Press releases for arts and entertainment events and programs should be typed, double-spaced, with basic information about the event, performance dates and times, location, ticket prices and a public telephone number. Send notices two to three weeks before the event to Preview, 207 E. Pennsylvania Ave., Escondido, 92025, or via e-mail to preview@nctimes.com. Or fax items to (760) 745-3769.

DANCE

American Ballet Theatre: "Giselle" ---- In its only regional appearance, the acclaimed ballet company presents Jean Coralli's interpretation of the Perrot/Petipa original about a sickly orphan girl who dies of a broken heart and becomes a Wili spirit; 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday; 2 p.m. Nov. 7 and Nov. 8; Orange County Performing Arts Center, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa; $17-$115; 714-556-2787.

Dance Studio Hour ---- MiraCosta College dance students present an evening of mixed work, including ballet, jazz, modern, tap, ballroom, commercial dance forms; 7:30 p.m. Nov. 5; Room 204, MiraCosta College's San Elijo campus, 3333 Manchester Ave., Cardiff; free; 760-795-6815.

"Giselle" ---- City Ballet presents the company premiere of Elizabeth Wistrich's full-length adaptation of Petipa's Russian ballet about a peasant girl who protects her love from a group of vengeful spirits, with costumes and scenery from Sacramento Ballet; 8 p.m. Nov. 6 and Nov. 7; 2 p.m. Nov. 8; Spreckels Theatre, 121 Broadway, San Diego; $29-$59; 858-272-8663 or cityballet.org.

"Michael Flatley's Lord of the Dance" ---- Irish dance spectacular tells a story of romance and Irish history through contemporary step-dancing; 8 p.m.Nov. 11; California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido; $42-$57; 800-988-4253 or artcenter.org.

"So You Think You Can Dance" Tour 2009 ---- Featured performers from the competitive dance television show are Brandon, Janette, Jason, Jeanine, Kayla, Kupono, Melissa, Randi, Ade and Evan; 7:30 p.m. Nov. 12; San Diego Sports Arena, 3500 Sports Arena Blvd., San Diego; $38.50-$56; 619-220-8497 or sandiegoarena.com.

"Sexual Selection" ---- UC San Diego Theatre and Dance presents Kim Rubinstein and Yolande Snaith's original dance theater piece based on Shakespeare's "Love's Labour's Lost" and selections from Charles Darwin's "The Descent of Man"; preview, 7 p.m. Nov. 16; regular shows, 8 p.m. Nov. 17-21; Mandell Weiss Forum Theatre, UC San Diego, La Jolla; $20, general; $15, seniors; $10, UCSD students with ID; 858-534-4574 or theatre.ucsd.edu/season.

"Shapes and Reflections" ---- MiraCosta College presents a program of varied dance works in ballet, jazz, modern, tap, hip hop, ballroom, world and other forms; 7:30 p.m. Dec. 4 and 5; 2 p.m. Dec. 5 and 6; MiraCosta College, 1 Barnard Drive, Oceanside; $12, general; $10, seniors; $8, students; 760-795-6815.

Great Russian Nutcracker ---- The Moscow Ballet presents its touring production of the famed Russian holiday ballet; 4 and 8 p.m. Dec. 26; Copley Symphony Hall, 750 B St., San Diego; 800-745-3000.

"The Nutcracker" ---- San Diego Ballet presents its annual production of the holiday ballet; 7:30 p.m. Dec. 4; 2:30 p.m. Dec. 5; East County Performing Arts Center, Main Street, El Cajon; also, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 17 and 2:30 p.m. Dec. 18 at the Mandeville Center, UC San Diego, La Jolla; $20-$50; 619-294-7311.

DANCE CLASSES

Adult women's tap class ---- Nancy Cottrell hosts a tap-dancing class for women over 35; 7 to 8:30 p.m. Thursdays; Dance Room, San Marcos Community Center, 3 Civic Center Drive, San Marcos; 760-749-4538.

Arthur Murray Dance Studio ---- Daily private lessons and group lessons on Nov. 11 and Nov. 5 nights in salsa, swing, fox trot, waltz, cha-cha, hustle, rumba, tango, mambo, wedding and ballroom dances; 330 W. Felicita Ave., Escondido; 760-747-0684 or www.dancestudioescondido.com.

Ballet, jazz and hip-hop classes ---- Lisette's Dance Studio of Escondido offers lessons for pre-professional dancers as well as an annual "Nutcracker" production; Lisette's Dance, California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido; 760-839-1001.

Ballroom dance classes ---- MiraCosta College offers courses in basic ballroom dancing, including fox trot, rumba, swing, cha-cha, mambo, tango, samba, merengue and waltz; Room 204, MiraCosta College's San Elijo xampus, 3333 Manchester Ave., Cardiff; $56; 760-795-6820.

Ballroom and Latin dance classes ---- Instructor Dan Gibbons presents Tuesday night dance programs, beginners are welcome; ballroom dances from 7-8 p.m. Tuesdays; Latin and nightclub dances, 8 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays; Studio 4, California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido; $10 drop-in or $8 per class by the month; seniors are $8 drop-in and $5 per class by month; 858-248-0593.

Ballroom Fever Fridays ---- Mary Pinizzotto presents ballroom, Latin, tango and salsa lessons; 8:15 p.m. to midnight Fridays; Dance North County, 535 Encinitas Blvd., Encinitas; $12; 760-809-6279.

Belly dance classes ---- Newly relocated from Oceanside, this studio offers Arabian-style belly dancing classes as well as classes in flamenco, salsa, samba, ballroom, Polynesian, yoga, tribal fusion and Latin mix; Art/Dance Academy, 1850 Hacienda Drive, #17, Vista; 760-757-4470.

Belly dance/yoga classes ---- Mary Griffith fuses the two disciplines in classes for adults; 7 to 8:15 p.m. Thursdays; Yoga Studio Carlsbad, 3138-J Roosevelt St., Carlsbad; 760-434-3469.

