Explore, Play, Discover: Unique Experiences Await This February
Think museums aren’t for you? Think again! San Diego Museum Month isn’t just about art and history—it’s about adventure, discovery, and fun for everyone. With half-price admission all February long, it’s the perfect time to explore museums that spark curiosity in all kinds of ways.
Love cars, gardens, or toys? Fascinated by surfing, vintage collectibles, or lucha libre? Prefer hands-on experiences, outdoor adventures, or even wine tasting? Whatever your passion, there’s a museum waiting to surprise and delight you.
Museums are more than places to learn—they’re spaces to play, connect, and experience something new, no matter your age, background, or interests. Step outside the ordinary this Museum Month and see just how interactive, engaging, and exciting museums can be.
It’s also a great time to introduce young visitors to the magic of museums. Thanks to our partners at the San Diego Foundation and First 5 San Diego, we’re making museums more accessible than ever, ensuring families and young children can explore, play, and discover together.
Ready to find your next favorite museum? Let the adventure begin at one of these 10 area museums!
1. The Marston House Museum & Gardens: A Hidden Gem of History and Architecture
Tucked away in the northwest corner of Balboa Park, The Marston House Museum & Gardens offers a rare glimpse into early 20th-century San Diego. Built in 1905 for renowned civic leader and philanthropist George Marston, this exquisite Arts and Crafts-style home is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts, history buffs, and garden lovers alike.
Step inside and be transported to another era as you explore rooms filled with period furnishings, intricate woodwork, and original design details that reflect the craftsmanship of the time. Guided tours provide insight into the Marston family’s legacy, from their role in city planning and park preservation to their impact on San Diego’s cultural landscape.
Beyond the home’s historic interiors, the expansive gardens are a destination in themselves. Designed by noted landscape architects, the lush grounds feature winding pathways, shaded groves, and blooming flower beds, making it the perfect spot for a peaceful stroll. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply enjoying a quiet retreat, The Marston House offers a unique and enriching experience.
Why Visit?
- Experience one of San Diego’s finest examples of Arts and Crafts architecture
- Learn about George Marston’s contributions to the city’s development
- Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens in a serene setting
- Enjoy a guided tour filled with stories of San Diego’s past
This Museum Month, don’t miss the chance to step inside this historic treasure at half-price admission!
2. The San Diego Chinese Historical Museum: A Journey Through Culture and Legacy
Nestled in the heart of downtown San Diego, The San Diego Chinese Historical Museum offers a fascinating look into the rich history, culture, and contributions of the Chinese-American community in the region. Housed in a beautifully restored Mission-style building that once served as a Chinese community center, the museum provides an immersive experience that brings the past to life.
Inside, visitors can explore a diverse collection of traditional artifacts, historical photographs, and interactive exhibits that tell the story of Chinese immigrants in San Diego—from the early days of the fishing and railroad industries to the development of the city’s vibrant Chinatown. Exhibits showcase everything from intricately carved jade and antique textiles to personal stories of resilience, entrepreneurship, and cultural preservation.
Beyond the main galleries, the museum also features a serene Chinese garden, a hidden oasis in the bustling downtown area. Here, visitors can take a moment to reflect while enjoying the beauty of a koi pond, lush greenery, and classical Chinese design elements. The museum regularly hosts cultural events, educational programs, and rotating exhibits, making each visit a new opportunity for discovery.
Why Visit?
- Explore the rich history of Chinese-Americans in San Diego
- View rare artifacts, historical documents, and traditional art
- Experience interactive exhibits and cultural storytelling
- Relax in a beautiful Chinese garden and koi pond
- Engage with special events, lectures, and hands-on activities
This Museum Month, take advantage of half-price admission this weekend and embark on a journey through time, culture, and heritage at The San Diego Chinese Historical Museum.
3. The Bonita Museum & Cultural Center: Celebrating Local Heritage and Creativity
Located in San Diego’s South Bay, The Bonita Museum & Cultural Center is a vibrant hub of history, art, and culture that showcases the rich heritage of the Bonita and Sweetwater Valley region. More than just a museum, this community-driven space offers visitors a deep dive into the stories, people, and traditions that have shaped the area.
History enthusiasts will appreciate the museum’s exhibits on Bonita’s early settlers, agriculture, and the development of the Sweetwater Valley, including its connection to ranching, citrus groves, and the historic Sweetwater Dam. Vintage photographs, artifacts, and oral histories provide a window into the past, offering insight into the transformation of this unique part of San Diego County.
