I've been visiting San Diego museums all week and I have to say that this one was one of my favorites. They have a beautiful collection of hand crafted pieces that are full of fine details. What I appreciated most is how I enjoyed pretty much everything they had on display. A lot of museums I've been to were dull or only had a few cool things to look at. The curators here have great taste and I was fascinated by the variety of art this museum had offer. Downstairs had Japanese signs that are supposed to be a visual representation of the service offered (a tobacco shop sign was a giant pipe). The room next to that had some Indonesian shadow puppets on display and the amount of detail on each piece was mind-blowing. Upstairs had some nice saddles and jewelry pieces. The most stunning piece was this giant wall covered in super detailed tiles made of metal. This museum is enjoyably quiet and full of beautiful art. Definitely worth a visit.

I think the musuem had a reopening sometime last year or within the last 6 months after a long hiatus and remodel. I remember them closing long before the pandemic. Most of the collection of Asian artifacts were moved to the Art Museum. The musuem now focuses on ethnic wares and whimsical art from the past and near-present. Post-remodel, the Mingei now features a swanky restaurant center stage on the first floor, which is open to guests free of charge. There is also a beautiful reference library full of arts and culture books patrons can peruse as they like. The gift is still there, offering wordly goods for all budgets. The space feels modern and industrial and even the adjacent, more affordable cafe has been upgraded from before. The butterfly flower lemonade has a tangy syrup that's perfect for a hot day.

There’s limited gallery space, but overall, it was a lovely experience. There’s a diverse collection of folk art, mostly from Japan, but also some pieces from many other countries like Myanmar, India, Ethiopia, and Mexico. The terraces on the second level were an expected discovery. You get a unique view of the park. The art library is closed Sundays, otherwise, I would have liked to explore that too. I spent about 45 minutes there. The new cafe on the first level is a really great. The menu is pretty large for a small cafe. I didn’t order any beverages, but purchased the lavender shortbread cookie, brownie, and ham & cheese croissant. I can’t wait to enjoy these treats at home.

Mingei is a great museum and I have been a member for over 20 years. I enjoy the art here. Now I find that the recent renovation has spruced up the place with a fancy restaurant, large muse shop etc. But the area for art seems smaller than before. The restaurant is excellent and I love the international cuisine nights. The cocktails are scintillating. I was there for a DJ night recently advertised as "crafts cocktails and tunes ". It was an awful evening in a cramped space. And the tickets were expensive for 1 cocktail and popcorn and some sort of music with no place to sit.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

This is a fascinating museum. We have visited twice, and both times been amazed at exhibits. Paper art from Japan was pretty astounding, but in particular paper "lace" with amazing detail. The museum's restaurant was equally fabulous, with meals from many cultures. The board room features a long wood table and chairs that reflect the artistry of woodworking. This place is a visual treat and should not be missed if strolling Balboa Park. Wheelchair access was quite straightforward as well.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$11–15

I was lucky enough to take a tour with the current CEO. It's been totally remodeled and looks amazing. The bottom floor is the restaurant, gift shop and the education classroom hiding in the back. That whole which I find amazing. The second floor is the exhibit area. They were doing exhibit installation so there wasn't that much to look at while I was there, but there is also a library you can access that is really beautiful. Also if you purchase access to the exhibits, the balconies on that second floor are stunning.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Can I say this museum is my favorite museum so far in San Diego? I didn’t plan to visit here today but it was at museum month when I just walked by, I decided to have a look. I got a half price ticket because of the museum month. The exhibition is amazing! I really love how the curators curated all the folk craft arts from all over the world. I can see the arts are very different in their own cultural ways based on their history and location, but also kinda connected in someway based on the whole human beings’ cultural development. I love to see how folk arts influence and reflect our society.

