Functional mushrooms, like lion’s mane and reishi, among others, have been known to improve how the body responds to stress. Thus, taking a supplement that features functional mushrooms may help you fight stress and improve your overall mental health.
However, finding a supplement that features high-quality functional mushrooms is rather difficult. The market is full of mushroom supplements, with only a few actually offering what they claim, making it difficult for consumers to trust the quality of ingredients and efficacy of these supplements. So, we have independently tested 30+ mushroom supplements for anxiety in the market and made the job easier for you.
Here are our top 9 recommendations for mushroom supplements for anxiety and depression. We not only list the ingredients and positives, but we also share the probable negatives for each of these supplements.
Top 9 Best Mushroom Supplements For Anxiety
Keep reading to get a detailed review of the top brands our team of experts picked as the best mushroom supplements for anxiety.
Riti is #1 on our list for offering thebest mushroom gummies for anxiety and stress-related issues. These gummies are one of the most effective blends in the market and are manufactured using ethically sourced premium quality mushrooms.
The ingredient blend in these gummies combines 10 different mushroom extracts, including lion’s mane, shiitake, chaga, maitake, cordyceps, turkey tail, black fungus, white button, and royal sun.
Each mushroom type has a unique benefit to it.
For example, reishi mushrooms reduce anxiety, boost immunity, and improve the body’s overall vitality. Lion’s mane mushrooms enhance mental clarity and cognitive functions. Collectively, all the extracts in Riti mushroom gummies support nerve function for better attention and focus and show significant potential in modulating mood and response to sudden stress or anxiety.
The best part about Riti is that they’re transparent and safe, and all their products are third-party lab-tested. Moreover, these mushroom gummies for anxiety come in a natural raspberry flavor and are non-GMO verified. It is gelatin-free and gluten-free.
The product website suggests using these gummies as a dietary supplement, consuming two gummies daily. Each bottle contains 60 gummies.
Pros:
10 different mushroom extract blend
Wide spectrum benefits in mental and overall health
Enjoyable natural raspberry flavor
Ethically sourced premium ingredients
Non-GMO, gelatin-free, gluten-free, no artificial color
Cheef Botanicals is the second brand on our list of the best mushroom supplements for anxietyfor its commitment to the quality and purity of mushroom gummies. It offers gummies that aim to help users tackle anxiety and depression issues, along with energy boosts, immunity and focus improvement, and occasional stress management.
The mushroom gummies by the brand are infused with pure extracts from selected mushrooms like reishi, chaga, lion’s mane, and turkey tail and support immune health, brain, and cognitive functions.
The best mushroom gummies for anxiety and mental healthare available in three types: immunity, brain boost, and wellness. The immunity variant uses extracts from chaga, reishi, and turkey tail and supports immune health. The brain boost variant blends lion’s mane and reishi mushroom extracts. Lion’s mane mushroom extracts often treat oxidative stress and related disorders. That’s because it contains compounds like phenol that have antimicrobial properties. Ultimately leading to reduced or limited cellular and neurological damage, especially in cases of diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
At the same time, the wellness type is a more balanced one that combines lion’s mane, chaga, reishi, cordyceps, and turkey tail to offer a comprehensive approach to well-being.
The functional mushrooms used in these gummies fall into two categories: adaptogenic and nootropic. While the adaptogens in these mushrooms help in managing stress and anxiety, the nootropics aid cognitive functions like memory, focus, and mood.
These are small and bite-sized and come in various flavors to suit all kinds of palates. Apart from being super-delectable in taste, these mushroom gummies for anxietycome pre-dosed, meaning you get a consistent dosage, and are also convenient to incorporate into your daily health regime. Further, these gummies are vegan-friendly and, hence, suit all diets.
The recommended dosage is one gummy per day, and it should be used for at least 90 days to see results.
Pros:
Three different blends and targeted formulations for specific needs
High-quality mushroom extracts
Natural and vegan-friendly
Tasty fruity flavors and bite-sized for easy consumption
CBDfx mushroom supplement for anxiety is the next brand on our list of the most unique blends of supplements. The CBDfx mushroom supplements incorporate the calming effects of CBD with the health benefits of 7 different mushrooms for an overall health upliftment.
Also, these mushroom gummies have an extensive ingredient list, including mushroom extracts from chaga, lion’s mane, cordyceps, turkey tail, maitake, reishi, and shiitake. Most of these mushrooms have either adaptogenic or nootropic properties. That simply means it improves your thinking skills and makes you feel more alert, making these the best mushroom supplements for anxiety.
