POINT LOMA. Named for famed Portuguese explorer Juan Rodriquez Cabrillo, who in 1542 landed in San Diego Bay, this complex includes a museum that accurately depicts Cabrillo's exploits and those of other early explorers. Also on-site is Point Loma Lighthouse, towering 433 feet above the ocean. Arguably the best location in San Diego for spectacular views of the Bay and of the city's skyline.

HILLCREST / BALBOA PARK. Mingei is a Japanese word meaning "arts of all people." This museum presents exhibits of folk art from around the world, including Indonesia and New Guinea (multicolored masks, dolls, fertility symbols and shadow puppets) and Japan (decorative bottles, bowls and jars). Children will delight in the displays of international toys and antique carousels. Don't forget to visit the Collectors' Gallery/Museum Store for a wide selection of modern and antique arts and crafts. Located at the corner of El Prado and the Plaza de Panama, southwest of the fountain.

LA JOLLA. This beautiful museum began in what was once the 1916 Mission-style home of Ellen Browning Scripps, noted San Diego philanthropist. (The Institute of Oceanography and the breathtaking oceanside park are named for Mrs. Scripps.) Expansion to the original building was completed in the mid-1990s. Houses an impressive collection of post-1950s contemporary art from famed California artists as well as works by Warhol, Cornell and Stella. Equally impressive are the building's architecture and unparalleled views of the Pacific. The Museum Cafe serves gourmet sandwiches, soups and salads as well as beer and wine. A must see for art lovers!

DOWNTOWN. This is the satellite branch of the Museum of Contemporary Art located in La Jolla. In addition to its sculpture plaza, you'll find four galleries within, showcasing a variety of works in different mediums by local, national and international artists.#13;#10;#13;#10;

HILLCREST / BALBOA PARK. Located in the historic California Quadrangle at Balboa Park, this museum focuses primarily on the cultures of the ancient Americas. Permanent exhibit topics include the Maya, the Kumeyaay Indians, and human evolution. Changing special exhibits have featured subjects such as Haitian Voodoo, American Indian rock art, and the art of Abenaki, Hawaiian and Maori cultures. A Children's Discovery Center provides interactive exhibits about ancient Egypt, archaeology and anthropology.