I became a member of Mingei 2 years ago and it is one of the best investments I have made to support the San Diego art community! Join with a friend and it is a geat deal! The Summer Surf Series is every Thursday night from 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm now through August 21, 2014. The Surf Board exibit showing now is amazing! There are additional shows going on upstairs which makes it great for all! I also love the gift shop! It is a perfect place to pick up a special gift for a friend or yourself. Come visit Mingei International Museum and you will be blessed! Sue Glover

Mingei International Museum is a place of enlightenment where objects speak for themselves – in line, form and color – the universal language of art. The Museum provides the opportunity for an ever-increasing number of people of diverse ages and backgrounds to experience these enduring expressions of human creativity that know no boundary of time, place or culture. The Museum opens a window on the great world, revealing similarities and distinctions of individuals and cultures and inspiring people to express their own innate creativity.

When I visited the museum they had a great display of Navajo hand made rugs one rug was almost 200 years old, the museum was nice but one area was closed off due to a new display being prepared for viewing, if you go do yourself a favor and make a weekend of it visit the Museum of Man and the Natural History museum, don't forget to visit old town San Diego make sure you wear comfortable shoes as you will be on your feet and do a lot of walking oh by the way try to get there early if you can spring at these places is great

Small museum that has a few exhibits downstairs free to view, while upstairs requires paid admission. Free for military. I really liked the folklore figurines and hats made of paperbags. The show areas aren't very large and it took probably 45 minutes to get through it at a slow leisurely pace. I suggest checking on their website what exhibit is currently showing to determine if it's worth attending.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

The Mingei Museum at Balboa Park has a few exhibits that can be viewed for free on the ground floor, while the upper floor requires paid admission. Military personnel can visit for free. The museum has a nice collection of folklore figurines and hats made of paper bags. The exhibit areas are not very large, so it's possible to see everything at a leisurely pace. It's a good idea to check the museum's website to see what exhibits are currently on display to determine if it's worth visiting.
Visited on
Weekday

Amazing! Went this past Monday to see their exhibition on Piñatas. Was honestly one of the most engaging and captivating exhibitions I've seen in a long time. Just to show, I've uploaded some of my favorite displays I captured during my visit. Please note that the second floor where the piñatas are at requires an entry fee. It's worth every penny, I'll say.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
1 hr+
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$11–15

Bit over priced. Wasn't at all what I'd expected and slightly disappointed to be honest, when reading it was a museum of everyday objects I'd expected everyday objects such as packaging, chairs, clothes etc more modern design classics rather than ceremonial masks from India and ancient artifacts from Mexico, but my niece seemed to enjoy it
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$11–15

I am so happy this location is open again. The cafe next door is amazing, the gift shop has some great find (albeit a little pricey) and the meusem itself is absolutely beautiful. By far one of the most beautiful and aesthetically pleasing places you'll find. I love that it's both a private curated collection and comprised of many home made pieces with every day items and by crafty artisans. It makes it very accessible and inspiring.

The Mingei was a very interesting museum. By this I mean that the art exhibits that were on display were unique and captivating. There were very thorough cards next to the exhibits describing the art work. When I was there they were changing out one of the exhibits so we were unable to utilize the whole space.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$11–15

I was invited to a private event in the building after hours. OMG... where have I been? The space is beautiful, the art and displays are.robust colorful, and wonderful. I toured every event space falling in love with the theater and the terrace! Go, enjoy this hidden gem. And if you are seeking a location for a party or large event CALL SUE!!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
1 hr+
Reservation recommended
Yes

We allways enjoy visiting Balboa Park. We enjoyed a unique and wonderful lunch at the Mingei restaurant. I don't recall the names of everything but one was an appetizer combination sampler (basically all of the appetizers) and a glazed cilantro pork. Shared that between three of us. Everything tasted great! Good service and reasonable prices. Highly recommended!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min

Beautiful, modern, easily manageable art museum with engrossing exhibits. Came for the piñata exhibit, which was stellar, but enjoyed the design and vernacular art exhibits very much also. Interesting wearables and housewares in the museum shop, and the restaurant looked splendid, though we didn’t eat. Lovely historic garden outside, too. This is absolutely worth a visit.