Carlsbad Dance Centre dance classes ---- Classes in tap, jazz, ballet and hip-hop for ages 18 months to adults are offered daily; Carlsbad Dance Centre, 2808 Roosevelt St., Carlsbad; 760-434-5182.

Creative dance and movement ---- No dance experience or partner is necessary, just come to enjoy new movement landscapes; 8:30 to 10 a.m. Tuesdays and Fridays; Dance North County, 535 Encinitas Blvd., Encinitas; $10; 760-809-6279.

English country dancing ---- San Diego English Country Dance hosts weekly social dances re-creating the classic dances of the 18th and 19th centuries; 6 to 9 p.m. Sundays; lessons included; Jean Hart Academy of Dance, Oak Knoll Plaza, 12227 Poway Road, Poway; $8, adults; children under 18 are $2 with paid adult; 858-486-9160 or www.sdecd.org.

Golden Connections Company ---- Senior women dancers are invited for ballet, modern and improvisational dance classes and to join the company; noon to 1:30 p.m. Tuesdays-Thursdays; California Center for the Arts, Escondido, Studio IV, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido; $6 per class; 760-233-0848.

Hip-hop dance classes ---- Hip-hop dance classes for ages 5 to adults; Dance FX, 1876 El Norte Parkway, Escondido; 760-747-9012.

Hula/Tahitian dance classes ---- Kumu Kahne teaches island dances; lessons taught at North County Dance, 535 Encinitas Blvd., Suite 100, Encinitas, and at Wildwood Community Center, East Vista Way at Escondido Avenue, Vista; $35 for four sessions; 760-630-8369.

Hustle San Diego Club ---- Hustle dance party with lessons for beginners; 7 p.m. on the second Saturdays of the month; Dance North County of San Diego, 535 Encinitas Blvd., Suite 100, Encinitas; $5-$7; 760-942-6362 or www.hustlesd.org.

Jazz dance ---- A jazz dance class for dancers ages 10 and up; 1 p.m. Saturdays; Performing Arts Workshop, 1105 Second St., Encinitas; call for prices; 760-753-2671.

Mambo Nights ---- Pasquale Del Mar/Finley Lounge has launched Tuesday-night mambo dance nights, where Michael John Saltus teaches lessons in salsa, bachata and cha-cha, and students can dance to live music; 8 p.m. Tuesdays; 3790 Via de la Valle, #301, Del Mar; 858-847-0490.

Rueda de Casino dance classes ---- Cuban-style salsa dancing; 6 p.m. Sundays; Dance North County, 535 Encinitas Blvd., Encinitas; $10; ruedasandiego.com or 760-436-7070.

Salsa dancing ---- Patricia Rincon Dance Collective hosts salsa classes for beginners and intermediate dancers two nights a week; Tony and Maria Caligagan teach at 8 p.m. Fridays (for beginners, 9 p.m. for intermediate dancers); Performing Arts Workshop, 1105 Second St., Encinitas; call for prices; 760-632-5340.

San Diego Swing Dance Club ---- Meets for dances at 7 p.m. Fridays; 3 p.m. Sundays; free swing dance lessons offered daily; Naval Training Center, Point Loma; call for prices; 619-231-0606.

Seniors line-dance classes ---- Oceanside Senior Center hosts drop-in beginning and intermediate lessons every Nov. 6; beginners, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; intermediate, 1:15 to 3 p.m.; Oceanside Senior Center, 455 Country Club Lane, Oceanside; $3 per class; 760-435-5250.

Social dance party ---- USA Dance hosts a monthly, all-ages, all-levels dance party with lessons included (ballroom, Latin, swing, salsa and other styles); 7-11 p.m. on the first Saturdays of the month (lesson begins at 7); Dance North County, 535 Encinitas Blvd., Suite 100, Encinitas; $7; 760-525-5124.

Square dance classes ---- Sandpipers Square Dance Club in Encinitas is offering beginners lessons in square dancing at 7 p.m. Thursdays; Encinitas Recreation Center, 1140 Oakcrest Park Drive, Encinitas; $48 for Encinitas residents; $58 for non-residents; 760-436-7718.

Swing & Ballroom dance party ---- Mary Manzella and the North County Swing & Ballroom Dance Club host a dance party with free two-step lessons included; 7 to 11 p.m. the third Saturdays of the month (lesson begins at 7); Dance North County, 535 Encinitas Blvd., Suite 100, Encinitas; $12; 619-229-0141.

Tango classes ---- Performing Arts Workshop will present a tango immersion class that includes a 20-minute open dance session; 8 p.m. Thursdays, Jan. 22-Feb. 26; Performing Arts Workshop, 1105 Second St., Encinitas; $15 per week or $80 for the series; 760-632-5340.

TGIF Dances --- Escondido Elks Lodge invites Elks and guests to twice-monthly line dancing parties to live music, held on the first and third Fridays of each month; 5 to 10 p.m.; Escondido Elks Lodge, 2430 S. Escondido Blvd., Escondido; $10 at door (includes lessons); 760-745-1687.

West African dance class ---- 3 to 4:30 p.m. Saturdays; Encinitas Community Center, 1140 Oakcrest Park Drive, Encinitas; $15-$25; 760-942-9927.

Youth ballet classes ---- Encinitas Community Center presents weekly youth ballet classes on Mondays for ages 10-13 and for ages 14 and up on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays; 760-943-2260.

GALLERIES

Editor's note: Because gallery exhibits and locations change regularly, listings will be removed if a gallery does not send in a new exhibit listing at least every two months.

Aaron Chang Gallery ---- The gallery showcases the photographs of Aaron Chang, whose work has been feaured on more than 100 sports, travel, rock and fashion magazine covers; hours, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; 124 E. Cliff St., Solana Beach; aaronchanggallery.com.

