Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego | La Jolla, San Diego, California, United States

Oceanfront Modern Art Venue in La Jolla

Host events in a space where architecture, art, and ocean views converge.

The Lowdown

Type: Art Gallery Other

Views: Coastline Ocean

Style: Coastal
Contemporary
Cultural
Modern
Sophisticated

Best type of Celebrations

Venue Setting

The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego sits on the edge of the Pacific in the heart of La Jolla, a coastal village known for its natural beauty and cultural vibrancy. The museum’s setting blends striking modern architecture with expansive ocean views, creating a seamless connection between art, design, and landscape. Steps from La Jolla’s beaches, cliffs, and boutiques, the venue offers an unparalleled balance of sophistication and a distinctly Southern California sense of place.

Capacity

Seated: 750

Buffet: 750

Standing: 1500

Fees

(Prices listed here are estimates only & are subject to change)

Price range: Join the party and sign in to view pricing

Does this include catering fees?: No

Estimated price per head: from $100 to $200

Full venue buyout option: from $8,000 to $25,000

Insurance: Additional Insurance May Be Required Depending On The Event

Connect

Call Venue

Event Logistics and Amenities

(Essential event logistics and amenities to ensure a seamless and memorable experience for you gathering)

Celebrations hosted here since: 1980
Renovated In: 2022
Curfew: 2 AM
Venue spaces: Indoor & Outdoor Venue Spaces Available
Catering: Client Must Select A Caterer From The List Provided By The Venue
Alcohol: Licensed Server Is Required
Music: Indoors & Outdoors
Smoking: Non-smoking Venue
Accommodations: Prebys Art Center – Includes flexible support spaces that may be used as private lounges or staging areas for clients, talent, or bridal parties.
Dressing/Green Rooms – Available upon request for wedding parties, speakers, or performers.
Catering Prep Area – Designated back-of-house space for caterers to operate seamlessly.
Accessible Facilities – Full ADA access throughout public and private event spaces.
Kid Friendly Events: Yes
Handicap Accessible: Yes

Amenities

A/V Equipment
Bridal Suite/Changing Rooms Onsite
Street Parking
Valet Parking
Wifi
Ample Parking Onsite

Venue Features

Standout venue features:: Oceanfront Location – Unparalleled setting perched above the Pacific in La Jolla, offering sweeping coastal views.
Architectural Design – Striking modern spaces designed by Selldorf Architects that merge art, light, and landscape.
Contemporary Art Galleries – Access to world-class exhibitions that create a sophisticated, inspiring backdrop.
Flexible Event Spaces – From expansive terraces and oceanview rooms to intimate galleries, the venue adapts to a range of experiences.
Distinctive Sense of Place – Situated in La Jolla’s cultural and natural hub, steps from beaches, cliffs, and village charm.
Prestige & Exclusivity – Hosting an event in an internationally recognized museum elevates the occasion beyond a standard venue.
Community & Creativity – A setting that reflects values of innovation, inclusivity, and connection through contemporary art.

Awards & Notables

Awards, recognitions, or noteworthy achievements associated with the venue.

Iconic Artworks & Exhibitions at MCASD

Andy Warhol – MCASD has exhibited major works from Warhol’s career, reinforcing its reputation as a museum that brings globally recognized artists to San Diego.
Ellsworth Kelly – Known for his bold use of color and shape, Kelly’s work is part of MCASD’s celebrated modern and contemporary holdings.
Donald Judd & Minimalist Masters – MCASD is recognized for its strengths in minimalism, including significant works by Judd and his contemporaries.
Robert Irwin – A defining figure of the Light and Space movement, Irwin’s work has been deeply connected to the museum, including his site-specific installations.
John Baldessari – The museum has long showcased works by Baldessari, one of Southern California’s most influential conceptual artists.

MCASD’s collection spans more than 5,600 works, with particular depth in minimalism, pop art, conceptual art, and California Light & Space — making it one of the most important contemporary art museums on the West Coast.

Food Restaurants, Cafes, Bars, Lounges

This section provides insights into our diverse culinary and social offerings.

The Kitchen at MCASD

A full-service, onsite restaurant located within the museum
Features seasonal menus inspired by California’s coastal cuisine, highlighting fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Known for its light, modern dishes and oceanview dining experience.
Offers catering support for private events hosted at the museum.
Operated in partnership with hospitality professionals who emphasize sustainability and creativity.