Unexpectedly, my and I spent about two hours at the San Diego History Center’s Ingenious! The World of Dr. Seuss exhibit. (Update: It is no longer on display.) This is well above our average visit time to most museums in Balboa Park (at least when she is in tow), but due to how appealing this fantastic exhibit is to anyone who grew up reading Dr. Seuss books.
Theodor Geisel (a.k.a. Dr. Seuss) is one of La Jolla’s most famous residents and was a valued advocate for our seaside community as a member of the La Jolla Town Council. The view from his home office was a source of inspiration, according to this article from LIFE magazine.
The exhibit features a collection of authorized estate editions adapted and reproduced from Theodor Seuss Geisel’s original paintings, drawings and sculpture. These items are on display with exclusive permission from his family.
The exhibit itself isn’t enormous, but it’s very well done. Not only is there a small library with big floor cushions on which you may enjoy a number of Dr. Seuss books at your leisure, but each section features a different craft for you and the kids to do.
My daughter made trees and plants out of pipe cleaners in honor of The Lorax, paper hats and more.
To be honest, if we weren’t pressed for time I think she would have cycled through each of the craft tables again.
Some of the art on display depicts a Dr. Seuss that most people aren’t familiar with. His “Midnight Paintings” aren’t exactly what one might find in his children’s books. Particularly fascinating are the Birdwomen, though to represent his take on La Jolla socialites.
Then, take a few minutes to tour the kids around the rest of the museum. My daughter always loves figuring out where we and all of her friends live on the giant floor map of San Diego.
Ingenious! The World of Dr. Seuss Admission Details
Ingenious! The World of Dr. Seuss’ is normally included with general admission. However, this exhibit is NOT included with Resident’s FREE Tuesday admission, on FREE Tuesday our prices for ‘Ingenious! The World of Dr. Seuss are:
- $5 adults, seniors, students, military (retired & dependents)
- $2 youth ages 6-17
- Free children ages 0-5, active duty military, SDHC members
- Explorer and Go pass holders are free but require check in at the Admissions desk
Dr. Seuss plays a role in San Diego’s history so I would highly encourage you to take the kids to the San Diego History Center while the exhibit is still live. You have until December 31, 2015.
(Also, we are absolutely loving our Balboa Park Explorer Pass that allows year-round admission to each of the museums. It’s $199 for the entire family.)
Katie Dillon
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