The Andrews Gallery ---- "The Language of Abstraction," an exhibit of works by Ron Tomlinson, is on display; call for hours; 1002 N. Coast Highway 101, Encinitas; 760-230-2680.

Art in the Alley ---- Galleries in Oceanside's Artist Alley host an open house and arts program for the public from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the fourth Nov. 5 of each month; 212C N. Coast Highway, Oceanside; 760-583-4117.

Art in the Heart of Rancho Bernardo Gallery ---- The Rancho Bernardo branch of UBS Financial Services celebrates the opening of its new gallery space with an exhibit of work by local artists; 17140 Bernardo Center Drive, Suite 350, Rancho Bernardo; 858-521-7082.

The Art of Framing ---- "Transports of Form," an exhibit of artwork by Bret J. Barrett, is on display; 3333 Adams Ave., San Diego; 619-563-9770.

"Art From the Heart" Exhibition ---- North County Oncology Medical Clinic hosts an exhibit of 89 works by 29 artists from the San Dieguito Art Guild, through Jan. 11; art is on display during clinic hours; 3617 Vista Way, Oceanside; 760-942-3636.

Athenaeum Music & Arts Library ---- "Stephen Curry: Next to Nothing" and "K.V. Tomney: Keeping in Form" run Nov. 14-Dec. 31; "Artists Books and Other Works" and "Wendell Kling: A Piece of the Moon World" run through Nov. 7; hours, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays, and until 8:30 p.m. Wednesdays; 1008 Wall St., La Jolla; 858-454-5872.

Bead Society Jewelry Show & Sale ---- The Bead Society of San Diego County hosts its annual Artisan Jewelry Show & Sale Nov. 19-29 in Spanish Village Art Center. Beadwork, lampwork, polymer clay, metal clay, fiber and micro-macrame will be offered for sale; Spanish Village Art Center, Balboa Park, San Diego; 858-566-1654.

Boehm Gallery ---- "Terra Incognita," an exhibit of artwork by Nikko Mueller, Jason Adkins, Adam Belt and John Cline, runs through Nov. 17; gallery hours, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; Palomar College, 1140 W. Mission Road, San Marcos; 760-744-1150, ext. 2304.

Brandon Gallery ---- Artist Dean Karr creates new art pieces for the gallery's artists bay from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the second Nov. 5 of each month; hours, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays; 105 N. Main Ave., Fallbrook; 760-723-1330.

Cannon Art Gallery ---- "Teapots: Object to Subject," an exhibit of fanciful, artist-made teapots from the "2004 Survey of Contemporary American Teapots" in St. Louis, as well as more than two dozen teapots by local artists, runs Nov. 22 through Jan. 31; gallery hours, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays; 1 to 5 p.m. Sundays; Carlsbad City Library, 1775 Dove Lane, Carlsbad; 760-602-2021.

Carlsbad-Oceanside Art League Gallery ---- An exhibit of watercolors by Lynne Crealock runs Nov. 11 through Dec. 6; artist's reception, 4 to 6 p.m. Nov. 15; hours, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays-Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays; Carlsbad Village Faire, 300 Carlsbad Village Drive, Suite 101, Carlsbad; 760-434-8497.

Cedros Gallery Nights ---- Downtown design district hosts late-night gallery openings and events from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on the third Nov. 5 of each month; Cedros Avenue, Solana Beach; free; 858-724-7204.

Cohen Glass Ranch show and sale ---- Glass-blowers Garry Cohen and Cherrie La Porte Cohen open their art studio/gallery for their 13th annual semi-annual Thanksgiving weekend show and sale and offer glass-blowing demonstrations; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 27-29; 20307 Beech Lane, Escondido; (760) 745-7020 or garrycohenstudio.com.

Cosmopolitan Fine Arts Gallery --- "Objects of Desire" runs through Nov. 30; gallery hours, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays-Thursdays; 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 7932 Girard Ave., La Jolla; 858-456-9506.

David W. May American Indian Collection & Gallery ---- "Katsina: Commodified and Appropriated Images of Hopi Supernaturals," an exhibit of 30 carved kachina figures representing Hopi Indian katsinam, runs through May; hours, 1 to 3 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays; Serra Hall, Room 214, University of San Diego, Acala Drive, San Diego; 619-260-4238.

Distinction Gallery ---- "Striptease," pin-up and burlesque-inspired art by Susan Heidi, Brian Viveros, Scott Rohlfs, Angelique Houtkamp, N.C. Winters, Molly Crabapple and Saratoga Sake, is now on display; "Sub 1K: California Style" runs Dec. 12 through Feb. 6; artists' reception, 5 to 10 p.m. Dec. 12; hours, noon to 5 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays or by appointment; 317 E. Grand Ave., Escondido; 760-781-5779.

EC Gallery ---- The gallery presents its third annual "Miniature Painting Show" Nov. 6 through Nov. 8; more than 100 paintings by 13 artists will be priced from $400; EC Gallery, Seaport Village, Harbor Drive, San Diego; 800-599-7111.

Encinitas Civic Center Art Gallery ---- An exhibit of paintings by Molly Lipsher, raku pottery by Alex Long and digital art by Tra-digital is on display through Nov. 30; artists' reception, 5 p.m. Nov. 18; also on exhibit in November is Mary Pickford memorabilia in association with the Mary Pickford Silent Film Festival running Nov. 6-8; hours, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays and every other Nov. 6; 505 S. Vulcan St., Encinitas; (760) 633-2600.

Escondido Municipal Gallery ---- "Nurture vs. Nature" and "The Nature of Art" run through Nov. 6; "Glass and Metal," running Nov. 13 to Dec. 4, will include a wood furniture exhibit, glass work by Bill Casper, and additional pieces by Renee Richetts, Lisa Bebi and Joan Irving; hours, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays, till 5 p.m. Tuesdays; Escondido Municipal Gallery, 262 E. Grand Ave., Escondido; 760-480-4101.

