The Californian is a replica of a gold rush era revenue cutter and the Official Tall Ship of the State of California.

Join the crew in sailing a traditionally rigged tall ship. Passengers will be invited to haul a line, man the helm and end their day with a cannon salute. Watch the crew as they scamper up and down the rigging to set and furl the sails. Listen as the Californian’s crew relates the history of sailing and exploration in San Diego, tales of whaling and sea otter trade, local sea battles, the art of ship’s gunnery, life at sea and more.

See the Military Working Dog exhibit showcasing the history, training, equipment and missions of Marine Corps military working dogs.

The Marine Corps launched its military dog program during WWII. Marine Corps dogs have participated in every deployment and war since that time. Military working dogs conduct searches of vehicles, open areas, and buildings for the detection of explosives or illegal drugs as well as for lost or wanted persons.

In addition to the exhibit on dogs, visitors can see 31 historical aircraft up close as well as artifacts from the earliest days of aviation to the present. 

Admission and parking are free. 

Maritime Museum of San Diego, with an international reputation for excellence in restoring, maintaining, and operating historic vessels, announces new day sail adventure dates aboard San Salvador, a replica of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo’s ship that arrived at the port we now call San Diego on September 28, 1542. These 4-hour Sailing Adventures are for people who love history, and sailing. Very few people have sailed aboard galleons of the sixteenth century. For locals and visitors alike, we invite you to come aboard the magnificent galleon, San Salvador. No sailing experience required.

Explore one of the country’s best urban cultural parks. Balboa Park has a bit of everything, including grand architecture, diverse museums, cultural institutions, and captivating gardens. You will visit spots that even locals don’t know about. OPTIONAL ADD ON - add an adult One-Day Explorer Pass to any tour departure. Visit 4 of 16 participating museums for an additional $40.

Tour Highlights

Discover the inspiring, quirky, and fascinating history of one of the nation’s largest urban cultural parks
Uncover historical and architectural treasures hiding in plain sight
Explore a botanical garden’s vibrant collection of more than 2,100 plants
Learn about the early 20th century expositions that shaped Balboa Park
Find the best spots to photograph Balboa Park’s beautiful Spanish colonial revival architecture