Institute of Contemporary Art San Diego / Central

Genetically Modified Gods at the Ica San Diego Central Museum

The museum is dedicated to offering visitors the most interesting and thought provoking exhibits possible and 2024 line up will not disappoint!

Pinars Pendulum at the Ica San Diego Central Museum

Pinar Yoldas: Synaptic Sculpture

A fusion of neuroscience, architecture, and AI, Dr. Pinar Yoldas' exhibit will ask guests what future could technology create if it allows desire and emotion to be combined within its ever-changing and expanding ability?

This immersive experience will be Yoldas’s first solo museum exhibition in the United States. She’ll produce new projects for the ICA, including a photo bioreactor system that will transform algae into a biodegradable plastic alternative.

“C You Saturday! - Pinar Yoldas” will be on Saturday, February 4th from 4 to 8 PM. RSVP to attend the event for free.

“Dr. Pinar Yoldas: Synaptic Sculpture” will run from February 24th to June 23rd.

Follow the ICA San Diego/Central podcast on Spotify to learn more about the exhibit in a conversation with Dr. Yoldas.

2024 Artists in Residence

This January, ICA San Diego launched a residency program to support local artists with a stipend, monthly materials budget, and professional development opportunities.

The residents will then present their work in a joint exhibit on healing that will take place in ICA San Diego North in their 2025-2026.

Ethan Chan, in Residence, January - June

Chan’s focus on sculpture, performance and installation showcases his love for kitsch and his identity as a self-professed Asian American mutt.

Chan will produce work that highlights the post-pandemic experience of people of color and the isolation and segregation they face in the United States.

David Peña, in Residence, July - December

Peña’s work spotlights his Mexican-American roots with a focus on generational healing.

Peña will explore themes that touch on grief, loss, community, and what we inherit from our ancestral past.

Did you Know

The ICA San Diego was initially founded in 1941 as the San Diego Business Men's Art Club. In 1950 the name was changed to the San Diego Art Institute, and three years later women were allowed membership into the organization. Just recently in 2023 the name was changed again as it merged with the Lux Art Institute in Encinitas. It is now Institute of Contemporary Art San Diego or ICA San Diego.

Tips and suggestions about how to make the most of your trip are what we do at Go Visit San Diego. Read on for things you’ll want to know before you arrive.

Entrance to the at the Ica San Diego Central Museum

Get Discounted Admission to Balboa Park's Top Attractions

While the museum does not charge admission, the current suggested donation is $10 for general tickets, $5 for student/senior/military, and free for children 12 and under. With that though, many of the best nearby attractions do have a fee to enter but we can help you save on those costs.

A Go City San Diego Pass lets you buy discounted tickets ahead of time to The Institute of Contemporary Art, San Diego. The pass also grants you access to over 50 attractions and activities in the San Diego area and Balboa Park.

Visit family-friendly museums like The New Children’s Museum or Living Coast Discovery Center. Then end the night on a relaxing Harbor Cruise Tour or a Dinner Cruise that combines seasonal dishes with iconic locations.

Purchase a Go City San Diego Pass at an additional discounted rate when you use our exclusive discount code, GVSD5OFF.

Where to Stay Near The Institute of Contemporary Art, San Diego / Central

There are so many amazing hotels to stay in while in the Balboa Park / San Diego area, that I had a hard time recommending only my absolute favorites!

For me personally, the four below beat out the competition when it comes to location, amenities, family-friendliness, and, of course, the view.

The Westgate Hotel

Indulge in The Westgate Hotel’s lush grandeur and luxury. It’s easy walking distance to ICA Central, The San Diego Opera, and the historic Gaslamp Quarter. The hotel is perfect for couples.

The Lafayette Hotel

This landmark boutique hotel is a family friendly, local favorite! Hang out in The LaFayette Hotel’s iconic pool and channel your inner Tarzan.

I say, come for the history and stay for the newly remodeled resort.

Moxy San Diego Downtown

In the very heart of Downtown San Diego, the Moxy San Diego Downtown is all about location, location, location!

The Moxy provides easy access to popular attractions, restaurants, and the beautiful PETCO Park.

This hotel is also really great for couples who want to be in the center of the action.

Pendry San Diego

The Pendry’s historic Gaslamp Quarter location brings you directly to the front door of many of San Diego’s most popular locations.

Minutes away from the Convention Center, the family friendly boutique hotel also features seasonal menus and activities. The Pendry is also quite family friendly.

Parking and Getting to the Museum

Free parking is available in the Balboa Park parking lots.

Please note, accessibility parking is available in the Alcazar Parking Lot behind The House of Charm.

Public transportation is available via the Number 7 Bus towards 69th & University. ICA Central is about a 6-minute walk from the Park Bl & Village Pl. bus stop.

Photobiorecator Biodegradable Device at the Ica San Diego Central Museum

Be Opened Minded to the Unique World of Contemporary Art

Plan your visit to ICA Central with one thing in mind: the ability to be inspired, challenged, excited, and surprised at every corner.

Book your tickets ahead of time with a Go City San Diego pass and don’t forget to tag us in your ICA photos. Enjoy your visit and don’t forget…

Question Everything!