One of the best museums in San Diego. Dynamic in its programs and with a great collection of Asian, Latin and American crafts as well as beads, doll houses and tribal arts of the world. With Modern and Contemporary Fine Art exhibits also, this is a rich experience an art lover would enjoy. When your done exploring the museum, you will find the gift shop amazing.

Artifact restaurant - for a wonderful date night dinner! We enjoyed the experience, the concept and the food... and there was plenty of good eats from the prix fixe menu. Our first time here and I can tell you it won't be our last!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$31+

My two sisters and I thoroughly enjoyed the wood/fabric exhibit and the organic architecture at the same time. They encouraged me to take my brother when he came to town, which I did. He, too, liked it a lot. They are all from cities with great museums (New York, Philadelphia, Chicago/Santa Fe) but look forward to returning to the Mingei.

The museum was closed but we decided to try the Artifact Café and it was amazing...we really enjoyed all the dishes we tried. They even made special kid-friendly food for our two boys and the service was excellent.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
Free

The newly renovated Mengei Museum is a great addition to the Balboa Park experience. The first floor is open to the public with the gift shop, cafe, and a display area. Most of the exhibit space is on the second floor. There is also a new outdoor patio area that overlooks the plaza. Look for the best bathrooms in Balboa Park.

My favorite museum in San Diego. The museum's collection includes hand crafted items from around the world. Most of museum space is used for rotating exhibits and so you'll never know what you're going to see. See American crafts such as quilts, furniture, and pottery. Don't miss the amazing Chihuly in the main stairway.

I was here two weeks. I didn't go upstairs to the actual museum but the bottom was very fascinating. The coffee shop was very relaxing for an early breakfast. There is plenty to see. I enjoyed glueing paper-mache to a donkey looking piñata. Huge peace and Love hands will be the best photo background. Hope to visit soon.

We entered the museum to see their new store and to have a snack & glass of wine. They were pretty much sold out on the items we wanted. Didn't have time to see the museum exhibits, maybe next time.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
30–60 min
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Weird and unique would be a good way of describing this place. Whole I do appreciate some contemporary art, some of this just makes me question what contemporary art means. While it does evouque some emotions, I'm not sure they're good emotions. If you are into bizarre or benign items, this may be the place for you.

We arrived on a free Tuesday so it was crowded. Unique art, piñatas and homemade embroidery. Not your dead white cis European male art here. Highlight is the Nakashima furniture and library.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

We went to an open air ballet. Very warm out. The new facilities are gorgeous.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
Free
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot, Free street parking

This is a lovely museum surrounded by a group of other shops and venues. The whole place is just fun to walk around and this museum always has different kinds of exhibits. Get on the mailing list and you will be drawn down to many shows over the year. Bring a camera and a picnic lunch for your viisit.

A beautiful Museum space with marvelous exhibits. However, be warned -- The museum is closing in September for an entire year. Oh dear! We now feel sorry that we had not visited sooner and seen some of the earlier special exhibitions. Presumably when it reopens it will be be better than ever.

Okay, the temporary exhibits for this rotation were very appealing to your visual sense and your humanity as a person. The student produced art was inspiring.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$11–15

San Diego California Most interesting , exciting , colorful museum.Had an amazing time looking at all the exhibits..Clothes , toys , tools age old and exhibits on what the items were used for ..Have pictures but hoping this article will show some of the exhibits.. BALBOA PARK.

Fantastic staff and menu! Truly fantastic food! Bartender was so kind and Kelly was a joy with her happy disposition. We enjoyed our visit so much!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Very unusual, colorful, and original art found here. Only negative is that don't go there expecting a large museum, it is relatively small.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
Free

Loved the washi art display. Their food was excellent. Also sat in on a lecture about the Chicano history and community. Will attend again.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
1 hr+
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$6–10

Great 1st visit to completely updated museum. My 6 yr old granddaughter loved it and read every label. The layout, the artwork, the mixture always all amazing. We also loved the new Cafe. Now that I have annual membership (a bargain), we will be back soon!

