Local Guides World
Top History museums in San Diego, United States
Top Rated History museums in San Diego
Top Reviewed History museums in San Diego
Balboa Park
Balboa Park
San Diego History Center
Balboa Park
Whaley House Museum
Maritime Museum of San Diego
MCRD San Diego Command Museum
New Americans Museum
The San Diego Veterans Museum
Reviews
Such a great, historic place to visit! Jack, the President, was a very informative tour guide who took us all around the museum. There were many great artifacts from WW2 and so much information about it. Would recommend for a quick stop in Balboa Park.
Would have been nice if the manager wasn’t rude the whole time… not sure why everything is an emergency and why he feels like he is doing us a favor, btw we paid to use this venue! I could maybe understand if we didn’t treat the facility well… but he just started with an attitude. I don’t think he knows what customer service is!
Visited this museum while attending my little brothers Boot Camp ( marine) graduation with family. Really enjoyed.
The museum itself has some interesting displays including; the remains of an 'unexploded' torpedo, a Lego version of the HMS Enterprise, and the ability to view the engine area and bridge of the museum itself, situated in the Berkeley steam powered ferry. This in addition to scale models, ships wheel, posters, and other maritime historic pieces.
But, what I like most about the Maritime Museum of San Diego is the presence and ability to go on historical vessels and replicas.
Although the museum is partially accessible for the disabled, this is more a museum for able bodied individuals. You should set aside 3-4 hours to completely tour and enjoy all the ships and see all the things to be seen.
Oddly, the Medea (a sailing yacht) is not identified separately and is considered part of the museum, unlike the other vessels accessible here.
But, what I like most about the Maritime Museum of San Diego is the presence and ability to go on historical vessels and replicas.
Although the museum is partially accessible for the disabled, this is more a museum for able bodied individuals. You should set aside 3-4 hours to completely tour and enjoy all the ships and see all the things to be seen.
Oddly, the Medea (a sailing yacht) is not identified separately and is considered part of the museum, unlike the other vessels accessible here.
This was such a fun and unique museum, I've been raving about it to everyone! Very informative and so much to see and I really enjoyed the experience of being on each vessel and learning so much about them. Highly recommend, it was a wonderful way to spend an afternoon!
We had access to this museum during our all access pass visit, but there was a ceremony going on inside and the exhibit was closed to the general public. Nice statuary outside.
Visiting the Maritime Museum was an exhilarating experience, especially for anyone with a fascination for boats. The museum's collection of vessels offers a captivating journey through maritime history. From majestic tall ships to sleek modern boats, there's something to capture the imagination of visitors of all ages. Exploring the exhibits felt like stepping back in time and witnessing the evolution of seafaring technology firsthand. The attention to detail in preserving and showcasing these maritime treasures is truly commendable. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or simply curious about maritime history, the Maritime Museum promises an enriching and exciting experience. It's a must-visit destination for anyone with a passion for the sea and its vessels.
Stopped here with only a little bit of time before my flight home. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and had answers to all of the questions posed by our group. His enthusiasm for history and ghosts made it a lot of fun. The artifacts room was really incredible, and sitting in the "courtroom" was surreal! Really neat house full of haunted history!
Great collection of ships to explore. Each vessel has a unique place in history. We were there during the period of heavy rains in early February 24 and the Submarine was closed. I really wanted to see that, but I understand that they have to protect these ships. We found close by parking so it was easy access. Well worth your time for a visit.
If you have heard the phrase where someone said "they know their ropes" well, the picture I've posted is the names of the ropes on the "Star of India", it's no small task to "know your ropes."
If you have heard the phrase where someone said "they know their ropes" well, the picture I've posted is the names of the ropes on the "Star of India", it's no small task to "know your ropes."
It's a great experience to the past. Craftsmanship and woodworking just blew me away. Fun time for the kids and get ready for lots of walking, up and down. We had a great time.
Booked the evening tour. It was fun and cool to know the history. Based on my friend that did the tour for the second time they have more insights the last time they went. Also we found out that they tour rooms in the morning that not available in the evening tour and if it’s not crowded. Still fun but hoping that could’ve seen the other rooms.
We've visited the Maritime Museum a few times and the displays are really interesting and educational. Seeing and being able to go on board the historic (and replica) ships is really awesome. On our most recent visit, we did the harbor tour aboard the historic Pilot Boat, which was a lot of fun. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable, so even as a local, he kept it interesting.