Fallbrook Art Center ---- The Fallbrook Art Association's Judged Membership Show opens Nov. 6 and runs through Nov. 15; the fourth annual "Art of the Holiday" exhibit opens Nov. 27 and runs through Dec. 23; the gallery will be closed Dec. 24 through Jan. 3; gallery hours, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays; noon to 3 p.m. Sundays; 103 S. Main St., Fallbrook; some exhibits require an admission fee; 760-728-1414.

Friends of Fire Mountain Fine Art Show and Sale ---- Fundraising art show for the San Diego Spay/Neuter Action Project will feature paintings, wood carvings, ceramics, jewelry, silk scarves, encaustics, purses, homemade cards and multimedia collage works; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 7; 2305 Fire Mountain Drive, Oceanside.

Front Porch Gallery ---- "Turn, Turn, Turn: A Season of Senior Art" runs through Nov. 8; hours, noon to 6 p.m. Wednesdays-Fridays; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; 2903 Carlsbad Blvd., Carlsbad; 760-795-6120.

Gallery 204 ---- An exhibit of miniatures will be on display in November, along with an auction of artwork by Cleda-Marie Simmons from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Nov. 13; the winners of the annual photography contest will be exhibited in December; Vista Art Foundation operates this gallery to exhibit work by local artists; hours, noon-6 p.m. Wednesdays-Sundays; 204 Main St., Vista; 760-305-8278.

Gotthelf Gallery ---- A retrospective exhibit of paintings and drawings from 1974 to 2008 by San Diego artist Manny Farber, who died last year at age 91, will be exhibited in cooperation with Quint Gallery Dec. 13 through Feb. 24; gallery hours, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays-Thursdays; San Diego Center for Jewish Culture, Lawrence Family Jewish Community Center, 4126 Executive Drive, La Jolla; 858-352-1140.

Gwendolyn Scheers Art Show ----- The Escondido contemporary artist will exhibit her paintings at Vinz Wine Bar over two weekends, beginning at 6 p.m. Nov. 6, from 1 to 4 p.m. Nov. 7; at 6 p.m. Nov. 13, and at 5 p.m. Nov. 14; 201 E. Grand Ave., Escondido; 760-743-8466.

InnerSpace Gallery ---- "Art of Nature" runs through Nov. 6; "Refraction," Nov. 13-Dec. 4; "Multiplicity," Dec. 11-Jan. 4; free; hours, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays; in the Escondido Municipal Gallery, 262 E. Grand Ave., Escondido; 760-480-4101.

Ivanffy-Uhler Gallery ----This gallery exhibits contemporary paintings, sculpture, drawings and original prints by local and international artists; hours, noonish to dusk Tuesdays-Thursdays; 11 a.m. to dusk Friday-Sundays; 565 Grand Ave., Carlsbad; 760-730-9166.

Japanese Brush Painting Exhibition ---- Washu-Kai art group will host its 34th annual exhibition of Japanese brush paintings, known as sumi-e paintings, as well as wearable fashions by members of Washu-Kai. Also featured will be ohana floral arrangements, koto music and other Japanese handicraft displays; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 29 (fashion show at 12:15 p.m.); Casa del Prado, Room 101, Balboa Park, San Diego; free; 619-239-0512.

JC Gallery & Studio ---- This new gallery showcases the work of local artists; call for hours; 212-C N. Coast Highway, Oceanside; 760-757-5524.

Joseph Bellows Gallery ---- "Full Moon: The Apollo Missions," an exhibit of images from Michael Light's book "Full Moon" runs through Dec. 5; hours, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays; 7661 Girard Ave., La Jolla; (858) 456-5620.

Cal State San Marcos Kellogg Library Gallery ---- "Earth from Space," a set of 20 satellite images from the Smithsonian Institute depicting dust storms, wildfires, volcanic eruptions and hurricanes seen from space, is on display through Dec. 19; gallery hours, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays; 1 to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; 333 S. Twin Oaks Valley Road, San Marcos; (760) 750-4378.

Kruglak Gallery ---- "Back and Forward," an exhibit of artwork by MiraCosta alumni and faculty, runs Nov. 17 through Dec. 10; artists' reception, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 19; exhibit hours, 2:30 to 7:30 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays; 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays; MiraCosta College, 1 Barnard Drive, Oceanside; (760) 795-6697.

La Jolla Library ---- "A one woman show - wave, song and dance," featuring works by Katherine Shyu Keeling, runs through Nov. 30; artist's reception, 2 to 5 p.m. Nov. 7; call for library hours; 7555 Draper Ave., La Jolla; 858-552-1657.

Madison Gallery ---- "Momentum," paintings by James Verbicky, is on display; 1020 Prospect Drive, Suite 130, La Jolla; 858-459-0836.

The Main Frame Shoppe and Art Gallery ---- A solo exhibit by artist Corrine Geras is on display through Nov. 30; artist's reception and fall open house, 4 to 7 p.m. Nov. 21; call for hours; 430 N. Andreason Drive, Escondido; 760-432-8995.

Morrison Hotel Gallery-Del Mar ---- This new gallery showcases the work of rock 'n' roll photographers from the 1960s to today; Morrison Hotel Gallery-Del Mar, Flower Hill Promenade, 2670 Via de la Valle, Second Floor, Del Mar; 858-350-3777.

"Muerte de Todos: Ofrenda de Participacion" ---- California Center for the Arts, Escondido, presents its 15th annual Day of the Dead celebration and interactive exhibit, featuring a large outdoor altar created by Mexico City artist Eloy Tarcisio and a rock garden where the public is invited to create their own altars to memorialize loved ones; exhibit will continue through Nov. 30; California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido; 760-839-4178.

