The ruined cities of the ancient Maya have captured our imaginations since news of their discovery in the jungles of Central America was published in the 1840s. Extensive research has uncovered a culture with a sophisticated worldview that, during its Classic period (250-900 AD), rivaled any civilization in Europe. Maya: Hidden Worlds Revealed, an original exhibition, sheds light on this mysterious and majestic ancient culture.
At 10,000 square feet, Maya: Hidden Worlds Revealed is the largest exhibition about the ancient Maya ever to be displayed in the United States. Created by the Science Museum of Minnesota, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, and the Museum of Science, Boston, the exhibition debuted in St. Paul, Minnesota in 2013 and now makes it West Coast premiere.
Maya: Hidden Worlds Revealed uses a combination of hundreds of authentic artifacts, immersive environments, multimedia components, and hands-on activities to explore the rise and eventual decline of these fascinating ancient cities.
The exhibition gives visitors a glimpse at a cross-section of Maya life—from divine kings who ruled powerful cities to the artisans and laborers who formed the backbone of Maya society.
Visitors will see spectacular examples of Maya artistry made by masters of their craft, along with objects from everyday life. They’ll also get a close look at the scientific work being carried out at key Maya sites across Central America to understand exactly how we know what we know of the once-hidden Maya of the ancient past.
Presented in English and Spanish.
Made possible with support from the National Endowment for the Humanities.
Adult: $29
Senior (62+)/Military/College Student: $27
Youth (7-17): $19
Child (3-6): $11
Adult: $16
Senior (62+)/Military/College Student: $14
Youth (7-17): $11
Child (3-6): $9
To purchase tickets and reserve an entry time on the same day of your visit: Please call Customer Service directly at 877.946.7797 to make your purchase.
Maya: Hidden Worlds Revealed is not included in Residents’ Free Tuesday
If you have a Balboa Park Explorer, San Diego GoCard, or other passes for general admission to theNAT, you can purchase an upgrade ticket to see Maya: Hidden Worlds Revealed at discounted rates. Purchase tickets at the Admissions Desk on the day of your visit.
Adult: $19 | Senior (62+)/Military/College Student: $17 | Youth (7-17): $13 | Child (3-6): $11
Discount tickets are available for groups of 10 or more. Maya: Hidden Worlds Revealed is perfect for adult, youth, senior, and tour groups. Advance reservations are required.
Teachers: Planning your next school field trip? Discount school group rates are available with advanced reservations. Field trip reservations fill up quickly. Act now!
During evening hours, Maya: Hidden Worlds Revealed is available for private events. Corporations, organizations, and social groups can enjoy a buy-out of this exhibition for an unforgettable and unique Museum experience. Contact events@sdnhm.org.
Open daily 10 AM to 5 PM
Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Hours subject to change.Please plan on spending at least 90 minutes exploring this exhibition.