Every Friday night between May 24–August 30, we'll be open until 10 PM so you can explore the Museum after hours. Enjoy access to all exhibitions, programming and activities—like getting crafty with our friends from Sketchparty—on select dates, 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. Sip a signature cocktail as you leisurely explore the Museum—here's a map to guide your adventure.
During summer, trivia is hosted in the Atrium every Friday night at 7 PM! Call up your teammates, come up with a punny team name, grab a taco, and test your knowledge on topics about snakes, creepy crawlies, San Diego, dinosaurs, pop culture, and more.
Admission is half-price after 5 PM. You can buy your tickets in advance online or buy them at the door the night of. As always, members of The Nat and Explorer pass holders enjoy free general admission.
Getting here: 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.
Not yet a member? Planning to frequent our rooftop oasis? Or do you simply want to support conservation and nature in our region? Join us today.
Your purchases support our work to preserve this amazing place we call home.
We’re thrilled to host the 2024 restaurant of the year, Wolf in the Woods on our rooftop! Based in Mission Hills, Wolf in the Woods cultivates warmth, creativity, and an appreciation for our region. Just visit our rooftop for a little taste. Here's a sample menu, though please note offerings change weekly based on seasonal availability.
Have a taste for tacos? The Craft Taco is a vibrant taco restaurant offering a delectable fusion of flavors and artisanal creations. Their headquarters is in Sorrento Valley, but enjoy their pop-up location in the Atrium.
Note: A small selection of dinner options are also available in the Flying Squirrel Cafe on Level 1, adjacent to the Atrium.
The entire Museum is yours to explore! Take a selfie with a megalodon shark, see an ant colony in action, admire glittering gems, check out animal skulls of all sizes, and so much more. Plus, get a look at what we’ve been up to for 150 years in our newest show, Action from the Archives: The Nat at 150.
Starting May 31, we will be showing films in our giant screen theater during Nat at Night! Kick back and adventure through science as we reimagine the legendary dinosaur in our newest film—T. REX—or journey through the waters of Mexico’s Sea of Cortés and the Baja California desert. T. REX showings are at 5, 6:45, 7:30 and 8:15 PM. Ocean Oasis will show at 5:45 PM. Learn more.
* NOTE: Dates and hours are subject to change; always check this page for up-to-the-minute information. Capacity for the rooftop is limited.