For example, maitake in this blend lends nutrients like vitamins B and C, copper, and other minerals like potassium, amino acids, fiber, and beta-glucans. Cordyceps is extremely high in several B vitamins like B1, B2, K, B12, etc. The shiitake mushroom extract has both nootropic and adaptogenic properties, which help manage physical and mental health and enhance cognitive functions like creativity, motivation, and memory. The adaptogenic properties in these mushrooms, reishi, lion’s mane, and chaga, also help maintain homeostasis (or balance) in the body.
Apart from the mushroom extracts, each gummy in the bottle contains about 25mg of CBD, which is known to help in relaxation and stress relief. The gummies come in a natural cherry flavor, providing a smooth texture and taste without artificial additives and flavors. The recommended serving is two gummies for adults.
Pros:
An innovative blend of 7 different mushroom extracts
25mg CBD in each capsule for improving stress relief and relaxation
No artificial colors or flavors
A tasty natural cherry flavor
Customers have also noticed reduced back pain and spasms
Users are also impressed with improved anxiety and sleep
Elm & Rye creates high-quality, pure, ethically sourced products. Not only do these are one of the best mushrooms that help with anxiety and offer numerous health issues, but they also come in various forms, like capsules, gummies, and coffee creamers.
This mushroom complex combines functional mushrooms like maitake, lion’s mane, shiitake, reishi, cordyceps, and chaga to give you extensive benefits in overall physical and mental health. It also contains other ingredients in each of the three variants: glucose syrup, pectin, citric acid, sodium citrate, natural flavor, and vegetable oil.
These blends synergistically provide various health benefits, like supporting the immune system and enhancing cognitive functions, apart from improving overall wellness.
These gummies and capsules are suitable only for adults, with a recommended dosage of one capsule or gummy per serving. However, the product website does not mention the exact number of gummies or capsules in each bottle.
Pros:
Blends several functional mushrooms for maximum efficacy
Available in different forms – capsules, gummies, creamers
Suitable for overall physical and mental health
Quality assured with lab test results available on the website
If you want a versatile option in mushroom supplements, the 5th brand on our list – SUKU Vitamins, is your go-to product. Super mushroom gummies by the brand are packed with nutrition and flavor. These mushroom gummies for anxiety combine four functional mushrooms: reishi, chaga, lion’s mane, and turkey tail.
These espresso-flavored mushrooms are known for their adaptogenic properties, aiding immune health and cognitive functioning. So, these supplements can be excellent for anyone looking to include a natural and immune-boosting supplement in their routine.
The reishi mushroom extract used in these supplements helps restore a person’s balance. It can help individuals suffering from depression adapt to different psychological as well as biological stresses. It is assumed to be promising in treating insomnia, paranoia, alcoholic dependence, and OCD, and also reduces psychological distress and suicidal tendencies.
Moreover, these mushroom supplements for anxietyare great if you’re looking for gluten and sugar-free options. They are also non-GMO, non-allergic (no dairy, nuts, soy, egg, etc.), and free from artificial colors. So, even individuals with dietary restrictions can incorporate these gummies into their daily regime.
Each bottle contains 60 gummies. The official website says the recommended dosage is two gummies per day with food and should be stored in dry conditions under 15-25 degrees Celsius. Like other gummies, the SUKU Vitamins supplement also requires consistent usage to show results.
Pros:
Tasty espresso flavor
Combines four potent functional mushroom extracts
Vegan and keto-friendly
Free from any artificial additives and colors
30-days money back guarantee
Cons:
It may have a diuretic effect, which may not be suitable for all users.
Real Mushrooms is known for its 100% organic mushroom extracts, making it one of the most reliable brands for buying mushroom supplements for anxiety. These supplements are made of reishi mushrooms, a core ingredient in the blend extracted using the dual extraction method with alcohol and hot water.
Reishi mushrooms are renowned for their potential benefits in reducing stress and boosting immune health. They contain 25% beta-glucans, which is a highly potent compound, and over 4% triterpenes, ensuring maximum efficacy in treating symptoms of hopelessness, anxiety, and depression.
Using resihi mushrooms for anxietyas the main component, these capsules offer a super-potent and effective solution to manage stress, anxiety, and depression-like symptoms. Other ingredients include hypromellose (vegetable capsule), microcrystalline cellulose, silicon dioxide, and may also contain stearic acid.
The Real Mushrooms reishi capsules are free from starch, mycelium, and any kind of grain fillers to retain the potency of the mushroom extract. It’s also gluten-free, non-GMO, and vegan-friendly.
There are two size options available to buyers – 90 and 200 capsule bottles and the recommended dosage is two capsules daily. So, if you’re new to mushroom supplements, you can opt for the smaller size and then move to the bigger one if it is effective.
