Friday Nights in Balboa Park: Where Culture Meets Summer Vibes
There’s no better way to spend a summer Friday than in Balboa Park, where museums stay open late, the air is warm, and the energy is just right. Whether you’re looking for an inspiring cultural experience, a delicious dinner under the stars, or live music to wind down your week, Balboa Park has something for everyone.
Make it a full evening by starting with $5 admission after 5 p.m. at places like the Mingei International Museum and the San Diego Natural History Museum, where you can explore world-class exhibitions and enjoy rooftop views or interactive displays. Then, head over to Panama 66, tucked into the San Diego Museum of Art’s May S. Marcy Sculpture Court. This beloved outdoor venue offers craft cocktails, locally sourced dishes, and live music in an unforgettable setting surrounded by sculpture and Spanish Colonial architecture.
With extended museum hours, beautiful park views, and a lively mix of art, food, and music, Friday nights in Balboa Park are a San Diego summer tradition you won’t want to miss. Bring friends, a date, or just yourself—and let the park set the tone for your weekend.
Friday Nights at Balboa Park – Mingei is the Place to Be!
It’s official! Mingei is THE place to be on Friday nights. This summer, join the FUN for Five After Five—$5 admission to our Exhibitions Level after 5pm on Friday nights!
From 5-8 pm, explore folk art, craft, and design on view, enjoy a drink or meal with ARTIFACT at Mingei, and browse Shop Mingei for hand-crafted goods. Bring a date, a friend, or enjoy peaceful solitude at Mingei International Museum!
Exhibitions on view:
🧵 Fashioning an Icon: Virgin of Guadalupe Imagery in Textile Design
🌟 Student Craft 2025: Icons
🥄 Across the Spooniverse
✏️ Historic Footprints: Native American Ledger Drawing from Fort Marion
🪡 Layered Narratives: Quilted Stories of Gender and Race at the 1876 Centennial
🌀 Tuck and Roll: The Art of Armadillos — Free Entry Level
Purchase tickets ahead of time at Mingei.org/Whats-On
Mingei Members and visitors under the age of 17 receive free admission.
Mingei International Museum
The newly renovated Mingei International Museum offers a great Friday night experience at the Park. ARTIFACT at Mingei features craft cooking inspired by ancient methods, spices and botanicals. Located on the Commons level of the Museum, enjoy indoor or outdoor seating options surrounded by inspiring art. Dinner and drinks are served from 5 to 8 p.m. and Reservations are strongly recommended. See the latest menu here.
San Diego Natural History Museum
Friday Nights Just Got Wilder!
Kick off your weekend with Nat at Night—Fridays, all summer long! Enjoy half-priced admission after 5 p.m., access to all exhibitions, and sunset views from the museum’s rooftop deck. Sip on curated beverages and enjoy small plates by Wolf in the Woods as you take in the beauty of Balboa Park after dark.
While you’re there, don’t miss the all-new, immersive experience Amazement in the Basement—now open! Go behind the scenes into The Nat’s vaults and collections, explore rarely seen specimens, and watch real scientists at work in the Paleo Lab. It’s the biggest and most expansive exhibition The Nat has launched in years—and a must-see this summer.
🎟 Get your tickets now at sdnhm.org.
As always, members of The Nat and Explorer pass holders receive free general admission.
Make the evening even better with cocktails, dinner and live music at Panama 66, located in the San Diego Museum of Art May S. Marcy Sculpture Court.
Panama 66: Dinner, Drinks, and Live Music Under the Stars
No Friday night in Balboa Park is complete without a stop at Panama 66, the open-air restaurant and bar located in the May S. Marcy Sculpture Court at the San Diego Museum of Art. Set against a backdrop of stunning sculpture and historic architecture, Panama 66 offers a relaxed, al fresco dining experience that captures the spirit of San Diego.
Enjoy craft cocktails, locally brewed beer, and a seasonally inspired menu featuring fresh, flavorful ingredients. As the sun sets, live music fills the courtyard—creating the perfect atmosphere for a laid-back evening with friends, a romantic dinner, or a solo moment of calm. Whether you’re wrapping up a night of museum-hopping or simply looking for a great spot to unwind, Panama 66 is a must-visit destination every Friday night.
Japanese Friendship Garden
Hit the Park before the sun sets on Friday evening and enjoy the peaceful tranquility of the Japanese Friendship Garden. The garden was established as an expression of friendship with our first sister city, Yokohama, Japan. Design elements stem from ancient principles of Japanese garden design and express an appreciation for our two cultures through nature. The garden is open until 7 p.m. (last entry at 6 p.m.).
The Prado: Iconic Dining in the Heart of the Park
Looking to elevate your Friday night in Balboa Park? The Prado is a beloved destination for those who want to pair their cultural adventures with an exceptional dining experience. Located in the historic House of Hospitality, this award-winning restaurant offers a warm blend of old-world charm and modern flair, with both elegant indoor seating and lush outdoor patios.
The menu features innovative California cuisine with global influences, perfect for a romantic date night or a celebratory dinner with friends. Want to start your evening off right? Join The Prado’s e-Cuisine Club and enjoy a free appetizer on your first visit. With its beautiful setting, creative dishes, and welcoming vibe, The Prado is the perfect way to complete your Friday night in Balboa Park.