Interesting history to this place. Started with an introduction by a guide, then it was self guided at your own pace. Friendly guide and very informative. We did not encounter any spirits on our tour or photos.
I love the staff members we had on 11/19/2023 they were very informative and supportive. Made my family feel comfortable, especially when my 13 year old son got sea sick. We all got to experience a wonderful time sailing beautiful San Diego!
FYI we ended up walking in to the museum that same day and buying tickets for the California boat, since there were opening for aboard.
For a family of 4; ( 13yr 2 adults and a 1 year old ) we paid $420
FYI we ended up walking in to the museum that same day and buying tickets for the California boat, since there were opening for aboard.
For a family of 4; ( 13yr 2 adults and a 1 year old ) we paid $420
The Maritime Museum of San Diego is an awesome place to visit. Apart from the fleet of several magnificent original and replica vessels to explore at your leisure, the museum boasts an impressive maritime collection with more models, displays, stories, recreations and memorabilia than I could take in. I spent about 3 hours, and that was without joining a bay tour. I entered the museum at opening on a Sunday (10am), so it was not crowded. I enjoyed being the only person aboard the Medea, watching the San Salvador replica glide into dock. A visit to the museum would be a fascinating, entertaining and educational outing for kids and adults alike. The general admission price is relatively inexpensive at $20 (no cash accepted).
It has a nice peaceful courtyard area. The inside is nice. I wish the restaurant was open & the museum store had items that weren't only related to witchcraft. Otherwise, I highly recommend walking through.
Used to work here YEARS ago. Really loved seeing more family artifacts and portraits/photos than before. Annabelle was an excellent guide. Will definitely go again the next time I'm in town to see what new items y'all have on display.
Balboa Park is a captivating blend of art, culture, and nature. The architectural charm and vibrant gardens create a visually enchanting atmosphere. The diverse array of museums ensures there's something for every interest, making it a must-visit destination in San Diego.
The museum docents do a 30 minute tour of the grounds outside, then give a spiel about the interior inside the courtroom and more history. After that, you're free to go around the house at your pace. Take photos. Talk with the docent near the exit of you have questions or want to learn more.
This is one of the happiest places on earth. This is the largest public park in America, yes even bigger than Central Park. It includes a velodrome, a zoo, museums, many gardens, a golf course, a disc golf, course, and much much more. There are Oregon pavilion concerts every Sunday at 2 PM and there’s always something beautiful happening in the park. You can picnic here and work out here. You can be a tourist here or just enjoy the smell of roses, and the beautiful eucalyptus trees. I absolutely love this park, and everyone that visits will too.
Such a big park! The old buildings are really cool, the sports complex is neat, and you can spend an entire day here and not see everything. Good foresight on the city to protect this land.
Gorgeous all around. I wish I had taken a.picture of the huge Magnolia tree and the artists village but definitely a must visit spot when in San Diego. I highly recommend and will be visiting again💯
Unfortunately, it was almost closing, and we had to hurry. The house is very cool, the history is interesting and I would love to go back, unfortunately was my last day there so I had to go with only 15 minutes left. I thought the lady in the beginning was very unpolite with a costumer that was taking pictures, and she thought the visitor was recording a video and she told her to stop recording in a very rude way. Very rude way. Very very very. I wish the visitor was really recording so I could post it here.
This is such a beautiful area with so much to explore! Even if you don't go into any of the museums, gardens or any other venue inside it is a great place to just walk around! Has a great cluster of buildings from all different nations, interesting!
I visited the Whaley House Museum with my university for a Ghost tour, and it was an amazing experience. The storytelling and acting were fantastic, and the historical house itself is absolutely beautiful. It made for a captivating visit and a memorable experience.
Great place to check out some beautiful architecture or take a walk through nature. Walking around the park is free, there are museums, the zoo and a beautiful Japanese garden that charge for admission but even just going for a walk through the park is nice. On the weekends there are performers and small arts and crafts shops by the fountain.
This park boasts incredible historical significance, though I regret not having the chance to explore its entirety. The architecture and layout of the park are truly captivating. I sincerely hope I have the opportunity to visit again in the future.
This is a huge park! There are a lot of museums for you to explore. If you come early you can take wonderful pictures by yourself. You see people running here in the mornings. There is plenty of parking. Theres even a place in the park where you are allowed to drink.
There's a lot to see and do, for every price range. If you're low on funds, just walk through the park and look at the beautiful architecture, the Bell Tower, and the old globe dome. Balboa Park was built for the World's Fair a long time ago, and it's Spanish architecture. The photos I posted are specifically from the Japanese Friendship Garden which is in Balboa Park. There is a fee to get in however.