Oweli Shrooms has been the top choice of many for supplements supporting immune health, stress management, cognitive function, and overall brain health, and thus, it finds a place on our list of best mushroom supplements for anxiety.
This mushroom supplement for anxiety is a holistic blend of 10 functional mushroom extracts, including lion’s mane, reishi, cordyceps, shiitake, maitake, turkey tail, chaga, royal sun, white button, and black fungus. Ethically sourced and scientifically formulated, these ingredients maintain the highest quality.
Most of these mushrooms for anxietyhave adaptogenic properties, making them the right choice for anyone looking for supplements for anxiety and depression. These capsules can potentially improve how the body responds to sudden stress and alleviate extreme problems.
Unlike caffeine and other conventional stimulants, the adaptogens in chaga mushrooms regulate the metabolism in your body and also trigger reduced effects of stress and depression. The same is true with turkey tail mushrooms due to the high content of vitamin B6, which slows down the brain’s activity.
Apart from these main extracts, the blend contains cellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, and magnesium stearate. Each bottle contains 30 capsules; the recommended dosage for adults is two daily. If unsatisfied with the results, the brand offers a 100-day bottom-of-the-bottle refund guarantee.
Pros:
A blend of 10 functional mushroom extracts
Reduces anxiety and signs of depression
Improves cognitive and immune health
Manufactured in FDA-registered facilities and CGMP-compliant
The NutriFlair mushroom supplement is an impressive blend of 10 functional mushrooms offering improved mental clarity and focus.
The supplement blend includes mushroom extracts like cordyceps, lion’s mane, chaga, reishi, turkey tail, maitake, shiitake, oyster, enoki, and Agaricus. These are the mushrooms good for anxietymanagement and popular for their distinctive benefits in aiding mental health and overall well-being.
Each mushroom supplement for anxiety contains 2600 mg of extract combined from all of these different mushrooms. However, the official website provides information only on the concentration of the three main ingredients – reishi, cordyceps, and lion’s mane mushrooms. The other mushroom extracts are provided in a proprietary blend.
Moreover, studies show that lion’s mane mushroom extract is beneficial for anxiety and depression only with a minimum dose of 3000 mg per day, which is far from the 800 mg provided in this supplement.
The mushroom supplements for anxietyare non-GMO, gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan and have no artificial colors or added sugar. But despite the rich ingredient list and popularity of the NutriFlair mushroom supplements, it’s often considered less effective than the others on the list.
Per the brand’s official website, each bottle contains 30 capsules; the suggested use is 3 capsules per day with a meal.
Pros:
Specifically, it targets brain and immune health
Vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free, no artificial colors or added sugar
All natural ingredients
Users have noticed improved mental clarity and energy
People have also seen improved emotional stability and mood
Cons:
No information about third-party lab test results on the website
#9. Nootrum
Nootrum mushrooms are one of the most affordably priced supplements available now. Nootrum’s mushrooms for anxietyare formulated using a unique blend of extracts from reishi, cordyceps, lion’s mane, shiitake, maitake, chaga, turkey tail, royal sun, Agaricus, black fungus, and white button mushrooms. It’s a powerful combination of the most commonly used mushrooms in indigenous healing practices across the world.
These medicinal mushroom extracts, along with ingredients like amanita, L-theanine, and ginger, offer enhanced relief from stress, anxiety, and depression-related problems. Moreover, these ingredients also provide benefits like boosted immunity, better focus, lower inflammation levels, and better mental clarity.
Apart from improving cerebral blood flow and enhancing stamina, you’ll see a noticeable improvement in sleep and focus. So, if you need help building a stronger immunity or improving memory skills, the Nootrum mushrooms will be a great buy.
Each bottle contains 30 servings, and it’s recommended to consume 2 gummies daily.
Pros:
Multiple mushroom extracts for optimum health benefits
Improves cognitive functions like memory and focus
Provides immune-boosting benefits
Free from any artificial additives
Cons:
There is no flavor mentioned on the official website.
What Are Mushroom Supplements?
Mushroom supplements for anxiety are nothing but dried and milled whole mushrooms packaged in different forms like powders, pills, gummies, or even liquid tinctures.
The main ingredient in these supplements is mushroom extract. Made from fruiting bodies, mycelium, or sometimes even whole mushrooms, the supplements are designed to offer a small and more concentrated dose of this bioactive compound.
While some mushroom varieties are known to offer greater benefits in boosting immunity, others encourage nerve growth and treat anxiety. Some of the most common mushroom varieties used in supplements are reishi, lion’s mane, cordyceps, chaga, shiitake, turkey tail, and psilocybin (hallucinogenic).
