About Us
Mission Statement
The Mission of the San Diego Automotive Museum™ is to tell the story of the social and technological past, present, and future of motorized vehicles throughout its collections, exhibitions, and educational programs.
Diversity and Inclusion: Automobiles are for Everyone
At the San Diego Automotive Museum™, we strive to be as diverse and inclusive as the vehicles we display. Be yourself. Every race, gender, age, religion, identity, and experience is valued and celebrated here. Everyone is welcomed, accepted, and respected.
Our Story
The original idea of creating an automotive museum in Balboa Park came from Briggs Cunningham, a renowned automobile collector and racer. The idea circulated for many years until an inspired group of local automotive enthusiasts propelled the idea forward. In 1979, the San Diego City Council first considered the issue and in 1980 they gave unanimous approval to the museum and granted a long-term lease for one of the historic buildings in the jewel of San Diego: Balboa Park.
After spending approximately $1 million renovating and upgrading the building, the San Diego Automotive Museum opened in December of 1988 as San Diego's Premier Transportation Museum™. Since then, millions of local auto enthusiasts and tourists from all over the world have visited our world-class collection. Today the museum stands as a living tribute to the automobile and what it has meant to our culture.
The San Diego Automotive Museum is a non-profit corporation under section 501(c)(3).
Read our Grand Opening Newsletter from Winter/Spring of 1988! (Thanks to David Rios for locating it.)
Attention Media (news, bloggers, streamers): Please contact us in advance to schedule an appointment. Let us know who you are with and where we might view an example of your work. No walk-ins.