The Mingei lives up to its reputation as a contemporary museum. Each time I have visited the exhibits are fresh and relevant. There was a particularly poignant display of needlework pieces done by refugees. It was moving and very worthwhile to see. More

Friendly, helpful staffers! Engaging exhibit of embroidered quilting about refugees. Upcoming Washi exhibit seems interesting
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
$6–10

Love this museum. The upstairs gallery/exhibition is full of interesting items. My favorite was the pearl horse and mermaid feeding trough and, although not an exhibition item, the most fascinating was the stairway chandelier. It’s a work of art!

Always has thought provoking exhibits. We visit every time we're in San Diego. Their gift store is moving to a location within an art community organized by the city in an old military compound. It's packed with art, and artists Liberty Station.

This museum has intricate statues, cultural items, tapestries, and other art. There's also a library and a balcony. The ground floor is free and features items from different parts of the world. There's a cafe, gift shop, and restaurant

Just visited the bottom floor which was free. Really neat space with a very cool modern restaurant along with a gift shop, and a couple exhibits.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Now that it is opened it is a great way to spend a few hours and look at all the folk art. They even have a small lunch space that you can get some food to go. In the next few months they are going to open dining with service inside.

It's a very cool museum it has all the indigenous art from all around the world handmade Mass statues and that beautiful chandelier that you see in the picture cost $10 to get in if you have any kind of a military ID or discount.

Very nice spaces and always thought provoking shows with international themes. Upstairs is more in county things of interest. As I write this they are displaying Navajo blankets and a amazing selection of printed books.

Absolutely amazing. The exhibit that shows art/craft representing each state is stunning. Also is the exhibit that showcases walking sticks. Did not get time to see the other areas but will revisit. This one is a gem.

It's now mostly a gift shop and restaurant. They used to have more and more interesting exhibits
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Really different. Great curating and descriptions give excellent background information. Beautiful pieces when we were there. Great museum shop with so many beautiful items. I'm coming back to buy unique gifts.

Small museum, beautifully renovated just recently. Gift shop has cute items and the coffee shop is open to the public. Hope the cafe is able to open soon. Check out the two-story volume topped with art glass.

A rare find in Balboa Park. What this museum lacks in space it makes up in art exhibits
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$16–20

Was there for a Camarada concert and had a lovely glass of wine at the restaurant. Staff was running, maybe getting used to having a crowd. Just nice to take in such a beautiful space, feast for the eyes.

For the week of art gallery with my family, so on every 3rd Sunday of the month it is $5.00 for all family. This is a great place for family , date, I love it. Tuesday some of many museum are free also.

Handmade items, some made by self taught artists. Really enjoyed this collection.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$11–15

Small compared to some museums but lots of things to see and spark your imagination . My favorite is a Palace for Wednesday but the pinatas of figures from Boch garden of earthly delights very well done

Such a beautiful space! The library is incredible. So many fun exhibits.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$11–15

Artifact prix fix monthly menu is amazing... Provence themed in July ❣️
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$31+

The new Mingei museum is fantastic. Nice restaurant and cafe on the ground floor. Performance theatre downstairs. Good exhibit upstairs and a nice library. Great paver to visit ok Balboa park

Only perused the first floor, very clean aesthetic and fairly interesting 2-3 exhibits but it was paid entrance to the rest of the exhibits
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait

I have no interest in modern art. This place has great ceramic, wood, metal, fabric,paper, etc. creations. While in a modern theme there are traditional crafts of very talented artists.

Fascinating exhibits filled with unique and arresting folk art!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$11–15

A stand out in a park of great museums. Thr permanent collection is great, and the special exhibits always provide thoughtful and engaging insight into the artist or culture featured.