Ocean Art Gallery ---- This gallery showcases the work of local surf and sea painter Wade Koniakowsky; hours, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays-Sundays; 346 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach; 858-259-8920.

Oceanside Art Gallery ---- "The Gift of Art," an exhibit of two- and three-dimensional works for holiday gifting, runs Nov. 10 through Dec. 19; artists' reception, 6 to 8 p.m. Nov. 13; hours, noon to 4 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays; 602 Mission Ave., Oceanside; 760-845-9017 or 760-845-0644.

Off Track Art Gallery ---- The San Dieguito Arts Guild will present an exhibit of work by Dave Ombrello, Patricia Watkins, Joan Gine and B.J. Simon beginning Nov. 13; artists' reception, 5 to 8 p.m. Nov. 13; gallery hours, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; 500 Second St. (Second and D Streets), Encinitas; 760-942-3636.

Olde Ramona Hotel Gallery ---- An exhibit by Sally Quinette and Mandy Lindquist is on display in November and December; The gallery also hosts a group show, "Festivus for the Rest of Us," through December; artists' reception, 3 to 5 p.m. Nov. 14; gallery hours, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m Wednesdays-Saturdays; 845 Main St., Ramona; (760) 789-3682.

OPT Underground Gallery ---- "Inside Out: Youth Photography Exhibit" opens Nov. 7; artists' reception, 5 to 8 p.m. Nov. 7; hours, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays; noon to 5 p.m. Sundays; Oceanside Photo & Telescope, 918 Mission Ave., Oceanside; (760) 722-3348.

Ordover Gallery ---- "Elizabeth Carmel: Tuscany," an exhibit of photographs by the Hasselblad Master Photographer Award winner, runs through Jan. 17; hours, 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesdays-Thursdays; noon to 5 p.m. Fridays and Sundays; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays; 410 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach; 858-720-1121.

Park Blvd. Artworks ---- "The Final Crossroads," a memorial exhibit of artwork by the late John DeMarco, is on display through Nov. 27; 4421 Park Blvd., San Diego; 619-692-0734.

Paul Ryker Exhibition ---- A new exhibit of plein-air and still life paintings by the local artists is on display; Vincent's on Grand, 113 W. Grand Ave., Escondido; 760-805-3223.

Perry L. Meyer Fine Art ---- Vintage Italian posters are on display through Nov. 7; hours, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesdays-Thursdays; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays; 2400 Kettner Blvd., Suite 251, San Diego; 619-358-9512.

PhotoArts Group Gallery ---- The North County photographers group is presenting "Summer Diary" in its new exhibit location through Jan. 23; Chiropractic Rehabilitation Wellness Center, 115 Main St., Vista; the group is also showing "Refraction," Nov. 13 through Dec. 4, at their permanent InnerSpace Gallery at the Escondido Municipal Gallery, 262 E. Grand Ave.; photoartsgroup.org or 760-726-9660.

Queen Califia's Magical Circle ---- Outdoor sculpture garden created by artist Niki de St. Phalle; open 8:30 a.m. to dusk Tuesdays-Sundays; Kit Carson Park, 3333 Bear Valley Parkway, Escondido; free; for docent tours, call 760-839-4331.

Quilted Treasures Quilt Show ---- The Fallbrook Quilt Guild will exhibit more than 200 quilts made by guild members and local artists. This year's show includes a Hoffman Challenge exhibit, a daily auction and a country store with vendors, demonstrations, opportunity drawings and food for sale; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 6; Fallbrook Presbyterian Church, 463 S. Stage Coach Lane, Fallbrook; $6, adults; $2 for children ages 3 to 12; organizers request no strollers; fallbrookquiltguild.com.

Rancho Buena Vista Adobe Gallery ---- "Celebration of Nature," an exhibit of nature-themed work by Carolyn Wolf-Russell and Karen Bushgens, is on display through December; the artists will be on hand to discuss their work during the adobe's Vista Holiday Home Tour, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 6; gallery hours, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesdays-Saturdays; 640 Alta Vista Drive, Vista; 760-639-6164.

Rancho Santa Fe Art Guild Gallery ---- "Serenity," an exhibit of work by more than 30 area artists, is now on display; hours, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays; 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays; Union Bank Building, 6004 Paseo Delicias, Rancho Santa Fe; (858) 759-3545.

Robert Ferguson Fine Art Gallery ---- The gallery showcases the work of the American impressionist Robert Ferguson; call for hours; 365 W. Second Ave., Escondido; www.fergusonart.com.

Salon Forte ---- "From the Oceans to the Mountains," watercolors by plein-air artist Margot "Wally" Wallace, is on display; hours, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays; 722 Genevieve, Solana Beach; 858-792-5209.

San Diego Potters Guild Fall Exhibit and Sale ----- Thousands of handmade pieces by guild members will be on exhibit and for sale; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 14 and 15; Spanish Village patio, Balboa Park, San Diego; free; sandiegopottersguild.org.

San Diego Sculpture Guild Exhibition ---- The Guild presents "Whimsy," an exhibit of bronze, wood, ceramic and other sculpture, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 7, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 8; Liberty Station Marketplace, 2445 Truxtun Road, Point Loma; 619-335-0221.

San Diego Watercolor Society Gallery ---- The society's "29th International Exhibition"is now on display; NTC Promenade, 2825 Dewey Road, Suite 105, Point Loma; 619-876-4550.

Santa Ysabel Art Gallery ---- "The Railroad," an exhibit of train-inspired paintings by artist Stan Goudey, runs through Nov. 22; gallery hours, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursdays-Mondays; 30352 Highway 78, Santa Ysabel; 760-765-1676.

Scott White Contemporary Art ---- "West Shore Drive" by Sebastian Blanck runs through Nov. 7; call for hours; 2400 Kettner Blvd., Loft 238, San Diego; 619-501-5689.