So much to see and do. A few hours is not enough. The botanical gardens are currently closed but there are a multitude of gardens to take in including a Cactus Garden, the Japanese Gardens, a hall of trres with the biggest magnolias you've ever seen and so much more. Visit a museum of any variety. There are a lot of things to pay for and do. Or you cab just take in the beauty.
"I recently visited Balboa Park in San Diego, and it's truly a gem of a destination. My favorite part of the park is undoubtedly the art side.
The art side of Balboa Park is a haven for art enthusiasts. With world-class museums and galleries, it offers a rich cultural experience. The Spanish Village Art Center is a particular standout, with its charming studios and talented artists showcasing their work. The variety of art, from paintings to sculptures, is impressive and provides something for everyone to appreciate.
Walking through the lush gardens and historic architecture of the park on the way to these art attractions adds to the overall experience. The park's atmosphere is both relaxing and inspiring, making it the perfect setting for exploring art.
I highly recommend Balboa Park to anyone who appreciates art and culture. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in creativity and beauty while enjoying the natural surroundings. A visit to the art side of Balboa Park is an enriching and delightful experience that I look forward to repeating in the future."
The art side of Balboa Park is a haven for art enthusiasts. With world-class museums and galleries, it offers a rich cultural experience. The Spanish Village Art Center is a particular standout, with its charming studios and talented artists showcasing their work. The variety of art, from paintings to sculptures, is impressive and provides something for everyone to appreciate.
Walking through the lush gardens and historic architecture of the park on the way to these art attractions adds to the overall experience. The park's atmosphere is both relaxing and inspiring, making it the perfect setting for exploring art.
I highly recommend Balboa Park to anyone who appreciates art and culture. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in creativity and beauty while enjoying the natural surroundings. A visit to the art side of Balboa Park is an enriching and delightful experience that I look forward to repeating in the future."
Beautiful building structures and a bunch of Museums to visit. If you do a simple search, you can see some have free days. It’s a beautiful walk at night as some of the building have a light shining at them.
I did attempt to go to the haunted trail, so it isn’t there quite yet, maybe in October.
This park is one of the must visit spots, doesn’t cost a dime. I highly recommend it for tourist or family visiting in a weekend.
I did attempt to go to the haunted trail, so it isn’t there quite yet, maybe in October.
This park is one of the must visit spots, doesn’t cost a dime. I highly recommend it for tourist or family visiting in a weekend.
You could spend a week at the park to see everything. Did air & Space museum & visited various cottages with different nations. So much to see.
Highly recommend as part of your visit to San Diego
Highly recommend as part of your visit to San Diego
This is the best city park in the country! Full of museums and beautiful architecture as well as landscaping. The Lilly pond and botanical garden are the highlight of the park. A must if you're in San Diego!
Nice park with 2 expos that held here. As a results, the historical building and museum along with impressive garden are spread around. Music performance, park, restaurants, it’s a place to chill and spend lovely time with friends. It’s larger than I expected. Love this place.
Best place to visit with kids, family and friends.
Balboa Park is a 1,200-acre (490 ha) historic urban cultural park in San Diego, California, United States.
In addition to open space areas, natural vegetation zones, green belts, gardens, and walking paths, it contains museums, several theaters, and the San Diego Zoo.
most its regular 4 to 5 hours if you want to cover all area.
Balboa Park is a 1,200-acre (490 ha) historic urban cultural park in San Diego, California, United States.
In addition to open space areas, natural vegetation zones, green belts, gardens, and walking paths, it contains museums, several theaters, and the San Diego Zoo.
most its regular 4 to 5 hours if you want to cover all area.
What a great park.
We drove all the way in nearby the Japanese Friendship Garden. There is a parking lot there, but it's really really busy we drove a bit to find parking when someone left.
The sculpting of the building is amazing. Really well designed. The entire area is clean. There are bathrooms and a restaurant as well, all clean.
There is an area for an organ piano. They were rehearsing when we were there, and it sounds amazing.
The museum has a clock on top, and it plays music on the hour I think.
Overall really worth visiting. Lots of green, scenary, and museum items to see.
We drove all the way in nearby the Japanese Friendship Garden. There is a parking lot there, but it's really really busy we drove a bit to find parking when someone left.
The sculpting of the building is amazing. Really well designed. The entire area is clean. There are bathrooms and a restaurant as well, all clean.