Cool place to bring the family. Saturday was really fun and we got to see a Rembrandt. This painting is not the Rembrandt. This painting is a scene where Jesus was healing the blind.

Kind of disappointing the collection is very second tier if not worse, but I guess it's worth one visit. There is a restaurant there called Artifact that I'll be trying out sometime.

We have been patiently waiting for the Mingei to finally reopen after the extensive remodel- and the wait was worth it. It is beyond words. Go now while it is still free admission!

Creative, non-traditional exhibits. Great gift shop & restaurant. Great visit. I will go back.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Have only been here once but found it to be extremely well laid out and great displays. Fabrics were incredible. Highly recommend this museum. Expect to spend at least 2 hours.

It was a nice setting. Relaxing place and a great vibe.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$6–10

The museum is great very informative we enjoyed it
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$1–5

Very interesting and eat at the restaurant too!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$21–30

Great museum. Not your typical art, but well worth the visit. Unfortunately it will be closed through the summer of 2019 for renovations. I cannot wait till it reopens.

Super well done renovation. Love the free downstairs area. It was plenty busy last Saturday. There is finally another food option in Balboa Park, and it's the Mingei!

There are some really cute sculptures
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$11–15

Beautiful museum that shows everyday objects and handicrafts through time
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Free entry for locals on Tuesdays! Worth it.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Beautiful piñata exhibit! This is a must-visit museum. The Craft Cafe has delicious food and the gift shop is also a mind-blowing, perspective opening experience.

Didn't get to see any of the art, but the food at the restaurant is outstanding! Great staff and super delicious North African cuisine and such a stylish venue!

A great museum for exhibiting folk art, crafts and design. There are lots of museum personnel staffing each section to speak to you about the items on display.

I always enjoy going into this gallery as it is Ever Changing unlike many places in Balboa Park. Something for everyone if you love art from around the world.

Top notch experience. Be sure to go outside and around to the back. There you will see the work of Niki de Saint Phalle! “The Poet and His Muse” is gorgeous.

The Mingei adds gravitas to folk art and common items. It reminds me that we're surrounded by art if we only choose to look. One of my favorite galleries.

Very relaxing atmosphere in the heart of Balboa park. Creative cuisine with fun flavors and textures. Good selection of drinks as well. Highly recommend

Lots of interesting items but a lot of them were pretty boring or commonplace. Lacks cohesiveness. But i do like the chandelier and the Tibetan painting

Private event there, Catering and Service was Five Star level
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Price for adult entry
Free

Very interesting exhibition. Definitely recommend to visit. First floor has a restaurant and gift shop. Second floor also hosts art library.

Very nice and interesting displays
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Great folk art - not be missed - be sure to go out on the upper decks and view the promenade of the park while you are here

Always something interesting to see!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

AMAZING!! I JUST LOVE ART ESPECIALLY FOLK, CLASSICAL, AND CULTURAL! WHAT GREAT EXPERIENCE. I was truly amazed!!!

A small museum that is currently hosting an exhibit of colorful and vibrant folk art by Ted Cohen. Worth a look.

Beautiful place and energy. Met Helena & Juan at the reception and they were so helpful and friendly

Had drinks. Great mixologist. Nice to be able to drink and look at items.
Visited on
Weekend

Folk art and crafts very tasteful and inviting
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait

The art library is an amazing place to spend a couple of hours. Great selection of niche books

This is a pretty cool to take a break from Balboa park. Drinks and appetizers were very good.

Beautiful venue!! Gorgeous space in Balboa Park with a stunning collection and event spaces.

Very interesting place. Also I either increased or decreased the value of one art piece XD

I paid 15€ for louvre ticket and here is nothing for 15$:) sorry but it doesn’t worth it.

Beautiful art work and an amazing event space. This glass sculpture was my favorite.