"Sculpture in the Garden": San Diego Botanic Garden, with the San Diego Fine Art Society, is displaying sculptural creations throughout the Encinitas garden through March. There are various sculptures scattered throughout the gardens at 230 Quail Gardens Drive. Admission is $12 for adults, $8 for seniors, active military and students, and $6 for children ages 3 to 12. Go to sdbgarden.org.

Second Nov. 7 ---- Downtown Escondido art galleries and museums host special receptions and extended hours on the second Saturdays of each month; Grand Avenue, Escondido; free; 760-745-8877.

Susan Street Fine Art Gallery ---- "Tender Rivers," artwork by Stephen Pentak and Bob Nugent, runs through Nov. 19; "Open Road," a new abstract series by painter Miguel Osuna, is now on display; hours, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; 415 S. Cedros Ave., Suite 160, Solana Beach; 858-793-4442.

Talmadge Art Show ---- More than 60 artisans will feature their handmade work (jewelry, wearable art, paintings, ceramics, textiles, purses and more) at the annual fine arts and crafts showcase; this year's show features a special show by 18 members of Clay Artists of San Diego; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 22; 2557 Third Ave., San Diego; free; 619-559-9082.

Thursdays on the Coast ---- Carlsbad Village Association presents a Thursday-night downtown arts event series, featuring live music, art receptions, demonstrations and displays, open house events and restaurant dining specials; 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. on the last Nov. 5 of each month (upcoming events are Nov. 27 and Dec. 31); Carlsbad Village; free; 760-434-2553 or www.thursdaysonthecoast.com.

Twin Oaks Gallery ---- The 2009 Juried Art Show is now on display; call for hours; 757 Twin Oaks Valley Road, #3, San Marcos; 760-703-3889.

2 Spoons Coffee House ---- "Watercolors," a solo exhibit by artist Sharman Slye, opens Nov. 7 and runs through the end of the month; artist's reception, 1:30 to 4 p.m. Nov. 7; gallery hours, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; 3829 Plaza Drive, Oceanside; 760-724-1220.

UCSD Art Gallery ---- UC San Diego and 5 Women Who Care will present an international exhibition, "Off the Beaten Path: Violence, Women and Art," through Dec. 12; hours, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays; Mandeville Center, UCSD, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla; 760-809-3702.

Valley Center Library Gallery ---- "A San Diego Artist Rediscovered," a retrospective exhibit of works by the late San Diego artist Richard Gabriel Chase, whose murals can be found in museums countywide, is now on display at the Valley Center Library; the exhibit features hundreds of paintings, sketches, drawings and work boards from the estate of Chase, who died in 2007 at age 88; Valley Center Library, 29200 Cole Grade Road; 760-749-2325.

Visions Art Quilt Gallery ---- This gallery exhibits handmade art quilts by members of the Quilt San Diego association; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays-Sundays; NTC Promenade, 2825 Dewey Road, Suite 100, Point Loma; 619-546-4872.

Wine Spot exhibition ---- New paintings by Sally Pierce and Steve Wilson will be on exhibit in the wine store and tasting room through Nov. 13; 2917 State St., Carlsbad; 760-434-9463.

MUSEUMS

Agua Hedionda Lagoon Discovery Center ---- "The Agua Hedionda Lagoon, Watersheds and Luiseno Indian Culture" includes information on the Indian peoples who lived here before European settlers arrived, and on the native landscaping around the center; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays and Fridays; noon to 4 p.m. Saturdays; 1580 Cannon Road, Carlsbad; free; 760-804-1969 or aguahedionda.org.

Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum ---- More than 50 acres displaying exhibits on early California life and equipment, including a farmhouse, barns, engines, tractors and trucks; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily; 2040 N. Santa Fe Ave., Vista; $3 adults; $2 children and seniors; 760-941-1791 or agsem.com.

Barona Cultural Center & Museum ---- Dedicated to preserving the history, artifacts and language of the Kumeyaay/Diegueno people, and the Barona Band of Mission Indians in particular; noon to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays; 1095 Barona Road, Lakeside; free; 619-443-7003, ext. 2, or baronamuseum.org.

Birch Aquarium at Scripps ---- "Whales: Voices in the Sea" and "Feeling the Heat: The Climate Challenge"; "There's Something About Seahorses" opens Nov. 14; tidepool tour 2:30 p.m. Oct. 17---- $12; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla; $11, general; $9, seniors; $8, college students with ID; $7.50, children 3 to 17 and UC San Diego students with ID; free, 2 and under; free three-hour parking; 858-534-3474 or aquarium.ucsd.edu.

California Center for the Arts, Escondido, Museum ---- "Quint: Three Decades of Contemporary Art" runs through Dec. 31; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays, 1 to 4 p.m. Sundays; 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido; $5, adults; $4, seniors and active military; $3, students with ID; children under 12 are free; 760-839-4120 or artcenter.org/museum.htm.

California Surf Museum ---- On display: "100 Years of Surfing in Southern California," featuring photos, stories and artifacts such as surfboards, trophies, bathing suits, leashes and surf wax; and the traveling exhibit "Sidewalk Surfers," displaying a historical look at the roots of skateboarding and its parallel to surfing; also on display is a collection of unique surfboards, movie posters, record albums, vintage beachwear and a vast assortment of photos. Significant surfing personalities from each decade are highlighted; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily; 312 Pier View Way, Oceanside; $3 adults, $1 seniors and students, free for children 12 and under; 760-721-6876 or surfmuseum.org.

Carlsbad Historical Society Museum ---- Interpretive historical displays, artifacts and self-guided tours; private tours with tea by reservation only; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; Magee Park, 258 Beech St., Carlsbad; free; 760-434-9189 or carlsbadhistoricalsociety.org.

Coronado Museum of Art and History ---- Museum exhibits photographs and artifacts detailing the history of the peninsula community; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; 1100 Orange Ave., Coronado; $4, adults 19-64; $3, active military and seniors; $2, youth 10-18; free, children 9 and under; 619-435-7242 or coronadohistory.org.

