One of the hottest attractions in Balboa Park, home to artworks that span history, the city's main art depository is an unmissable destination for culture vultures.
The oldest and biggest of the museums in Balboa Park, the San Diego Museum of Art is a popular attraction, attracting all kinds of visitors who come to admire the works of art, some of which are over 7000 years old.
Housed in a beautiful, ornate building influenced by Spanish Colonial architecture, the museum is home to an impressive collection. Here you can discover fine art from across the world, part of an extraordinary and eclectic collection that has been getting bigger and better since the museum first opened back in 1926.
In keeping with its setting, the museum boasts some excellent collections of Spanish art, including classic works by the likes of Murillo, Ribero and El Greco. The museum’s international flavour includes paintings by Italian artists as well as many different pieces from Asia. Among the photographers lining the walls are great names like Margaret Bourke-White and Henri Cartier-Bresson.
For information about what’s on during your visit, head to the Balbao Park Visitor Center or the museum’s information desk. Here you can find out about temporary exhibitions, as well as lectures, workshops and educational events that are held at the museum. Every April the museum hosts “Art Alive”, an exhibit of floral displays based on works inside the gallery.
It’s easy to spend a whole day here in the museum, but most visitors find two or three hours offers ample time. There are strict rules on photography and larger bags are not permitted inside the gallery. The museum is open every day of the week except for Wednesdays.