Benefits Of Taking Mushrooms For Anxiety
Although mushrooms have been used for their potential medicinal benefits since as long as 450 BC, it is yet to be scientifically validated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, many have been using mushroom pills for anxietyand have noticed a significant improvement in their condition over time.
Some of the major benefits people have noticed include:
Reduced depression and anxiety
Improved cognitive function
Mood regulation
Better sleep and relaxation
Research says that certain mushroom compounds interact with the chemicals in our brains. For example, the psilocybin variety of mushrooms has hallucinogenic compounds that are similar to the serotonin compound in our brains.
Many believe it is likely to increase anxiety and depression, but it has been shown to have long-lasting benefits in improving them. It acts on the serotoninergic system of our body to restore the serotonin levels that are associated with mood and anxiety.
What Are The Best Mushroom Supplements For Anxiety & Depression?
Almost all types of mushrooms are known to provide some health benefits, be it improving immunity or gut health. But, not all of them are beneficial in treating anxiety and depression.
The best mushrooms for anxiety and depression are:
Reishi Mushroom for Anxiety
These are often called the “mushroom for immortality”. The reason is its stress-relieving and immune-boosting properties. The triterpenes (sedative compounds) in these mushrooms have calming properties working on the nervous system to improve sleep quality and promote relaxation. These triterpenes often interact with the GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric acid) pathway, an inhibitory neurotransmitter responsible for neural activity in the brain and promoting sleep.
Reishi mushroom for anxietyare also highly potent adaptogens, meaning they can regulate the stress hormones in our bodies. This directly helps balance the cortisol and adrenaline levels, which modulates how our body reacts to stress and aids it in overcoming it faster.
Lion’s Mane Mushroom for Anxiety
It’s one of the most researched mushroom varieties for its potential benefits in treating anxiety and depression. It improves mood regulation by preventing the decrease of serotonin and dopamine, which directly affects anxiety in humans. These mushrooms’ erinacine content (bioactive compound) also supports brain functions and nerve growth.
Lion’s mane mushrooms are believed to reduce loss of nerve growth due to stress and anxiety. It is also considered a potential alternative medicine to protect against Alzheimer’s and other cognitive impairment diseases.
Cordyceps Mushroom for Anxiety
Caterpillar mushrooms or cordyceps mushrooms are a collective of 400+ species. Many animal and preliminary human studies show that cordyceps are mushrooms good for anxiety. Its compounds may help in energy-boosting and potentially modulate the body’s response to stress.
One species in the group of cordyceps mushrooms is cordyceps miliaris. It is used in many supplemental tonics for its possible benefit in treating neurological disorders like anxiety and epilepsy. Like reishi mushrooms for anxiety, cordyceps also have adaptogenic properties that help resist mental fatigue and stress by modulating the adrenal glands.
Can Mushrooms Help With Anxiety?
Yes, certain mushrooms can potentially help with anxiety.
Numerous studies point to how microdosing of mushrooms can significantly improve depression and reduce feelings of hopelessness. It also shows a potential improvement in mood and overall cognitive function across different age groups and genders. Mushrooms like lion’s mane have been greatly beneficial in preventing the decrease of serotonin and dopamine levels and also in mediating after-effects like antidepressants.
But it’s also necessary to approach this with a balanced view. That’s because although there has been some promising research, there is yet to be any scientific conclusive evidence for it.
Factors To Consider Before Buying Mushrooms That Help With Anxiety
People who want to include mushroom supplements for anxiety in their health regime should consider the factors below to make an informed decision.
Mushroom Types:
Not all mushrooms help with anxiety and depression. So, when choosing the supplement, understand and check its mushroom type. For example, reishi mushrooms have calming properties, while lion’s mane helps improve mood, and cordyceps are for stress resistance.
Dosage:
The dosage is as important as the ingredient in the mushroom supplement for anxiety. It also depends on the severity of the health issues you’re facing. So, it’s ideal to follow the dosage recommended on the product label or consult a healthcare professional before opting for one. Keep in mind that while overdosing can have adverse effects, underdosing may seem like the product is ineffective.
Ingredients:
Always check if the mushrooms are sourced and third-party tested. Check for pure extracts and additives that may dilute the product’s efficacy. Look for where the mushrooms are sourced from on the brand website or the product label. Also, check for any ingredient you may be allergic to.
Brand Reputation:
Always opt for established brands with good footing in the market when going for the best mushrooms for mental health and anxiety. That’s because such brands will have rigorous testing and quality control procedures. You can also check the brand website to know the manufacturing process and commitment to safety.
