San Diego: Nighttime at the San Diego Natural History Museum

As the sun dips below the horizon, the San Diego Natural History Museum comes alive with a captivating nighttime experience. Visitors can explore rarely seen artifacts, witness the museum’s remarkable citizen science history, and enjoy captivating films – all while enjoying the breathtaking views from the rooftop deck. With discounted admission after 5 PM on select Fridays, this nighttime oasis offers a unique opportunity to see the museum’s permanent exhibitions in a new light and discover the hidden gems that lie within. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the night at the San Diego Natural History Museum promises to be an unforgettable adventure.

This experience made our list of the 12 Best Historical Tours In San Diego.

Key Points

• The museum offers discounted admission after 5 PM on Fridays through Labor Day, allowing visitors to explore exhibits at a reduced cost during evening hours.
• Nighttime exhibitions and programs include the ‘Unshelved: Cool Stuff from Storage’ exhibit, giant-screen theater films, and a variety of evening events and activities.
• Permanent exhibitions like ‘Coast to Cactus in Southern California’ and ‘Fossil Mysteries’ take on a new perspective under evening lighting, with fewer crowds for a more immersive experience.
• The museum’s rooftop deck offers breathtaking views of Balboa Park and the San Diego skyline, providing a perfect setting for stargazing events and relaxation.
• Dining and refreshment options, including bars on every level and the Flying Squirrel Café, cater to visitors’ needs to keep their energy up while exploring the museum at night.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Nighttime Admission and Pricing

The museum offers discounted admission after 5 PM on Fridays through Labor Day, providing visitors an opportunity to explore the exhibits at a reduced cost during the evening hours.

This discounted admission is perfect for those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed museum experience. Visitors can reserve their tickets in advance and pay later, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free entry.

The museum is open for one full day, allowing guests to take their time and enjoy the vast array of exhibitions and programs.

Whether you’re interested in the permanent displays or the rotating films, the San Diego Natural History Museum has a lot to offer to enjoy during the nighttime hours.

Exhibitions and Programs at Night

Visitors to the San Diego Natural History Museum can enjoy a variety of engaging exhibitions and programs during the evening hours.

The museum’s ‘Unshelved: Cool Stuff from Storage’ exhibit offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at rarely displayed artifacts, while the ‘Extraordinary Ideas from Ordinary People: A History of Citizen Science’ installation explores the remarkable contributions of amateur scientists.

Plus, the museum’s Giant-Screen Theater screens captivating films such as ‘Shark Kingdom’ and ‘FUNGI’ late into the night, providing an immersive cinematic experience.

After exploring the exhibits, visitors can enjoy:

• Drinks at the bars on every level
• Dinner at the Flying Squirrel Café
• Trivia and other evening events
• Panoramic views from the rooftop deck
• The mesmerizing Foucault pendulum demonstration

Permanent Exhibitions After Dark

As the sun sets, the permanent exhibitions at the San Diego Natural History Museum come alive with a captivating ambiance.

Visitors can explore the ‘Coast to Cactus in Southern California’ display, which showcases the diverse ecosystems of the region, or marvel at the prehistoric fossils in the ‘Fossil Mysteries‘ exhibit under the warm glow of the evening lighting.

The ‘Extraordinary Ideas from Ordinary People: A History of Citizen Science’ exhibit takes on a new perspective, highlighting the contributions of everyday individuals to scientific discovery.

Roaming the dimly lit halls, guests can discover the secrets of the museum’s collection in the ‘Unshelved: Cool Stuff from Storage‘ display.

With fewer crowds after hours, visitors can fully enjoy the museum’s permanent exhibitions.

Rotating Films and Night Shows

Along With its permanent exhibitions, the San Diego Natural History Museum offers a rotating selection of films and night shows that captivate visitors.

From stunning documentaries about the underwater world to immersive experiences that transport viewers through geological time, the museum’s Giant-Screen Theater provides an unforgettable cinematic journey.

Visitors can enjoy:

• Shark Kingdom, a thrilling exploration of the ocean’s apex predators
• FUNGI, a mind-expanding look at the hidden realm of mushrooms and molds
• Ocean Oasis, a visually stunning celebration of the Pacific coastal ecosystems
• T. rex, a gripping encounter with the legendary ‘king of the dinosaurs’

Special night shows that showcase the museum’s collection in a whole new light.

