Nat at Night goes weekly starting May 15.
On Fridays, the San Diego Natural History Museum is open until 11 PM just for you. Enjoy access to all open exhibitions* and our rooftop deck for good views and great vibes. The rooftop is open to all visitors and serves beer, wine, non-alcoholic drinks, and food from Wolf in the Woods—you can get a look at the menu below.
With bars on several floors, sip a signature cocktail as you leisurely explore the Museum. Or grab some artisan tacos and amazing coffee drinks from The Craft Taco in our Atrium. On select dates, channel your inner artist with Sketchparty, get competitive during trivia, or unwind while listening to the rooftop DJ.
Admission is half-price after 5 PM, and parking is free after 6 PM. You can buy your tickets online in advance or buy them at the door the night of. As always, members of The Nat and Explorer pass holders enjoy free general admission.
Upcoming dates and featured activities
*Level 4 is under construction, though it will fully reopen in July with updated exhibitions: Expedition Baja and Hidden Gems.
The entire Museum* is yours to explore! Take a selfie with a megalodon shark, see scientists at work in our Paleo Center, admire glittering gems, get a close up look at spiders and snakes, and so much more. Best of all, get a look at our brand-new exhibition, Washed Ashore: Art to Save the Sea and grab a drink in the dive bar while chatting with a scientist.
*Note: Level 4 is temporarily off view while we finish construction.
While you're on the rooftop, enjoy small bites from award-winning restaurant Wolf in the Woods! Based in Mission Hills, Wolf in the Woods cultivates warmth, creativity, and an appreciation for our region. Check out their special Nat at Night menu here (offerings subject to change based on seasonal availability).
Located inside the Atrium, The Craft Taco is a vibrant restaurant offering a delectable fusion of flavors and artisanal creations. They offer made-to-order tacos featuring signature blue corn tortillas, delectable burritos and bowls, and a variety of drinks, coffee, and pastries. View the menu here.
With weekly Nat at Night, themed brunches, weekend family programming, and so much more, membership just makes sense. Not to mention, you’re directly supporting nature conservation in our region.
Is Nat at Night family-friendly? Yes, the whole family is welcome to come to Nat at Night! Grab dinner from the Atrium or rooftop and explore the exhibitions and activities until bedtime.
Is parking available? Parking is available throughout Balboa Park and is free after 6 PM. We suggest taking the bus or ride-share—you'll arrive steps away from our front doors (plus, avoid parking hassles and minimize your carbon footprint). Learn more about parking and directions here.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance? Tickets for museum entry can be purchased in advance or at the door. Museum members and Explorer pass holders get complimentary admission during Nat at Night.
Dates and hours are subject to change, so check this page for the latest information. Capacity for the rooftop is limited.