Free Museums in San Diego, CA

20 places

Explore the vibrant world of San Diego's free museums, where creativity, history, and culture come together, inviting everyone to discover and connect.

This room has a good vibe

Mingei International Museum

Closed today

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4.0

Artisanship defines the Mingei International Museum, showcasing global folk and decorative arts with free access, inspiring creativity in all ages.

Black cherry

Craveology - Fleet Science Center

Opens at

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2.0

Astronomy lovers unite here during monthly stargazing events, where I enjoy clear skies and views of celestial wonders in Balboa Park.

150 Birthday Bash Sep 27, 2024

San Diego Natural History Museum

Opens at

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3.5

Discovery reigns at the San Diego Natural History Museum, showcasing our region's unique flora, fauna, and geology through engaging exhibits.

San Diego Model Railroad Museum photo

San Diego Model Railroad Museum

Closed today

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4.0

Imagination thrives at the San Diego Model Railroad Museum, where interactive train displays engage all ages and creativity sparks learning.

Air and Space Museum

San Diego Air & Space Museum

Opens at

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4.0

Aviation history comes alive here, with unique exhibits and space artifacts. Kids enjoy free admission, making exploration fun and accessible.

Photo by TravelKassel

Comic-Con Museum

Opens at

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3.0

Creativity thrives here with engaging exhibits celebrating comics and pop culture, plus special free days inviting all to explore.

San Diego Automotive Museum photo

San Diego Automotive Museum

Closed today

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3.5

Automobiles are showcased here with rare and classic models that evoke nostalgia. It's accessibly free on select days, enhancing family enjoyment.

More Mummies

Museum of Us

Opens at

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3.5

Curiosity fuels my visits to the Museum of Us, where fascinating exhibits bring human history and anthropology to life, especially on free days.

Photo by Viginian

Veterans Museum & Memorial Center

Closed today

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4.0

Heritage thrives here; it honors local veterans with compelling military history. Plus, residents enjoy free admission on special days.

Bonsai trees

Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum

Opens at

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4.0

Serenity defines the Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum, with its tranquil landscapes and rich cultural displays inviting peaceful exploration.

one of the five galleries

Timken Museum of Art

Closed today

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4.5

Exploration of timeless masterpieces awaits at the Timken, with its free entry providing access to exceptional European and American art in Balboa Park.

Centro Cultural de la Raza photo

Centro Cultural de la Raza

Closed today

Cultural vibrancy defines Centro Cultural de la Raza, where Chicano and Native American heritage come alive through free exhibits year-round.

Día de los Muertos

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

Opens at

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4.0

Tradition breathes life here with preserved buildings that showcase San Diego's origins, making it a rich tapestry of local history to explore.

Photo by masayu777

San Diego Art Institute

Closed today

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2.5

Inclusivity stands out here with free admission for everyone, fostering engagement with contemporary art in a vibrant park setting.

Museum of Photographic Arts Store photo

Museum of Photographic Arts Store

Closed today

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4.0

Vision captures the essence of storytelling through photography, and the access options make it welcoming to all communities and individuals.

Craft Beer History in San Diego

San Diego History Center

Closed today

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Rich in narratives, the San Diego History Center unveils the city's past through engaging exhibits and a community-oriented approach.

Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial photo

Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial

Open until

Panoramic vistas from Mt. Soledad provide a stunning backdrop, celebrating veterans while offering breathtaking views of San Diego's coastline.

The right hand part of the building is the museum.

Bonita Museum & Cultural Center

Closed today

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4.0

Accessibility defines this cultural hub, offering free admission year-round and special programs for families, encouraging community engagement.

Coronado Historical Association

Coronado Historical Association

Closed today

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4.5

Sustainability draws me to the Museum of History and Art, where I can enjoy free admission and discover Coronado's rich past with my family.

J. A. Cooley Museum photo

J. A. Cooley Museum

Opens at

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5.0

Treasure trove of vintage autos and memorabilia, J. A. Cooley Museum offers free or reduced admission, making history fun and accessible for families.