The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego in La Jolla occupies a bluff on Prospect Street above the Pacific, and its galleries host contemporary art in changing exhibitions drawn from its collection and from loans. The setting is part of the appeal, with ocean views from the cafe and a short walk to the village's shops and the cove. The museum is open Thursday to Sunday and closed Monday to Wednesday, and it offers free admission days, including the second Sunday and third Thursday of each month. For visitors who like current art, it is a rewarding stop on a day around La Jolla.
The La Jolla building is built around the original house designed by the architect Irving Gill for Ellen Browning Scripps in 1916, extended and updated over the years. Exhibitions change regularly, so a return visit often feels new, and the museum offers tours and programs. The galleries are manageable in size, and the ocean view from the terrace and the dining room gives you a break from the art.
Opening hours are Thursday to Saturday from 11 am to 7 pm and Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm, with the museum closed Monday to Wednesday and on holidays including Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's Day, Memorial Day, the Fourth of July and Labor Day. General admission is charged with reduced rates for residents, students, educators and seniors, and free entry for visitors 25 and under, members, military, SNAP/EBT cardholders and others, plus free days on the second Sunday and third Thursday of the month. Free lockers, a calm room and wheelchairs on request are available.
Plan to pair the visit with La Jolla village, the cove and the sea lions, which are within walking distance. Parking in La Jolla is tight, so arrive early or use a garage a short walk away. Contemporary art is not to every taste, but the museum is welcoming to newcomers and the staff are happy to explain exhibits. Allow about ninety minutes, with extra time for the cafe if the weather is clear and the Pacific is putting on a show.
What to expect
The experience
Self-guided galleries of contemporary art with tours and programs, plus an ocean-view dining room and shop.
Best time
Thursday to Saturday the museum stays open until 7 pm, and Thursday and Friday afternoons are usually quieter than weekends. Free days draw bigger crowds.
How long
About ninety minutes.
Tips
Note the Thursday-to-Sunday schedule, check free-day dates, use the lockers and park early in La Jolla. Pair with the cove and village.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Contemporary art fans and visitors spending a day in La Jolla.
- Families
- Works for older children and teens interested in art; the free admission for visitors 25 and under helps.
- Couples
- A stylish outing with ocean views and a stroll through the village.
- Pair with
- La Jolla Cove and Birch Aquarium are close by.
- Time needed
- About ninety minutes.
Good questions
Which days is it open?+
Thursday to Saturday from 11 am to 7 pm and Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm; it is closed Monday to Wednesday.
Is there a free day?+
Yes, admission is free on the second Sunday and third Thursday of each month, and for visitors 25 and under.
Where is it?+
At 700 Prospect Street in La Jolla, on a bluff above the Pacific.
Is there somewhere to eat?+
Yes, an ocean-view dining room called The Kitchen and a museum shop.
Is it accessible?+
Wheelchairs are available on request and free lockers and a calm room are provided.
