In 1911, San Diego began planning the 1915 Panama-California Exposition, creating a unique educational concept to distinguish itself from the San Francisco exposition planned for the same year. During that period scientists from the School of American Archaeology (now the School of American Research) and Smithsonian Institution founded what has come to be known as the San Diego Museum of Man.

Education is one of the primary functions for the cultural and physical anthropology museum.

It has served as a center for education and recreation for generations of San Diego families.

Its dome and tower has become a hallmark for San Diego history, while the many programs of the museum have provided a dynamic learning environment for both children and adults.

The iconic institution in San Diego is known for its historic building, which sits in the center of Balboa Park, making it a prime choice for many special events and functions throughout the year.

In recent years, recognizing that cultural preservation is intimately linked to the environment, the museum’s mission was expanded to include human ecology.

As San Diego prepares for the Centennial of the Panama-California Exposition, the museum’s original philosophy, whereby collections form the basis for relevant exhibits, education, and research, is being reaffirmed.