Encinitas Historical Society ---- City's original 1883 schoolhouse, the oldest building in Encinitas, houses exhibits, pictorial displays and archives telling of the city's past and its people and events; noon to 4 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; corner of F and Fourth streets, Encinitas; free; 760-942-9066 or encinitashistoricalsociety.com.

Escondido Children's Museum --- Three new exhibits are open: "Exploring Space From Earth," based on Palomar Observatory; and "The Fault Zone"; "The Science Shack" is open; "Second Nov. 7" family days every month; hours, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, noon to 4 p.m. Wednesdays and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays; Studio 1, California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 380 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido; $4, general; free, children under 1; $50 for a family for a year; military families half-off all admission prices; 760-233-7755 or escondidochildrensmuseum.org.

Escondido History Center ---- Historical exhibits, archives and buildings; 1 to 4 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays; Grape Day Park, 321 N. Broadway, Escondido; $3; $1, children; 760-743-8207 or escondidohistory.org.

Fallbrook Gem and Mineral Society Museum ---- Collection of gems, fossils, minerals and fluorescent minerals; 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays; 123 W. Alvarado St., Suite B, Fallbrook; free; 760-728-1130 or fgms.org.

Fallbrook Historical Museum ---- "Fallbrook in Miniature," handcrafted models of 12 historical Fallbrook buildings complete with functioning model railroad, a replica of the original train that served the Fallbrook area in the early 1900s; Pittenger House, country home of William Pittenger, Civil War hero and Medal of Honor winner; historical displays and research materials; 1 to 4 p.m. Thursdays and Sundays; South Hill Street at Rocky Crest Road, Fallbrook; free; 760-723-4125 or fallbrookhistoricalsociety.com.

Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum ---- The nation's only museum dedicated to Marine Corps aviation history features more than two dozen vintage and historically important planes, jet fighters and helicopters used by Marine pilots in combat from World Wars I and II through Operation Iraqi Freedom; exhibits feature stories of Marines' courage, sacrifice and achievement in war, along with artifacts, photos and displays; 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tuesdays-Sundays, except major holidays; Miramar Marine Corps Air Station, Miramar Road, 1.3 miles west of I-15, San Diego; free; 858-693-1723 or flyingleathernecks.org.

Gemological Institute of America Museum ---- The "Facets of GIA" exhibit, running through April, contains more than 150 items including gem crystals, gemstones, and jewelry. Admission to GIA's museum and gemological exhibits is through reserved tours only (24 hours notice required); contact the GIA for available dates; photo identification required for entrance to the GIA campus: 5345 Armada Drive, Carlsbad; free; 800-421-7250, ext. 4116, or guestservices@gia.edu.

Japanese Friendship Garden, San Diego ----The garden features a plaza, viewing deck, koi pond and tea pavilion; winter hours: 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday; Balboa Park, 2215 Pan American Road, San Diego; $4, general; $2.50, seniors, students and military with ID; children under 6 free; 619-232-2721 or niwa.org.

Julian Pioneer Museum ---- The newly expanded museum offers displays of artifacts from the Kumeyaay Indian, pioneer and Julian gold-rush eras; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; $2, $1 children 8-18; 2811 Washington St., Julian; 760-765-0227.

Joe Martin Foundation Museum of Miniature Craftsmanship ---- "The Paul Knapp Collection of Over 100 Model Internal Combustion Engines" is on exhibit. The museum features the work of outstanding craftsmen from around the world with emphasis on miniature projects. Exhibits include model steam, gas diesel automotive, aircraft and marine engines, detailed model aircraft, machine tools, clocks and miniature firearms. The museum's working machine shop always has a project in progress; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays except holidays; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. the first Nov. 7 of each month; 3235 Executive Ridge, Vista; free; 760-727-9492 or craftsmanshipmuseum.com.

Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park ----- The ranch hosts its annual old-fashioned Fall Fair from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 7, with a chili cookoff, arts and crafts market, children's fun zone and entertainment by the Adrenaline Bicycle Stunt Team; authentic Western-style rancho, barn and gardens filled with film memorabilia, antiques and Old West/Americana items once owned by Carrillo, who starred in a series of Western serials and films before his death in 1961; ranch is now registered as a California Historic Landmark; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays; tours offered 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays; noon and 2 p.m. Sundays; 6200 Flying LC Lane, Carlsbad; free; 760-476-1042.

Lux Art Institute ---- New York artist Susan Hauptman, who specializes in enigmatic, charcoal self-portraits, will be the artist in residence Nov. 12 through 21, and her work will remain on exhibit through Jan. 9; showcases the work of artists in residence, arts education and site-specific installations; 1 to 5 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays; 1550 S. El Camino Real, Encinitas; $10 for two visits; 760-436-6611 or luxartinstitute.org.

Maritime Museum of San Diego ---- "The Art of the Boat: Photographs From the Rosenfeld Collection" is open; permanent exhibits include the historical 19th-century tall ship the Star of India, the turn-of-the-century ferryboat Berkeley and the newly acquired 1968 submarine the USS Dolphin, which holds the record for the deepest submarine dive; 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily; 1492 N. Harbor Drive, San Diego; $14, adults; $11, juniors (13-17), seniors and active military; $8, children (6-12); free, children 5 and under; 619-234-9153 or sdmaritime.org.

The Marston House Museum & Gardens ---- This classic 1906 Arts and Crafts was designed by renowned local architects William Hebbard and Irving Gill. It sits on 5 acres with a formal English Romantic-style garden, period furnishings, pottery and an American Indian basketry collection; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays through Sundays; 3525 Seventh Ave., Balboa Park; $8, adults; $5, seniors (55 and over); $4, children ages 3 to 12; (619) 297-9327 or marstonhouse.org.

