The San Diego Museum of Man was one the most disappointing museums I’ve visited in San Diego, California. They could have just named it as the San Diego Mayan Museum, since the display of huge Maya monuments, or stelae, were the only ones that worth seeing inside. And nothing more was fascinating. Not even the BEERology display.

I was expecting to see more from the San Diego Museum of Man as it has gotten a good rating from a number of travel sites. But like few rare cases I’ve encountered before, not all ratings you see online are true. This museum failed in so many ways — not engaging, exhibits were not adventurous enough, and too pricey for an entrance fee! They asked for $13 as general admission fee, but this does not include the Cannibals Exhibit nor the California Tower Tour. I had to pay $7 more for the Cannibals or $25 for all three – museum, cannibals, and tower. Speaking of Cannibals Exhibit, located at the opposite building, it was lackluster. There was nothing in it but photocopied photos and reprints.

Here is the layout of the museum.

The museum is housed in the historic California Building with its inviting tower. Without the building’s history or the landmark tower, I don’t think visitors will pay to see the museum exhibits.

Here is one of the Maya monuments.

As a final note, the museum should lower its admission fee to just $15 — this should include the museum, cannibals, and tower tour!

MUSEUM EXPERIENCE RATING: 4/10

Address.

1350 El Prado, Balboa Park
San Diego, California

Where to stay in San Diego, California.

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See also: My other travel adventures in the USA.

See also: List of National Parks.