Burnham Marston House

Burnham-Marston House Visiting Hours, Tickets, and San Diego Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled on the edge of Balboa Park, the Burnham-Marston House and Marston House Museum & Gardens are among San Diego’s most cherished historic landmarks. These estates offer visitors an immersive experience of early 20th-century California architecture, civic history, and landscape design. Originally built for George W. Marston—a key figure in San Diego’s urban development—the properties reflect the city’s commitment to preservation and cultural heritage. This guide provides comprehensive information on visiting hours, ticketing, tours, accessibility, and nearby attractions, as well as detailed historical and architectural context to help you make the most of your visit.

For authoritative details, refer to the SOHO San Diego website and City of San Diego’s Marston House page.

History of the Marston House
Origins and Construction
Architectural Significance
The Marston Family Legacy
The Formal Gardens
The Burnham-Marston House: Architectural and Cultural Significance
Design Origins and Style
The Hebbard & Gill Legacy
Landscape and Site Planning
Interior Craftsmanship and Innovations
Preservation and Adaptive Reuse
Visitor Information
Location and Directions
Visiting Hours and Ticket Prices
Accessibility
Guided Tours and Booking
Photography Policy
Parking and Transportation
House and Grounds
Architectural Features
Gardens and Outdoor Spaces
Museum Exhibits and Gift Shop
Events and Special Programs
Family and Group Visits
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
Visuals and Interactive Elements
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion & Call to Action

History of the Marston House

Origins and Construction

Commissioned in 1905 by George W. Marston and his wife Anna Gunn Marston, the Marston House was designed by architects Irving Gill and William Sterling Hebbard. George Marston was a prominent businessman, civic leader, and preservationist whose influence shaped early San Diego (City of San Diego). The house exemplifies the Arts and Crafts and Prairie architectural styles, emphasizing simplicity, natural materials, and harmony with its garden surroundings.

Architectural Significance

The Marston House is a quintessential example of the California Craftsman movement, featuring broad eaves, exposed rafters, and extensive use of wood and stone. Its open floor plan, large windows, and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions embody the principles of the Arts and Crafts era. Noteworthy innovations include reinforced concrete construction for enhanced durability (SOHO San Diego).

The Marston Family Legacy

George Marston’s vision extended beyond his home. He played a pivotal role in the development of Balboa Park, preservation of Old Town San Diego, and the founding of the San Diego Historical Society. The Marston House became a hub for intellectual and civic gatherings, and the family’s stewardship preserved it as a pristine historic residence.

The Formal Gardens

In 1927, the Marstons added a formal garden to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. Designed in the Arts and Crafts spirit, the gardens feature roses, seasonal flowers, and manicured lawns, offering a tranquil space that complements the architectural design. These gardens remain a highlight for visitors (City of San Diego).

The Burnham-Marston House: Architectural and Cultural Significance

Design Origins and Style

Constructed in 1906, the Burnham-Marston House at 3565 Seventh Avenue is a superb example of early 20th-century residential architecture in California. Designed by Irving Gill and William Sterling Hebbard, it blends Prairie and Arts and Crafts styles, characterized by horizontal lines, overhanging eaves, grouped windows, and harmonious integration with the landscape (NoeHill San Diego).

The Hebbard & Gill Legacy

Gill and Hebbard’s partnership (1897–1906) was instrumental in shaping the region’s architectural identity. The Burnham-Marston House forms part of a trio with the nearby George White Marston House (1904) and Arthur Marston House (1909), each showcasing Gill’s modernist approach and attention to simplicity and material honesty (NoeHill; San Diego Museum Council).

Landscape and Site Planning

Sited on five acres north of Balboa Park, the house is surrounded by mature trees, formal gardens, and canyon pathways. The landscape design blurs the boundaries between built and natural environments, reflecting Arts and Crafts ideals (Hidden San Diego).

Interior Craftsmanship and Innovations

The Burnham-Marston House features old-growth redwood paneling, period fixtures, and an open-flow layout maximizing natural light. Innovative features include an early solar water heating system, underscoring the Marston family’s forward-thinking values (San Diego Blog).

