The Backyard at the San Diego Natural History Museum

We were so excited to be invited to a special preview event of the newest attraction at the San Diego Natural History Museum called “The Backyard.”  The Backyard is an interactive play space exhibit inside the museum’s lower level intended for children aged 0-5.  If you had been to the Nat in recent years, your kiddos may have played in the tot area on the lower level which had a tee-pee and dinosaur toys.  The Backyard is an upgraded iteration of that concept.  The large space looks like a fun and funky neighborhood backyard with skylights, a big oak tree and plenty of cool toys and dinosaurs to play with.  The space includes sensory objects, colors, lights and sounds as well as a baby safe tot area where crawlers and new walkers can toddle around safely (soft space garden bed).

Your kids will LOVE exploring all of the neat features of this space and you can let your older kiddos explore the rest of the museum or check out one of the feature films at the Subaru 3D Experience Theater.  The Nat plans to expand the Flying Squirrel Café in the coming months but for now you can still grab a snack, a drink or a delicious cup of coffee to enjoy while the kiddos play.  The museum also offers free WiFi and a charging station.  Check out the slideshow of all of our fun below:

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One of the things that really spoke to me about this exhibit is that is promotes exploration and learning about wildlife and nature, something all too important for our children today.  The Backyard at the Nat opens July 20.  Make sure you check it out, it’s a must see.  You may also consider an annual membership for your family.  It’s only $79.00 for an annual membership (which includes two adults and up to four children).  The Nat has so many great member events, fun camps and awesome exhibits.

GIVEAWAY: Follow this blog and post a comment below about your favorite museum experience for a chance to win a copy of the book Coast to Cactus – The Canyoneer Trail Guide to San Diego Outdoors ($29.95 value).  Contest ends July 31st.  A winner will be chosen and contacted on August 1st via email. *Must be active blog follower so that we have your email contact information*