San Diego Museum Month kicks off Feb. 1 through Feb. 28, with half-off admissions to more than 70 museums, gardens, aquariums, historic sites, nature and wildlife centers, state parks, and more. Museum Month also features cultural sites in Tijuana, and this year the world premiere of the “Da Vinci’s First Flight” exhibition at the San Diego Air & Space Museum. This year’s event is presented by new Title Sponsor San Diego Foundation as part of its Fifty & Forward Campaign to strengthen San Diego nonprofits for the next 50 years.
Now in its 36th year, it is the San Diego County region’s largest month-long celebration of arts, culture, history, science, nature and more. Last year, more than 110,000 participated in Museum Month.
“Museum Month is the perfect time to visit your favorite museums while also exploring new museums that you’ve always wanted to see,” said Bob Lehman, executive director of the San Diego Museum Council in a press release. “We are grateful for San Diego Foundation’s support in bringing these enriching experiences to more San Diegans, especially those who might not otherwise have the opportunity or means to visit our museums. We believe museums are not just life-enriching; they can be life-changing.”
San Diego Foundation President and CEO Mark Stuart said the Foundation is proud to sponsor local events as the Foundation celebrates its 50th anniversary.
“These gatherings allow us to connect directly with our neighbors and support efforts that align with our vision of just, equitable and resilient communities,” he said.
San Diego Museum Month was created in 1989 to promote the region’s diverse range of world-class cultural offerings during a traditionally slow period for most local museums. Last year, more than 110,000 people participated in the program across the region, enjoying half-off admission at local museums.
Museum Month 2025 is also supported by First 5 San Diego, with additional funding provided by the California Arts Council, City of San Diego Commission for Arts and Culture, and the County of San Diego.
“First 5 San Diego has championed early childhood development for over 25 years, and we’re thrilled to partner with the Museum Council to support hands-on learning experiences that foster children’s well-being,” stated Alethea Arguilez, executive director of First 5 San Diego. “Museum Month offers families a unique opportunity to explore art, science, music, history, and more – creating fun, meaningful moments that strengthen bonds and support healthy development. It’s the perfect chance to learn, grow, and make lasting memories together.”
The program has grown over the years to include a broader range of San Diego institutions beyond traditional museums, including aquariums, nature and wildlife centers, gardens, historic sites, state parks, and more. In 2020, 40 museums participated in Museum Month. In 2025, there will be more than 70 participating locations. For a full list, visit https:// sandiegomuseumcouncil.org/ specials/museum-month/.
To participate pick up a printed Museum Month pass for free at local libraries throughout San Diego County. Each Museum Month pass can be used for up to four half-priced admissions at any of the participating museums. (Additional fees may apply for special exhibitions and events at some museums.) Guests can use their Museum Month pass multiple times to visit as many museums as they would like from Feb. 1-28, 2025. Museum Month is not valid in conjunction with any other discounts or with the Balboa Park Explorer pass. Museum Month passes are now available at over 80 public libraries located throughout San Diego County, including branches managed by the City and County of San Diego and the Cities of Carlsbad, Chula Vista, Coronado, Escondido, National City and Oceanside. Passes will also be available at the Oceanside Welcome Center.
East County: Barona Cultural Center and Museum California Wolf Center Heritage of the Americas Museum Lemon Grove Parsonage Museum Pacific Southwest Railway Museum The Water Conservation Garden
The Pacific Southwest Railway Musem has two locations, one in La Mesa and the other in Campo.