There is an area for an organ piano. They were rehearsing when we were there, and it sounds amazing.
The museum has a clock on top, and it plays music on the hour I think.
Overall really worth visiting. Lots of green, scenary, and museum items to see.
Balboa park is an awesome experience if you are in the San Diego area. Its full of museums, the zoo and nature walks. Lots of amazing stone architecture and food. Plenty of parking throughout, but be sure to get in early or it will fill up. A tram is available to explore the very large park. A multi museum pass is available on the Balboa park website but it no longer includes the Comic Con Museum.
Such a beautiful park! There’s free parking all around and plenty of it! The grounds are meticulously kept clean and the center point looks like a fun hang out spot. If I lived in San Diego I’d join everyone else in bringing my dog here. Definitely make the stop here and spend an hour or two. I think it’s worth it.
A magical experience, the place offers a wide variety of interesting museums and restaurants.
extremely clean!
gives a pleasant feeling and thanks to this you can walk here for whole days and not get tired.
Highly recommended for families with young and bigger children.
When visiting the place you can also be impressed by beautiful architectural buildings.
extremely clean!
gives a pleasant feeling and thanks to this you can walk here for whole days and not get tired.
Highly recommended for families with young and bigger children.
When visiting the place you can also be impressed by beautiful architectural buildings.
I went on a wrong day so it was empty. Really good for people who want to understand the impact of cultural diversity.
Wasn't able to see the museum. Didn't see anything on the website about requirements for entering. Although I had my ID and 95 year old father only had one idea. Staff was very friendly and gave us other ideas for museums in the area. I thought they could have made an exception for him, due to his age and being a former marine.
(I'm sure the requirements for entering are on their website) So, I could only give 3 stars. I'm sure the museum is a 5.
(I'm sure the requirements for entering are on their website) So, I could only give 3 stars. I'm sure the museum is a 5.
Small but great museum and friendly staff. Good information for all ages
I really liked this small museum, as names says it is dedicated to immigrant's stories. It has very informative map
This is a small museum 5 rooms that is packed with a lot of content and items to read and see. It does a nice job honoring vets. There are some items that are very unique, such as the communication device used during Vietnam to talk to amateur radio operators to get messages from individual troops to loved ones
What really made the visit special was the commentary provided by the president of the museum. His insights and personal story added a heightened dimension to the museum!
It's a hidden gem in San Diego.
What really made the visit special was the commentary provided by the president of the museum. His insights and personal story added a heightened dimension to the museum!
It's a hidden gem in San Diego.
Nice little place, about what you expect with a donation only entrance. I think that it felt a little more like an art museum where there was huge amounts of space not efficiently utilized. If the goal was history of San Diego, there were things that met that goal; however, a great deal more could have been added. A better diversification of information instead of micro focus on a few things would be much better.
The entire MCRD San Diego was a positive experience, finally seeing where our Marine had spent the past three months. We had a little hiccup upon entering the base because if forgotten about my pepper spray I'm my purse. They search your vehicle and all your bags before entering the base. My husband had to leave and dispose of it. The kids and I were directed to a bench area to wait for him. Seeing our Marine on family day and graduation day was the best part of our visit to MCRD obviously. Eating in the food court and shopping in the MCX mall (zero tax on base). The mall was a surprise we didn't expect.. we also visited the grocery store and the gift shop. We loaded up on proud marine family clothes lol. Got a personal tour from our Marine through the museum and other buildings. Made all the stress I'd felt about my oldest being away at boot camp melt away somehow.
Wow! What a lovely place! I would recommend everyone go! To learn more about our nation’s military history. The building is a former chapel of the former Veteran’s hospital with beautiful stained glass windows. When we arrived, Jack Hawkins gave us some history privately for about 20 minutes! It was wonderful. He is so knowledgeable! We then toured the building. There is so much military history there. It’s amazing. And very moving. To know that these men and women served our country. For us. For our freedom.
Had the most amazing time here and was lucky enough to receive a wonderful tour. The price to get in is affordable. The artifacts are great! If you live in the San Diego area, are visiting, or are stationed here while in the service...please consider visiting this beautiful museum!
Very interesting museum/church that holds a treasure trove of artifacts and original art. It's easy to lose yourself in all the WWI, WWII, Korean War and Vietnam War items and information. We visited the venue for a fun Sunday evening swing dance event with a full orchestra and two singers; nice hardwood floor for dancing. Bathrooms and drinking fountain on the premises.
