Culture: San Diego Museum Month Guide

While many wish to visit the stimulating museums and historical centers located in our city, admission costs may keep them from indulging as often as they desire.

If you’ve been craving a bit more culture in your life, mark your calendar for February, also known as the 23rd Annual Museum Month in San Diego. This popular event, presented by Macy’s, makes museum-hopping easy and affordable for locals and visitors. Just pick up a Museum Month pass at any Macy's store in San Diego starting February 1st and enjoy half-off admission fees at 40 participating institutions all month long.

Now the only question is, where to go first?

Discover our can’t-miss picks for 2012 Museum Month

Museum of Photographic Arts: During Museum Month, MOPA will feature two exhibitions for viewing. Unusual Suspects: Paintings and Photographs by Holly Roberts combines the mediums of photography and collage in an unexpected and playful manner (pictured). Eyes of a Nation: A Century of American Photography will take you through the rich history of American photographers, including works from 1870 to 1970. Get details here.

Birch Aquarium at Scripps: The Birch Aquarium showcases more than 60 habitats of fishes and invertebrates and has nearly five dozen interactive elements, turning it into a public exploration center. Exhibits range from There’s Something About Seahorses, to Feeling the Heat: Climate Challenge, Shark Reef & Hall of Fishes, Living Tide Pools and Whales: Voices in the Sea. Get details here.

Museum of Contemporary Art, La Jolla: The work of John Baldessari, a San Diego artist recognized all over the world, will be available for viewing starting February 5th. Baldessari’s work is utterly unique and crosses through media such as etching, embossing and silkscreen to create witty visuals. Incredible light-based installations by Spencer Fitch will also be on display throughout the month. Get details here.

San Diego Botanic Garden: The Botanic Garden, located in Encinitas, boasts over 37 acres and four miles of trails. In addition, it is home to the largest interactive Children’s Garden on the west coast. There are tons of gorgeous plants that bloom in February and you can view such flowers as Heartleaf Geraniums, Angel Trumpets, Wallflowers, Valentine Emu Bush and Banksia during your visit. Get details here.

San Diego Automotive Museum: Starting February 3rd, you will be able to view the Woodies exhibit at the San Diego Automotive Museum, including California originals that helped create the Southern California image. In addition, the Volkswagen exhibit will be available for viewing through January 29th. Permanent collections include treats such as Indian Motorcycles, Harley Davidson Collection, Show Stoppers, Steve McQueen and Louis Mattar’s Fabulous Car.

To view a full list of 2012 Museum Month exhibitions, visit sandiegomuseumcouncil.org

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