sure are! Admission is half-price during the heavy construction period (mid-September through early November). In October, kids visit free when you present a downloadable coupon as part of Kids Free San Diego. So it’s an even better value!

Are the cafe and store still open?

Yes! Both Golf Leaf and The Craft Taco will remain open. They’ll be in a temporary space on Level 1 just inside the west entrance. The cafe and store are open to both Museum visitors and non-visitors. In other words, if you want to make a purchase or grab lunch but not explore the rest of the Museum, you can do so without paying admission—just come through our west entrance off Village Place.

How do I get into—and around—the Museum?

Please enter through the south museum entrance, located just off the Prado Walkway near the fountain. An accessible entrance will be available on the west side of the Museum off Village Place. Our north entrance will be completely closed (these are the doors with the Welcome Weasel, near the giant fig tree). Click here for a handy visual (see Entrances).

Once inside the Museum, your path from one exhibition to another may be unusual since the walkways around the Atrium will be closed, but the good news is that you’ll feel like a Nat staffer as you navigate back hallways! Plus, we’ll have plenty of signs and staff to help guide you.

What about parking?

Beginning September 23, the parking lot directly east of the Museum, along Park Blvd., will be closed to make way for construction equipment. All other parking lots and streets remain open. Keep in mind we’re just a few steps away from a bus stop, so public transit is a great option, as is ride sharing.

About to visit Balboa Park?

Whether you are an exploring tourist or a curious local, we put all the important information you need in one place to make your visit great!

Hours and admission

We are open 10 AM–5 PM daily and closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Buy tickets here. We are also open late on select Fridays. Before your visit, be sure to check our website for any last-minute closures or updates!

Parking and directions

Here is parking information, directions to the Museum, and options for public transit—there's a bus stop practically at our doorstep! Learn more.

Giant Screen Theater

All films are included with paid admission. See what's currently showing. Please note: the theater will be closed during our rooftop construction, approximately September 15 through mid-November.

Nature is for everyone

Cost should not be a barrier to enjoying the Museum. That’s why The Nat offers many free admission programs, including Museums for All, Resident Free Days, and more. Learn more.