The museum's research department holds one of the largest collections of plants from Baja California in the world.
The institution began as the San Diego Society of Natural History, established by a small group of local amateur naturalists.
The museum's current building, opened in 1933, underwent a major expansion in 2001 that doubled its size.
The collection contains significant fossil remains discovered during local construction projects, including those of prehistoric marine mammals.
The museum operates an active field research program that regularly describes new species of insects and plants from the peninsula.
The San Diego Natural History Museum, known as The Nat, is located in Balboa Park and focuses on the natural history and biodiversity of Southern California and the Baja California Peninsula. Founded in 1874, it is the oldest scientific institution in Southern California. The museum houses a collection of nearly eight million specimens, including extensive fossil, mineral, and biological records. Key exhibits include a giant screen theater, a rooftop deck with views of the park, and a four-story atrium. Research conducted by museum scientists emphasizes regional paleontology and environmental conservation. The facility frequently hosts temporary exhibitions that explore climate change and local ecological transitions. It serves as a primary hub for scientific education in the San Diego region.
The fourth-floor rooftop terrace provides an expansive, unobstructed view of the Balboa Park skyline and the California Tower.
Check the museum's events calendar for monthly lecture series held by curators.
Visit the rooftop terrace for a high-vantage perspective of Balboa Park's architecture.
Look for the 'Coast to Cactus' exhibit to understand the unique transition zones of the local landscape.
Trying to see every single exhibit in one visit; the collection is extensive, so focus on specific floors or topics.