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Events and Activities in the Evening

The San Diego Natural History Museum comes alive in the evening with an array of engaging events and activities that cater to visitors seeking a unique after-hours experience.

On select Fridays through Labor Day, the museum offers discounted admission after 5 PM, inviting guests to explore its exhibitions at a leisurely pace.

Among the offerings are special trivia nights, where teams can test their knowledge on a variety of natural history topics.

The rooftop deck provides a breathtaking setting for stargazing events, while the Foucault pendulum offers a mesmerizing display of the Earth’s rotation.

With bars on every level and the Flying Squirrel Café, the museum ensures visitors can refuel and unwind during their evening visit.

Museum’s 150th Anniversary Celebration

Celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2024, the San Diego Natural History Museum has planned a series of special exhibits and events to commemorate this milestone, enchanting visitors with a captivating look into the museum’s rich history and enduring legacy.

‘Action from the Archives: The Nat at 150’, a captivating exhibition showcasing the museum’s remarkable collection and stories from the past 150 years.

Engaging live talks and presentations by curators and experts, providing a unique insider’s perspective.

Exclusive behind-the-scenes tours, offering a rare glimpse into the museum’s inner workings.

Fun trivia nights and interactive activities to test visitors’ knowledge.

Special discounts and promotional offers to make the celebration accessible to all.

Dining and Refreshment Options

Visitors to the San Diego Natural History Museum can satisfy their hunger and thirst at the various dining and refreshment options available throughout the museum.

Bars on every level offer a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, allowing guests to quench their thirst as they explore the exhibits.

The Flying Squirrel Café, situated within the museum, serves a selection of light meals, snacks, and refreshments for those seeking a quick bite to eat during their visit.

Whether looking to grab a drink or a quick snack, the museum’s amenities cater to the needs of visitors, ensuring they can keep their energy up as they explore the fascinating exhibits and displays.

Visiting the Rooftop Deck

One of the highlights of a visit to the San Diego Natural History Museum is exploring the rooftop deck, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding Balboa Park and the city skyline beyond.

As the sun sets, the rooftop comes alive with a lively atmosphere. Visitors can stroll along the observation deck, taking in sights such as:

• The iconic California Tower and Museum of Man
• Lush landscaping and fountains of Balboa Park
• Downtown San Diego’s glittering high-rises
• The historic Spreckels Organ Pavilion
• The distant silhouette of the Coronado Bridge

Whether enjoying a cocktail from one of the on-site bars or simply soaking in the breathtaking vistas, the rooftop deck is an essential stop for anyone exploring the museum after dark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Pets Allowed Inside the Museum?

Pets are generally not allowed inside the San Diego Natural History Museum, with the exception of service animals that assist individuals with disabilities. Visitors are advised to leave their pets at home for the comfort and safety of all museum guests.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

No, visitors can’t bring their own food and drinks into the San Diego Natural History Museum. However, the museum offers several food and beverage options, including bars on every level and the Flying Squirrel Café, where guests can purchase refreshments.

Is There Parking Available On-Site?

The San Diego Natural History Museum offers on-site parking for visitors. There are several parking lots surrounding the museum, and guests can pay for parking upon arrival or use pre-paid options. The parking facilities provide easy access to the museum’s main entrance.

Do You Offer Guided Tours in the Evening?

The San Diego Natural History Museum offers guided tours during the evening hours on Fridays through Labor Day. Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits and attractions with the guidance of knowledgeable docents during the discounted admission time.

What Is the Attire Recommended for Visiting at Night?

The museum recommends casual, comfortable attire for evening visits. Guests can expect a relaxed, social atmosphere with bars, cafes, and activities available. Dressing for the weather and comfort is advised to fully enjoy the museum’s nighttime offerings.

Recap

The San Diego Natural History Museum offers a unique nighttime experience with discounted admission, rarely displayed artifacts, citizen science history, captivating films, and a rooftop deck with breathtaking views of Balboa Park.

Visitors can explore the permanent exhibitions under evening lighting and enjoy dining and refreshment options, making it an ideal destination to celebrate the museum’s 150th anniversary.

You can check availability for your dates here: