The Big Exchange is Back: 18 Days of Free Museum Hopping

Museum lovers, your favorite membership perk is back! The Big Exchange returns to San Diego County, giving museum members free reciprocal admission to more than 50 participating museums, gardens, aquariums, and historic sites across the region.

If you’ve got a membership to any of the participating spots—think Fleet Science Center, San Diego Museum of Art, Birch Aquarium, or the San Diego Botanic Garden—you can flash your card at dozens of other local institutions and get in completely free.

What to Know

Hosted by the San Diego Museum Council and presented by San Diego Foundation, The Big Exchange is all about celebrating local culture, encouraging new discoveries, and rewarding those of us who support the arts year-round.

From tucked-away nature centers to big-name museums, this is your chance to explore a new side of San Diego without spending an extra dime.

Pro tip: This year’s event wraps up on International Museum Day, so if you’ve ever wanted to museum-hop like a local insider, this is your window.

Not a member yet? Now’s the perfect time to join your favorite local museum—you’ll instantly unlock free access to 50+ more.

See you there!

Take advantage of this limited-time opportunity to explore San Diego’s vibrant cultural scene for free. With over 50 destinations to choose from, your museum membership just got a serious upgrade. Mark your calendar, grab your card, and start exploring!

📆 May 1–18, 2025
📍 50+ Museums Across San Diego County
🎟️ Free with any participating museum membership
ℹ️ More info here

See you there, San Diego!