Just when I think there is no more art form left to discover, something pops up and tingles my senses.
An absolutely amazing place. Very well done. My son took me here during his family day graduation! He was a very proud Marine!!
Amazing, educational, beautiful and definitely worth checking out. Found out so many things about the making and building of Balboa park and the city of san diego itself. Every last person who works here and or volunteers here were absolutely off the charts. Extremely helpful and courteous. There is so much to check out here. Just make sure you plan ahead of time because its alot to check out and take in.
Wow. Small yet mazing place. Please check it out.
had exhibition there for my school, great space
Located within liberty station.
A visit to the MCRD museum really enriched our experience on Family Day. In addition to the usual historical displays, the artwork was a happy surprise. During our visit in February 2019, there was a series of paintings depicting the Mexican-American war for California done by a retired Marine colonel in a style similar to Frederic Remington's Western paintings, and a photo essay "Why I am a Marine" from Afghanistan 2009.
My cousin graduated on January 11th 2019, and we had an awesome time, great prices
We so enjoyed our guided tour of the Museum! It's something you don't want to miss while you are on base. These young men really take pride in being able to share all they've learned during the 13week vacation 😁
Magnificent and intriguing historical displays for the young and old. Can take a self-guided tour. Be prepared to have a quick background check to get on the base where the museum is located. Well worth the time and effort.
Lots of things to learn great place to visit
Really fun, I love walking through the time events the Hands-On ones Superfund to guess the smells and the sounds they even have an LGBT area
Quick facts:
Size: Small
Price: $5 (Adults)
Est. Time in Museum: 30 - 45 minutes
Recommended for: History Buffs, Adults
Exhibits focus primarily on individual stories of veterans by showcasing stories and artifacts of their time in service rather than an overall history lesson of certain wars or battles. When I went in October 2018 they had a special Korean War exhibit recreating a typical foxhole and some actual war artifacts from the Chinese army. There was a section dedicated to women in the military in the back and a section discussing the military history of balboa park during World War 1. Although exhibits do change throughout the year.The rest of the museum focuses on stories of individual veterans of wars from World War 1 to the present. There are some unique and unusual artifacts that even those interested in military history have probably never seen or heard of before. Only recommended for those with a strong interest in military history otherwise the casual museum patron might not find it particularly interesting. But since the entrance fee is only $5, I would still recommend it for a visit
Size: Small
Price: $5 (Adults)
Est. Time in Museum: 30 - 45 minutes
Recommended for: History Buffs, Adults
Exhibits focus primarily on individual stories of veterans by showcasing stories and artifacts of their time in service rather than an overall history lesson of certain wars or battles. When I went in October 2018 they had a special Korean War exhibit recreating a typical foxhole and some actual war artifacts from the Chinese army. There was a section dedicated to women in the military in the back and a section discussing the military history of balboa park during World War 1. Although exhibits do change throughout the year.The rest of the museum focuses on stories of individual veterans of wars from World War 1 to the present. There are some unique and unusual artifacts that even those interested in military history have probably never seen or heard of before. Only recommended for those with a strong interest in military history otherwise the casual museum patron might not find it particularly interesting. But since the entrance fee is only $5, I would still recommend it for a visit
What an interesting and varied free little history center! I really enjoyed the temporary LGBT exhibit and I thought it was both disheartening and inspirational. The tiny section on Japanese society in San Diego was really cool too (so funny to think of Japanese sushi and tacos being served together at family parties).
There was some interesting facts on settlers in San Diego and some beautiful murals as well!
Was disappointed in the gift shop - really boring generic stuff for sale in comparison to all the random interesting things to see in the museum itself. I think it would’ve been so cool to recreate and sell some of those vintage LGBT tshirts designs on display for example
There was some interesting facts on settlers in San Diego and some beautiful murals as well!
Was disappointed in the gift shop - really boring generic stuff for sale in comparison to all the random interesting things to see in the museum itself. I think it would’ve been so cool to recreate and sell some of those vintage LGBT tshirts designs on display for example
Great place, was just passing by...
A great way to learn more about San Diego's rich cultural heritage and history
One room focuses on history on an architect, one room on San Diego history, one room on Jewish history, another on the San Diego Zoo and finally a small alcove on Black history. All in all, everything is well laid out. You can start on the left as you enter and walk through everything except the zoo and the alcove. They are easy to get to though as you continue.
The exhibits were great. They were informative and grabbed the attention of all ages. The staff was all friendly and helpful.