Quality
Quality is THE most important aspect to look for in mushroom supplements for anxiety. Good quality mushroom supplements will have third-party test results. You can also look for indicators like organic, non-GMO, and sustainably sourced products.
Customer Reviews
Go through product reviews on e-commerce platforms as well as brand websites. E-commerce platforms offer real insights into the product’s efficacy, potential side effects, and the overall impact on users.
How Many Mushrooms Should You Take For Anxiety?
For any mushroom supplement for anxiety and depression, the dosage depends on many factors. Like the concentration of the extract, the type of mushroom, the formulation of the product, and most importantly, the health condition you’re facing. So, it’s always best to consult a professional for a personalized regime or follow the recommended dosage guidelines on the product packaging.
A word of advice: if you’re new to mushroom supplements for anxiety, always start with a low dose. Observe and understand how your body reacts to the supplement, and then you can gradually increase the dosage if required.
FAQs About Mushrooms For Anxiety And Depression
Q1. How do anxiety and depression affect the body?
Depression and anxiety are serious medical conditions that not only affect the body but also the quality of life you lead. Apart from symptoms like overwhelming grief or guilt, it can severely impact the digestive, cardiovascular, and immune systems. Some common effects include recurring pain, fatigue, poor appetite, insomnia, and even a decreased drive for sex.
Q2. How to take mushrooms for anxiety & depression?
Most medicinal mushrooms require consistent use over a period to be able to show effects on anxiety and depression. Ideally, you should allow at least three months for the daily regime to deliver results. Although, you can expect to see improvements during the period itself. For the dosage, you can follow the instructions on the product label.
Q3. What are the potential side effects of using mushrooms for anxiety?
Although mushrooms that help with anxiety are safe for consumption, they do have some potential side effects like itchiness, diarrhea, dry mouth, and gastrointestinal issues. It can also show allergic reactions in some people. Moreover, these supplements may interact with other medications like medicines for blood pressure and diabetes.
Q4. How long does mushroom for anxiety take to work?
Our bodies react differently to supplements. So, the time mushroom supplements take to help with anxiety differs for each one of us. Factors like metabolism, severity of symptoms, lifestyle, period of use, diet, and even the type of mushroom supplement you’re taking play a role. Generally, it can take a few weeks to a few months to show results.
Q5. Can you take mushroom supplements with other anxiety medications?
It’s important to understand that some mushroom supplements for anxiety can affect how other drugs or medicines are metabolized in your body. Some mushroom supplements can also amplify the effects of other anxiety medications, potentially leading to over-sedation. So, if you’re already on antidepressants or other medicines, you should check with a healthcare professional before opting for supplements.
Concluding Thoughts: What Mushrooms Are Good For Anxiety?
Medicinal mushrooms offer a range of health benefits, especially for people suffering from anxiety, poor mood levels, and depression. But the efficacy also largely depends on the product’s quality, extraction, and formulation. So, it’s key to finding the right brand that uses ethically sourced and high-quality mushroom pills for anxiety.
Among all the mushroom supplements for anxiety we tested, we found Riti’s supplements stand out in quality and efficacy. They are transparent in their approach and use premium quality ingredients that ensure they’re safe and you get value from your investment. Note: If you’re already on medication for any ailments, always check with a healthcare professional before introducing mushroom gummies for anxietyto your daily routine.
Studio S
JUNE 15, 2026
A Modern Take on Steak
Stake Chophouse & Bar brings contemporary classics and old-school service to the heart of
Coronado
Stake Chophouse & Bar isn’t your average steakhouse. Blue Bridge Hospitality’s Coronado outpost is a modern interpretation of a big-city steakhouse nestled in the heart of the small coastal community. The team at Stake has reimagined the whole steakhouse experience. By prioritizing a seasonal farm-to-table sourcing philosophy, a personalized guest experience, and unique service touches, like a formal steak presentation and a bespoke knife selection process, Stake distinguishes itself in a sea of steakhouses.
Exceptional steaks, including Wagyu from Japan, Australia, and the U.S., and fresh seafood flown in daily form the core of Stake’s culinary identity. The menu features a five-course omakase-style steak experience highlighting house favorites, plus an array of cuts, and classic steakhouse staples—think a wedge salad, baked potato, or pasta carbonara—refined for a contemporary palate without losing their traditional appeal. Stake focuses on seasonal sourcing from the region’s best family farms and specialty purveyors, and incorporates intentionally unexpected touches to create something truly unique.
“I challenge our chefs and myself to take it a step further in sourcing,” says Chef Ronnie Schwandt. “It’s important to us to highlight different farms, unique one-off farms—whether it’s cattle, strawberries, a local fisherman or from anywhere in the United States, we’re always trying to find that niche.”
Beyond the menu, Stake emphasizes outstanding service, says Vinny Spatafore, Director of Hospitality Operations. Staff maintains detailed notes, allowing them to remember guests by name, recall previous orders such as a favorite martini (also memorable for the customer since it’s served in an extra tall, distinctly-shaped glass), and celebrate special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries.
“When you have those points of topic that you remember about a guest, they appreciate that,” he says. “Our servers are really good with that—we have a couple servers who have been here since the beginning and they’ll remember somebody from years ago, their name, their kids’ names, where they live. I’m really thankful to have a great front of house staff.”
Award-winning wines, rare whiskeys, special events, and a complementary black car service that provides transportation for guests throughout Coronado add to Stake’s appeal.
Schwandt stresses that Stake offers more than a meal; they aim to give patrons something unforgettable.
“It starts when you walk up the stairs and are greeted by the hostess—that sets the tone for the night. Then you’re greeted by a server, who may know you by name, and can guide you through the menu and curate as they get to know you,” says Schwandt. “Most people leave kind of blown away; they leave feeling like they just had an experience. That’s the goal, right? Whether you’re serving smash burgers or high-end steak, you want somebody to leave thinking, Wow, that was awesome.”
While glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agents have been used to treat Type 2 diabetes for more than 20 years, their recent emergence as weight-loss wonder drugs marked a new frontier in medicine. But their effectiveness has left some patients wondering what to do once they’ve reached their goal. Stopping the medication could mean regaining some, if not all, of the weight. A Scripps Clinic internal medicine physician recently conducted a small study of whether GLP-1 patients who had reached their goal weight could maintain that weight by taking their regularly prescribed injection every other week instead of weekly. Spoiler alert: 30 of 34 patients did. Read more about the study here and what that may mean as pharmaceutical companies roll out oral GLP-1s.
For more nutrition, wellness, and healthy living tips, sign up for the San Diego Health newsletter here.
The iconic 1,200-acre preserve’s history dates back more than 150 years, evolving from a scrub-filled plot atop a mesa overlooking what’s now Downtown to an urban oasis—the largest of its kind in the country—filled with an array of museums, attractions, gardens, trails, restaurants, and more. Balboa Park is an epic playground where San Diegans and visitors alike can experience the great outdoors just as easily as they can enjoy a world-class performance or explore groundbreaking discoveries.
Tucked away in the Spanish Colonial Revival-style architecture are 18 diverse museums that allow visitors to spend the day learning about, well, anything. A great place to start is the San Diego History Center. Located in the Casa del Balboa building, the museum tells the story of the city’s past, present, and future through photographs and art, clothing and textiles, and interviews with people who witnessed history-making events firsthand. The San Diego Natural History Museum takes visitors even farther back with interactive exhibitions that show what the region was like up to 75 million years ago.
Blast off on a simulated trip to space at the San Diego Air & Space Museum, then check out artifacts from aviation legends, including the Wright brothers, Amelia Earhart, and Buzz Aldrin. Discover new perspectives revolutionizing the science world, learn about an often overlooked but overutilized utility, and exercise your creativity at the Fleet Science Center.
Calling all theater-lovers, Balboa Park has something for you, too. The San Diego Junior Theatre will present their musical take on beloved children’s book A Bad Case of the Stripes from June 26 through July 12. And laugh, cry, and marvel in awe as the pros of The Old Globe perform Kim’s Convenience, the award-winning comedy that inspired the popular series, from May 15 to June 14.
There’s nowhere else in Balboa Park quite like WorldBeat Cultural Center. The institution celebrates African diaspora and indigenous cultures around the world using art, music, dance, and education. The building, a renovated water tower covered in colorful murals, houses a performing arts center, museum, gift shop, cafe, and outdoor classroom.
If you’d like a side of nature with your culture, Balboa Park has you covered there, too. Stroll through the gardens of the Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum, a monument to the relationship between San Diego and its sister city, Yokohama, Japan. Inspired by traditional Japanese design dating back centuries, the 10-acre respite features a living exhibition that showcases plants native to both cities.
If there seems like a lot going on in Balboa Park, it’s because there is. Let theBalboa Park Cultural Partnership be your guide. The organization is the umbrella for 24 of the park’s institutions and offers an Explorer Pass that allows visitors to access multiple museums for one affordable price. The hardest part is picking where to start.
16 Museums, One Pass
Save on admission to San Diego’s top museums with the Balboa Park Explorer Pass. Explore 16 museums of art, science, history and culture across Balboa Park — all with one affordable pass. Choose the option that fits your pace: the Limited Pass (one day for up to four museums), the Parkwide Pass (seven consecutive days of access to all 16 museums) or the Annual Pass (365 days of unlimited exploring).
