New Exhibits, Cafe Open At Renovated Fleet Science Center

SAN DIEGO, CA — The Fleet Science Center recently unveiled new exhibit galleries, updated visitor spaces and a new cafe following the completion of its largest renovation project in decades.

The San Diego museum completed the second phase of its Science Starts Here capital campaign, a $5.6 million project funded by a grant from the state. The renovation expanded public exhibit space by more than 20% while keeping the work within the building's existing footprint.

The updated Fleet now includes a new free entrance gallery featuring San Diego's science, innovation and natural wonders, along with two new exhibit spaces.

Mindbender Mansion, located in the former entry rotunda, features interactive brainteasers and challenges. A newly opened basement gallery features winners from the ZWO Astronomy Photographer of the Year competition.

The project also redesigned the theater queuing and concessions area and introduced Element 8 Cafe, a new dining space operated by the Fleet that offers locally sourced menu items and an ice cream area inspired by the museum’s former restaurant.

"This transformation represents our dedication to the community and to connecting San Diegans to the power of science for generations to come," Fleet Science Center President and CEO Steve Snyder said in a statement.

The renovation marks the Fleet's first major update since the late 1990s. The project was designed by Carrier Johnson + Culture and completed by Pacific Builders Group.

The Fleet Science Center, located in Balboa Park, is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit fleetscience.org.