Preservation and Adaptive Reuse

Restoration efforts have maintained the home’s historic integrity. Today, the Burnham-Marston House serves as a venue for private events, while the adjacent Marston House Museum is open to public tours and programs (Waymarking; San Diego Museum Council).

Visitor Information

Location and Directions

Address for Marston House Museum & Gardens: 3525 Seventh Avenue, San Diego, CA 92103 (SOHO San Diego)
Burnham-Marston House: 3565 Seventh Avenue, San Diego, CA 92103
Easily accessible by car or public transit. Parking is limited, especially on weekends; public transportation is recommended.

Visiting Hours and Ticket Prices

Marston House Museum: Friday–Sunday, 10:00 am–4:00 pm, year-round (closed major holidays).
Burnham-Marston House: Generally open for private events; public access is via specialty tours.
Admission (as of June 2025):
- Adults: $20
- Seniors (65+), Students, Active Duty Military: $15
- Children (6–12): $7; Children 5 and under: Free
- SOHO members: Free
Tickets available onsite at the museum shop or online for specialty and group tours (SOHO San Diego).

Accessibility

The Marston House’s first floor and most gardens are wheelchair accessible. Some areas may have uneven paths; call ahead for specific needs (SOHO San Diego).

Guided Tours and Booking

Docent-led tours: 40–45 minutes, hourly on open days, included with admission.
Specialty and private tours: Available by reservation (Architectural, Garden, VIP, and Group Tours) (SOHO San Diego).

Photography Policy

Non-flash photography is permitted for personal use. Professional photography requires a permit (SOHO San Diego).

Parking and Transportation

Street parking is available but limited. Consider public transit or rideshare options. Balboa Park parking lots are within walking distance (whichmuseum.com).

House and Grounds

Architectural Features

The Marston House showcases Arts and Crafts principles: handcrafted woodwork, open-plan rooms, expansive windows, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow. Preservation efforts by SOHO have retained the home’s original integrity (thecraftsmanbungalow.com).

Gardens and Outdoor Spaces

Five acres of landscaped gardens, designed from 1905 through the late 1920s, are open to visitors for picnics, photography, and quiet reflection. The former carriage house now serves as the museum shop and tour meeting point (Hidden San Diego).

Museum Exhibits and Gift Shop

Inside, exhibits highlight the Marston family legacy, the history of their department store, and the city’s development. The shop offers books, souvenirs, and local crafts, supporting preservation work (Saving Places).

Events and Special Programs

SOHO hosts lectures, seasonal garden tours (March–October), historical reenactments, and private event rentals. The museum is closed during the annual San Diego Pride Parade (mid-July). For current events, check the SOHO website.

Family and Group Visits

Discounted rates are available for children, students, military, and seniors. School and group tours can be reserved and tailored to curriculum needs (SOHO San Diego).

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

Combine your visit with Balboa Park’s museums, San Diego Zoo, or the Spanish Village Art Center. Nearby neighborhoods offer diverse dining options. Visit during spring or early summer for blooming gardens and mild weather (La Jolla Mom; Lonely Planet).

Visuals and Interactive Elements

Explore high-quality images, interactive maps, and virtual tours on the SOHO San Diego website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Marston House visiting hours?
A: Friday–Sunday, 10:00 am–4:00 pm, year-round except major holidays.

Q: How can I purchase Marston House tickets?
A: Onsite at the museum shop or online for specialty and group tours.

Q: Is the Marston House wheelchair accessible?
A: The first floor is accessible; gardens have some uneven paths.

Q: Where can I park when visiting?
A: Street parking is available but limited; public transit is recommended.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, standard and specialty tours are offered and can be reserved online.

Q: Can I host private events at the Burnham-Marston House?
A: Yes, contact the museum for booking details.

Conclusion & Call to Action

The Burnham-Marston House and Marston House Museum & Gardens are essential destinations for anyone interested in San Diego’s civic, architectural, and cultural history. Through expertly guided tours, beautifully preserved interiors, and tranquil gardens, visitors gain a deep appreciation for the city’s rich heritage and the Marston family’s enduring legacy.

Plan your visit today by checking the latest hours and ticketing information on the SOHO Marston House website. For enhanced experiences, download the Audiala app, follow SOHO on social media, and explore related articles on San Diego historical sites.