San Diego Museums & History
Clearly the museums that are found in a particular geographic area reflect the industries and influences that have contributed to the development and success of the region. That is definitely true of the museums that tell the stories of San Diego's association with (and proximity to) the Pacific Ocean. Also, you can find museums that offer interesting perspectives and accounts of such diverse subjects as art, natural history and even aviation. So whatever interests you or peaks your interest in San Diego, the history and continuing story can most likely be found in one of these fine museums.
San Diego's
Maritime Museum has consistently maintained a level of excellence in restoring, maintaining and operating historic, vintage vessels. You will marvel at the museum's collection of historic ships, including the world's oldest active ship named Star of India. These ships are available for daily public tours, and the knowledgeable guides will give you amazing accounts and detailed information on the individual histories of these remarkable floating structures that made discovery and commerce possible several hundred years ago.
Address: 1492 North Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101 - MAP
Phone: (619) 234-9153
Web: www.sdmaritime.org
The
Museum of Contemporary Art in San Diego continuously strives to bring cutting edge exhibits and programs that will be as attention-getting as they are thought-provoking. The museum's mission statement states that it is dedicated to the exploration and presentation of the art of our time, specifically presenting works in all media created since 1950. Art deco-styled, iconic creations sit alongside lesser-known but no less compelling pieces, and the museum impressively features a large number of exhibit spaces. The venue also works hard to continue to present a schedule of not-to-be-missed presentations throughout the year.
Address: 1100 Kettner Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92101 - MAP
Phone: (858) 454-3541
Web: www.mcasd.org
Given San Diego's rich history of naval air stations in the city, it is only fitting that the San Diego
Air and Space Museum commemorate the association with a special exhibit that marks the city as the birthplace of naval aviation. Plus, the kids will love the 3D/4D theater, the Kids' Aviation Action Hangar and the various exhibits that focus on space travel and how rockets are launched. Your kids (and you) will have so much fun. You won't even realize how much you're learning!
Address: 2001 Pan American Plaza, San Diego, CA 92101 - MAP
Phone: (619) 234-8291
Web: www.sandiegoairandspace.org
The San Diego
Museum of Man makes it completely clear that their entire focus is "all about people." From prehistoric relics through man's development into the complex creature into which he has evolved, the museum does a dramatic and highly visual journey to illustrate the many faces of the species. Come explore mummies, the human skeleton, as well as several special, interactive presentations. And no matter what artifact or exhibit you remember, the Museum of Man holds true to its mission statement of collecting, preserving, interpreting and communicating the history of man's fascinating existence.
Address: 1350 El Prado, Balboa Park, San Diego, CA 92101 - MAP
Phone: (619) 239-2001
Web: www.museumofman.org
If a picture is worth a thousand words, then get ready for a novel's worth of images at San Diego's
Museum of Photographic Arts. Since 1983, the MoPA, a shortened form of the museum's moniker, has been devoted to collecting, conserving and exhibiting the largest spectrum possible of various photographic mediums. This not only includes photography, but also film and video, as well. MoPA consistently works to address the cultural, historical and social issues in their excellent exhibits and public programs. The museum is also accredited by the American Association of Museums. So visit MoPA soon for an incredible number of amazing photo-opportunities!
Address: 1649 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101 - MAP
Phone: (619) 238-8777
Web: www.mopa.org
The
Timken Museum of Art can be characterized as small, but potent. While the building is not sprawling or as expansive as you would expect, what you find inside makes the size of the building unimportant. The artwork presented is of a scope so large and encompassing, you'll be transported to a different time and place. The museum preserves the Putnam Foundation Collection of European and American art for the education and benefit of current and future generations. The Timken prides itself in continuing to nurture the creative spirit that this art stirs in all of us.
Address: 1500 El Prado, Balboa Park, San Diego, CA 92101 - MAP
Phone: (619) 239-5548
Web: www.timkenmuseum.org