Art lovers will find a dynamic rotation of exhibitions featuring local artists, showcasing a variety of mediums from painting and sculpture to photography and textiles. The museum also hosts cultural events, workshops, and educational programs designed to engage visitors of all ages.
New Exhibit: Friends of Friendship Garden – Taking Amistad on the Road
This Museum Month, don’t miss the museum’s newest exhibit, Friends of Friendship Garden – Taking Amistad on the Road. This powerful and inspiring exhibition explores the deep cultural ties between San Diego and its sister city, Tijuana, through the lens of friendship, art, and community collaboration. The exhibit highlights the history and impact of the Friendship Garden, a symbol of unity that transcends borders.
Through art, photography, and storytelling, visitors will experience how this unique binational space has fostered connections between artists, activists, and citizens on both sides of the border. The exhibit showcases the traveling “Amistad” (friendship) sculpture, an emblem of goodwill and cultural exchange, and features perspectives from those who have worked to strengthen these cross-border relationships.
Why Visit?
- Discover the history and heritage of the Bonita and Sweetwater Valley region
- Explore rotating art exhibits featuring local and regional artists
- Engage with hands-on activities and cultural programming
- Learn about the area’s agricultural and ranching past
- Experience the new exhibit celebrating cross-border friendship and cultural connections
San Diego Museum Month is the perfect time to visit the always-free Bonita Museum & Cultural Center and experience this inspiring exhibition.
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4. The Pacific Southwest Railway Museum: All Aboard for a Journey Through Railroad History
Located in the quaint town of Campo, the Pacific Southwest Railway Museum is a must-visit for train enthusiasts, history lovers, and anyone fascinated by the golden age of railroads. This hidden gem offers visitors an immersive experience that not only showcases historic trains but also gives them the chance to step back in time with vintage train rides that recreate the experience of traveling by rail during the early 20th century.
The museum’s collection is extensive, featuring a variety of historic locomotives, rail cars, and railroad artifacts from the golden age of rail travel in the Pacific Southwest. Visitors can marvel at the carefully restored steam and diesel engines, learn about the critical role railroads played in shaping the development of the region, and explore exhibits that highlight the evolution of train technology and the history of the railway in the United States.
One of the highlights of a visit to the Pacific Southwest Railway Museum is the chance to take a vintage train ride. The museum offers scenic excursions along historic railroad routes, where guests can sit back and enjoy the beauty of the San Diego countryside while learning about the history of rail travel. Whether you’re riding in a classic rail car or a restored passenger coach, the experience is sure to transport you to a time when the train was the most exciting and essential form of transportation.
Why Visit?
- Explore an extensive collection of historic locomotives, rail cars, and train-related artifacts
- Ride a vintage train on scenic excursions through the beautiful Campo landscape
- Learn about the history of railroads and their role in the development of the Pacific Southwest
- Experience the golden age of rail travel with hands-on exhibits and restored trains
- Enjoy a family-friendly experience that brings history to life for all ages
This San Diego Museum Month, take a step back in time and hop on board for a vintage train ride and a journey through railroad history at the Pacific Southwest Railway Museum, all while enjoying half-price admission. Whether you’re a diehard train fan or just looking for a fun and educational outing, the museum is the perfect destination for discovering the fascinating world of trains.
5. The J.A. Cooley Museum: A Treasure Trove of Vintage Innovation
Tucked away on Park Boulevard, The J.A. Cooley Museum is a hidden gem for fans of vintage automobiles, rare antiques, and historical technology. This eclectic collection offers a fascinating look at the evolution of engineering, craftsmanship, and everyday life over the decades, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and collectors alike.
At the heart of the museum is its remarkable display of vintage automobiles, featuring over a dozen classic cars dating from 1895 to 1933. These beautifully preserved vehicles showcase the artistry and innovation of early automotive design, from brass-era roadsters to elegant luxury sedans. Whether you’re an automobile aficionado or just curious about the past, the collection highlights how transportation shaped the modern world.
Beyond cars, the museum boasts an impressive assortment of antique typewriters, phonographs, cameras, sewing machines, and model trains—each telling a unique story of technological progress. Step back in time as you explore intricately crafted Victorian-era home appliances, early telecommunication devices, and rare collectibles that capture the ingenuity of past generations.
Why Visit?
- Marvel at over a dozen vintage automobiles, spanning nearly four decades of automotive history
- Explore antique typewriters, cameras, and phonographs that trace the evolution of communication and entertainment
- Discover rare historical artifacts, from intricate sewing machines to early model trains
- Get a closer look at the craftsmanship and innovation that defined different eras
Whether you’re a lover of classic cars, an admirer of antique craftsmanship, or just someone who enjoys uncovering unique historical treasures, The J.A. Cooley Museum offers an unforgettable journey through time.
This San Diego Museum Month, take advantage of half-price admission and experience this one-of-a-kind collection for yourself!
6. The Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum: A Tiny World of Big Innovation
Nestled in Carlsbad, The Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum is a hidden gem that brings the art of precision engineering to life. This one-of-a-kind museum celebrates the skill, dedication, and ingenuity of model engineers who have spent countless hours crafting miniature engines, vehicles, and mechanical models with astonishing detail and accuracy.
The museum’s collection features fully functional, scaled-down replicas of classic steam engines, aircraft, automobiles, and even working clocks—all created by master machinists and craftsmen. These stunningly intricate models showcase not only fine artistry but also the brilliance of mechanical design, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the world of micro-engineering.
One of the highlights is the collection of miniature internal combustion engines, some no bigger than the palm of your hand, yet meticulously built to operate just like their full-sized counterparts. Aviation enthusiasts will be captivated by scale-model radial aircraft engines, while those interested in automobiles can admire detailed mini hot rods and race cars. The museum also houses working models of locomotives, ships, and even intricate mechanical sculptures, demonstrating the incredible skill of their creators. Plus, kids of all ages will enjoy the incredibly detailed animated music boxes. Read and listen to more here in this story from KPBS
Why Visit?
- See fully functional, handcrafted miniature engines and vehicles
- Explore the art of precision machining and model engineering
- Discover working replicas of classic cars, locomotives, aircraft, and steam engines
- Marvel at the craftsmanship behind scaled-down mechanical wonders
- Gain insight into the passion and dedication of master model makers
Whether you’re an engineering enthusiast, a model hobbyist, or simply someone who appreciates fine craftsmanship, The Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum offers a truly unique experience.
This San Diego Museum Month, don’t miss the chance to witness the power of engineering—on a miniature scale—at this always-free museum!
7. The Barona Cultural Center & Museum: Honoring the Kumeyaay Heritage
For a deeper understanding of San Diego’s Indigenous history, the Barona Cultural Center & Museum in Lakeside offers a profound and immersive look into the rich traditions, resilience, and legacy of the Kumeyaay people. As one of the few Native American-owned museums in California, this museum serves as a vital space for preserving and sharing Kumeyaay culture, language, and history with the broader community.
The museum’s exhibits showcase an impressive collection of artifacts, traditional tools, pottery, and basketry, offering a glimpse into the daily life and craftsmanship of the Kumeyaay, whose presence in the region dates back thousands of years. Visitors can explore the evolution of Kumeyaay traditions, from hunting, gathering, and agriculture to their deep spiritual connection with the land.
Interactive displays and educational programs provide insight into Kumeyaay customs, storytelling, and the significance of native plants, while the museum’s commitment to cultural preservation ensures that visitors walk away with a greater appreciation for the enduring heritage of San Diego’s first people.
Why Visit?
- Explore authentic Kumeyaay artifacts, including tools, pottery, and basketry
- Learn about Kumeyaay traditions, language, and history from a Native perspective
- Experience interactive exhibits that bring Indigenous culture to life
- Gain insight into the deep connection between the Kumeyaay and the land
- Visit one of the few Native American-owned museums in California
This San Diego Museum Month, take the opportunity to engage with the history and culture of San Diego’s first inhabitants with always-free admission. A visit to the Barona Cultural Center & Museum is not just a journey into the past—it’s a chance to appreciate the living, thriving heritage of the Kumeyaay people.
8. MULLME – Museo de Lucha Libre Mexicana: A Shrine to Lucha Libre History
For fans of high-flying action, colorful masks, and the rich tradition of Mexican wrestling, MULLME – Museo de Lucha Libre Mexicana in Tijuana is a must-visit destination. Dedicated to the history and culture of lucha libre, this museum is a treasure trove of rare artifacts, memorabilia, and iconic gear that tell the story of one of Mexico’s most beloved sports.
The museum is two museums in one. The first floor takes you on a journey through Mexican pop culture, offering an eclectic mix of toys, sci-fi collectibles, comic-themed items, and other nostalgic memorabilia. This area features a wide variety of pop culture artifacts from Mexican television, movies, comics, and fandom, giving visitors a glimpse into how Mexican popular culture has evolved over the years. With vintage toys, rare comics, and sci-fi collectibles, it’s a dream come true for anyone who appreciates the fun, quirky side of pop culture.
The second floor is where the magic of lucha libre truly comes to life. As the first and only Lucha Libre museum in Mexico, this floor is fully dedicated to the legacy of Lucha Libre. It houses a spectacular collection of lucha libre masks, costumes, photographs, and championship belts, all highlighting the iconic figures and thrilling history of the sport. Visitors can learn about the evolution of lucha libre and its profound impact on Mexican entertainment and popular culture, with special focus on legendary luchadores like El Santo, Blue Demon, and Mil Máscaras.
The museum also features an extraordinary collection of lifelike wax figures, representing Mexican icons, world leaders, and celebrities, adding a fun and interactive element to the experience.
Why Visit?
- Explore two distinct floors: the first dedicated to Mexican pop culture with toys, comics, and sci-fi memorabilia, and the second celebrating the history of lucha libre
- Discover authentic lucha libre memorabilia, including masks, costumes, and championship belts
- Learn about the evolution of lucha libre and its cultural significance
- Experience the first and only Lucha Libre museum in Mexico
- Enjoy the lifelike wax figure exhibit, featuring Mexican legends and international celebrities
This San Diego Museum Month, take a trip across the border to Tijuana and experience the vibrant world of Mexican pop culture and lucha libre at half-price admission. Whether you’re a fan of wrestling, comics, or pop culture, MULLME offers an unforgettable experience for all ages.
9. RIDING THE WAVES OF HISTORY: EXPLORE LA JOLLA SURF’S CELEBRATION OF LOCAL SURF CULTURE AND ART 🌊🏄♂️
Surfing is a way of life in San Diego, especially in La Jolla, where the ocean and its waves have become integral to the identity of the community. A new exhibition at the La Jolla Historical Society, La Jolla Surf: Culture, Art, Craft, offers a fascinating exploration of this rich history. Running through May 25, this exhibit shines a light on the figures who helped shape La Jolla’s surfing community and celebrates the deep connection between the people and the ocean.
This exciting exhibition dives into the roots of surfing culture, offering a peek into the lives of local surf legends, the evolution of surfboards, and the vibrant artistic expressions that have emerged alongside the sport. The exhibit features vintage surfboards, historical photos, and engaging stories of the individuals who made La Jolla a surfing mecca. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or simply curious about the waves of history, La Jolla Surf: Culture, Art, Craft provides a unique, immersive experience that’s sure to inspire.
Why Visit?
- Discover La Jolla’s Surf Legacy: Explore how the ocean shaped both the culture and art of this iconic community
- See Historic Surfboards & Art: Get up close to vintage surfboards, photos, and surf-inspired art
- Meet the Legends: Learn about the figures who brought surfing to La Jolla and made it the heart of Southern California surf culture
- Perfect for All Ages: Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this exhibit is a must-see for anyone who loves the ocean, art, and history
Don’t miss your chance to catch the wave of history this San Diego Museum Month! Experience the La Jolla Surf: Culture, Art, Craft exhibit and celebrate the town’s enduring surf culture.
10. The San Diego Archaeological Center: Uncover the Ancient Past of San Diego
For history buffs and anyone intrigued by the region’s ancient past, the San Diego Archaeological Center offers a fascinating journey through the prehistory and history of Southern California. Located just outside Escondido, this center is dedicated to preserving, protecting, and interpreting the region’s rich archaeological heritage. The museum’s collection includes a wealth of artifacts, tools, and pottery that date back thousands of years, providing a glimpse into the lives of indigenous peoples who once thrived in the San Diego region.
The center not only showcases artifacts from early civilizations but also houses an impressive collection of archaeological findings from local sites, including ancient coastal villages, rock art, and Native American burial sites. In addition to the exhibits, the museum often offers educational programming, hands-on workshops, and archaeology-themed events, making it an engaging experience for visitors of all ages.
Whether you’re interested in California Native cultures, prehistoric artifacts, or the latest archaeological research, the San Diego Archaeological Center provides a unique opportunity to explore the deep history of the region.
Why Visit?
- Explore ancient artifacts and tools from Southern California’s early inhabitants
- Learn about the archaeological research and findings from the region
- Attend workshops, educational programs, and events to deepen your understanding of local history
- Experience the rich cultural heritage of the native peoples of San Diego
- Immerse yourself in the world of archaeology through hands-on learning
This San Diego Museum Month, don’t miss the chance to uncover the ancient history of the region at the San Diego Archaeological Center, with half-price admission for a limited time. It’s the perfect opportunity to dive into the fascinating world of archaeology and connect with San Diego’s early past.