Looking for an experience-driven gift? Let the museum lover in your life enjoy their favorite museums all year with a Balboa Park Explorer Annual Pass gift voucher.
Bigger experiments, brighter ideas, and boundless curiosity await at the newly reimagined Fleet Science Center. This summer, the Fleet debuts Element 8 Cafe, an expanded theater queuing and concessions space, two new gallery spaces, and, for the first time, a free entrance gallery exploring science in and around San Diego. The transformation marks a new chapter for the Fleet, keeping it a vital, innovative, and accessible science hub for the region. Visitors are invited to explore the experience this summer and connect with the power of science like never before.
Address: 1875 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101 Website:FleetScience.org Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily Phone: 619-238-1233
Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum
An accredited cultural gem, the Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum brings traditional Japanese garden design to life with koi ponds, curving walkways and layers of greenery. Guests explore bonsai trees, streams and peaceful nooks while taking part in exhibits, educational programs and festivals that illuminate Japanese culture. Situated in the heart of Balboa Park, the garden doubles as a meditative retreat and a dynamic gathering place, welcoming visitors to slow their pace and connect more deeply.
Address: 2215 Pan American Road E, San Diego, CA 92101 Website:Niwa.org Hours: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily; last admission at 6 p.m. Phone: 619-232-2721
The Old Globe
A San Diego summer favorite, The Old Globe invites audiences to experience a beloved local tradition in its outdoor Lowell Davies Festival Theatre.
This summer, the 2026 Shakespeare Festival presents two thrilling tales of power, passion and romance. Measure for Measure, running June 14 through July 12, 2026, is a riveting story of justice and hypocrisy that asks who holds power, who is punished and what it truly means to be virtuous. Much Ado About Nothing, playing Aug. 2–30, 2026, is a classic rom-com packed with schemes, sparks and laughter as opposites attract. Audiences can enjoy both shows for $44.
Address: 1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego, CA 92101 Website:TheOldGlobe.org Hours: Box office open Tuesday–Sunday, 1 p.m. to final curtain Phone: Box office, 619-234-5623
San Diego Air & Space Museum
Aviation and space exploration come to life at the San Diego Air & Space Museum. See an airworthy replica of the Spirit of St. Louis, a Gee Bee racer and historic aircraft from World War I, World War II and the Korean and Vietnam eras. Get up close to the Apollo 9 command module — one of only 11 of its kind in the world — along with Mercury and Gemini capsules, Mission Control and space shuttle simulators, and a selfie spot beside a lunar lander on the moon. Running through 2026, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! brings oddities from around the world to Balboa Park.
Address: 2001 Pan American Plaza, San Diego, CA 92101 Website:SanDiegoAirAndSpace.org Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Phone: 619-234-8291
San Diego History Center
History belongs to everyone. At the San Diego History Center, two experiences bring that history to life this summer: America at 250 and the Center for Women’s History. America at 250 traces San Diego’s place in 250 years of U.S. history, while summer programs invite children to learn and explore. The Center for Women’s History amplifies the voices of women whose leadership and creativity have shaped our region.
By understanding our past, we build a more vibrant and inclusive community together. These vital educational experiences are only possible through generous community support. Discover your roots, spark meaningful dialogue, and help keep San Diego’s stories alive for future generations.
Address: 1649 El Prado, Suite 3, San Diego, CA 92101 Website: SanDiegoHistory.org Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday–Sunday Phone: 619-232-6203
San Diego Junior Theatre
Junior Theatre is San Diego’s longest-running youth theatre program, empowering students ages 4 to 18 to explore storytelling, performance, and collaboration in a supportive environment. Through classes, camps, and productions, young artists build confidence, creativity, and lifelong skills onstage and off. Each season features a wide range of opportunities, from introductory experiences to advanced training in acting and musical theatre.
Looking for a summer adventure? Junior Theatre’s Summer Camps deliver dynamic programs for grades K–12, including musical theater intensives, acting academies and immersive JT Studio experiences. It’s a place where imagination truly takes center stage.
Address: 1650 El Prado, Suite 208, San Diego, CA 92101 Website:JuniorTheatre.com Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Phone: 619-239-1311
San Diego Natural History Museum (The Nat)
This summer, The Nat is talking trash—literally. Their newest exhibition, Washed Ashore: Art to Save the Sea, features larger‑than‑life marine sculptures made of ocean debris collected from beaches. It invites visitors to explore the impact of plastic pollution and discover ways to take action.
