Guided Docent Led Tours at the Maritime Museum of San Diego is your opportunity to learn of the ships in-depth stories from our trained knowledgeable historians, and enjoy the waterfront sights of San Diego Bay while meeting other people with like interests in maritime heritage and history. The docent and volunteer community share a wealth of knowledge, and a passion and pride with visitors for these extra special tours. Guided Docent-led Tour tickets include General Admission. So, after your tour you are welcome to explore more of the fleet and exhibits if you have time. Once at the museum, you can add-on a 45 min Historic Bay Cruise for only $10.00 more. Check with the Ticket Booth staff on availability. Leaving the museum for lunch, and returning is allowed, with lot’s of lunch and nibble options in close walking distance.

Blue Gold: The Art and Science of Indigo presents indigo through stunning objects of creative expression and the astonishing study of a chemical reaction.

Blue Gold is among more than 70 exhibitions and programs presented as part of Getty’s 2024 PST ART initiative, Art & Science Collide. Discover the roles of botany, chemistry, ecology, and economics in indigo cultivation and dive into a deeper appreciation for blue hues. Through workshops and talks led by local artists, including a Master Craftsman Lecture with Porfirio Gutiérrez and Dyeing Classes with Sarah Winston, be immersed in the world of indigo. There is magic in the transformation from plant to pigment.

Blue Gold is on view until March 2025.

The Maritime Museum of San Diego invites you to join us for Tall Ship adventure sailing! This is a four-hour adventure history sail aboard the schooner Californian.
The Californian is a replica of a gold rush era revenue cutter and the Official Tall Ship of the State of California.

Arrive early to take in your general admission visit to the entire fleet and exhibits, then set sail! 

Join the crew in sailing a traditionally rigged tall ship! Passengers will be invited to haul a line, man the helm and 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.

Since 1935, the House of China has brought the beauty of Chinese culture to San Diego located at the International Cottages Balboa Park. Our annual Chinese New Year Fair is a time-honored tradition that brings together families and communities to celebrate with performances, food, and cultural displays.