But the experience doesn’t stop at the gallery doors. Friday nights, the exhibition transforms into an ocean-themed “dive bar” during Nat at Night. Select Sundays bring something brand new: a rooftop brunch with sweeping Balboa Park views. Add two new giant-screen films and five floors of nature to explore, and The Nat is shaping up to be one of the season’s must-visit destinations.
Address: 1788 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101 Website: SDNat.org Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays in summer Phone: 619-232-3821
WorldBeat Cultural Center
The WorldBeat Cultural Center is a nonprofit multidisciplinary cultural organization dedicated to promoting, presenting and preserving Indigenous cultures worldwide through music, art, dance, education, sustainability and community programs. WorldBeat elevates multicultural artists, expands opportunities for cultural enrichment and fosters deeper understanding across traditions. WorldBeat offers a holistic cultural experience that inspires pride, unity, connection and belonging for all ages.
Address: 2100 Park Blvd., San Diego, CA 92101 Website:WorldBeatCenter.org Hours: Classes: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, 6–9 p.m. Exhibits and café: Friday–Sunday, 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Phone: 619-230-1190
Event Calendar
Throughout 2026: Ripley’s Believe It Or Not!
Step into a world of the weird and wonderful at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! at the San Diego Air & Space Museum in Balboa Park. Explore hundreds of bizarre artifacts, interactive displays and unbelievable stories that celebrate the curious and the extraordinary.
Presented in partnership with the San Diego Museum of African American Fine Arts, San Diego’s Lost Neighborhoods uses augmented reality, oral histories, and archival materials to explore communities and residents displaced by redlining, freeway construction, and other discriminatory policies.
Spend a summer night at The Old Globe. The Lowell Davies Festival Theatre stages Measure for Measure (June 14–July 12) and Much Ado About Nothing (Aug. 2–30), offering two unforgettable Shakespeare productions for just $44.
The Old Globe | 1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego, CA 92101
June 8–Aug. 7: Theatre Summer Camps
Summer camps at Junior Theatre spark creativity for grades K–12 with hands-on training, musical theatre intensives, acting academies, and JT Studio experiences.
A museum visit turns into a Sunday Funday with the addition of rooftop brunch, featuring mimosas, bloody Marys, and brunch bites from Wolfish by Wolf in the Woods (June 14, August 9) and Hash House a Go Go (July 12).
Nagashi at the Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum by floating a lantern to honor loved ones who have passed. Stroll merchant booths, enjoy cultural performances in the Inamori Pavilion, and sample food vendors plus a beer and sake garden in the lower garden.
Explore arts, science, history, and culture in the Balboa Park Cultural District with one convenient, affordable Pass. The Balboa Park Explorer Pass is your ticket to up to 16 museums and endless fun! Purchase your pass at BuyMyExplorer.com.
La Gran Terraza, the University of San Diego’s signature restaurant, has been a campus favorite for over 16 years, offering California cuisine with a Mediterranean twist. This summer, its gastropub, O’Toole’s, is open for evening service —perfect for sunset bites and drinks.
At the helm is chef Marbi Becerra, a Culinary Institute of America alum with roots in the US and Mexico. She now leads culinary operations for La Gran Terraza and USD Catering, bringing bold Mediterranean flavors and a fresh perspective.
Try This!
Seared Scallops: With charred broccolini oyster mushrooms corn puree herb cherry tomatoes and chimichurri
Labora Café offers so much more than premium ceremonial-grade matcha; it’s a lifestyle café where people come to feel more energized, inspired, and connected to their community. Labora partners with retailers and lifestyle brands, from local Pilates instructors to Neiman Marcus, so there’s always something new to learn about or browse when you’re here. As for the drinks, whether you’re thinking matcha or Vietnamese coffee with a specialty house-made foam on top, expect a natural pick-me-up, without extra sugars or syrups.
Try This!
Pistachio 54: Pistachio foam layered with a slow drip Viet coffee or Matcha
Labora Café
8055 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, Suite 101, San Diego, California 92111 858-471-6970 | laboracafe.com | @laborasd
Happy Medium lives in the sweet spot: not too fancy, not too gritty. Think dive bar soul with cocktail bar standards. It’s the kind of place where you can grab a beer and a shot, a fancy cocktail, plus a killer spirits list. The menu includes all the best bar classics along with elevated plates. Some would call it a “happy medium.” With your favorite B-side tracks always playing in the background, Happy Medium is the ultimate neighborhood hangout spot.
Try This!
Lava Flowgroni: Pineapple gin layered with strawberry Campari, banana vermouth and coconut, served over crushed party ice.
Happy Medium
4002 30th Street, San Diego, California 92104 619-310-5642 | happymediumsd.com
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