MCRD Command Museum ---- Exhibits trace the history of the Marine Corps Recruit Depot and the history of the Marines in the San Diego region; 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Wednesdays, and Fridays and Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Thursdays; Day Hall, Building 26, Marine Corps Recruit Depot (enter Gate 5), San Diego; free, although photo ID is required to enter the base and vehicles are subject to search; 619-524-8431 or mcrdmuseumhistoricalsociety.org.

Mingei International Museum, Escondido ---- "Rite and Ritual" runs through Oct. 16, 2010; the museum exhibits textiles and folk art from around the world; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays; 155 W. Grand Ave., Escondido; $3, adults; $2, seniors, students and active military with ID; children 5 and under are free; admission is free from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the first Nov. 5 and from 4 to 8 p.m. on the second Nov. 7; 760-735-3355 or www.mingei.org.

Mingei International Museum ---- "Transformed By Fire," a retrospective of June Schwarcz's enamel works, runs through March 21; "Fifty-Six Chinese Hatboxes" runs through March 21; "Fisch Out of Water," a collection of of life-size re-creations of jellyfish, runs through May 16; "Sonabai: Another Way of Seeing," an exhibit of sculpture by the late Indian woman who was kept imprisoned for 15 years by her husband and created a unique sculptural world around her instead, runs through Oct. 16, 2010; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays-Sundays; Balboa Park, 1439 El Prado, San Diego; $6, general; $3, military and students with ID and children 6 to 17; 619-239-0003 or mingei.org.

Mission San Diego de Alcala ---- The first of the California missions features self-guided tours and historical exhibits; docent-led tours by reservation only; 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. daily; 10818 San Diego Mission Road, San Diego; $3, general; $2, seniors and students; $1, children 12 and under; 619-281-8449 or missionsandiego.com.

Mission San Luis Rey ---- Historical mission features self-guided tours, displays and educational programs; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily; 4050 Mission Ave., Oceanside; $6 adults; $5 active duty military and seniors (65 and older); $4 students; $25 family rate; free, children 5 and under are free; 760-757-3651, ext. 115, or sanluisrey.org.

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, Downtown ---- An exhibit of sculptural installations by Tara Donovan is on display through Feb. 28; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursdays-Tuesdays; 11 a.m.-7 p.m. third Nov. 5 of each month; 1001 and 1100 Kettner Blvd., San Diego; $10 adults (26 and over), $5 seniors and military, free for 25 and under; free admission after 5 p.m. on the third Nov. 5 of each month; 858-454-3541 or mcasd.org.

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, La Jolla ---- "Automatic Cities: The Architectural Imaginary in Contemporary Art" and "Museums in Miniature: Works by Marcel Duchamp and Joseph Cornell run through Jan. 31; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursdays-Tuesdays; 11 a.m.-7 p.m. third Nov. 5 of each month; 700 Prospect St., La Jolla; $10 adults (26 and over), $5 seniors and military, free for 25 and under; free admission after 5 p.m. on the third Nov. 5 of each month; 858-454-3541 or mcasd.org.

Museum of Making Music ---- "Waves of Inspiration: The Legacy of Moog" runs through April 30; "ON: The Beginning of the Electric Sound Generation" runs through March; museum celebrates the innovations that changed the face of American popular music and music making from the 1890s to the present and features 500 vintage instruments, hundreds of audio and video examples and an interactive stage; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays-Sundays; 5790 Armada Drive, Carlsbad; $7, general; $5, students, seniors and active military; free, children 5 and under; 760-438-5996 or museumofmakingmusic.org.

Museum of Photographic Arts ---- Exhibits from the permanent collection and traveling shows; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays-Sundays; Casa de Balboa Building, Balboa Park, 1649 El Prado, San Diego; $6, adults; $4, seniors, students and military; free, children under 12 with an adult and on the second Tuesdays of each month; 619-238-7559 or mopa.org.

Museum of San Diego History ----Operated by the San Diego Historical Society 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; Casa de Balboa Building, Balboa Park, 1649 El Prado, Suite 3, San Diego; $5, general; $4, seniors and military; $2, students; free, children under 6; 619-232-6203 or sandiegohistory.org.

The New Americans Museum ---- Dedicated to documenting the contributions of immigrants; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesdays-Sundays; 2825 Dewey Road, Suite 102, NTC Promenade, Liberty Station, Point Loma; free; 619-255-8908 or newamericansmuseum.org.

The New Children's Museum ---- The museum provides dynamic, playful and hands-on exhibits and studios, along with art classes and other fun activities for kids and families; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursdays; noon to 4 p.m. Sundays; closed Wednesdays; $10 admission, $5 seniors and active-duty military with ID, children under 1 free; 200 W. Island Avenue, San Diego; 619-233-8792 and thinkplaycreate.org.

Oceanside Heritage Village Park and Museum ---- Historical Oceanside buildings and grounds on display; 1-4 p.m. Sundays; 220 Peyri Drive, Oceanside; 760-433-8297.

Oceanside Historical Society ---- Historical exhibits and archives; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays; 305 N. Nevada St., Oceanside; 760-722-4786 or oceansidehistoricalsociety.org.

Oceanside Museum of Art ---"John Zabrucky: Industrial Alchemy," a survey of more than 20 years of the artist's flat relief works, opens Nov. 15 and runs through March 28; artist's preview reception, 5 to 7 p.m. Nov. 14 ---- $10; "Art After Dark: The Zodiac Lounge," a benefit evening of food, wine, beer, arts and crafts, and live entertainment, will be held from 7 to 10 p.m. Nov. 20 ---- $15; "The Art of Les Perhacs, an exhibit of sculptures and drawings by the Fallbrook artist, is on exhibit through Jan. 8; Perhacs will discuss his work at 2 p.m. Dec. 12; "An American Dream," whimsical mixed-media work by Gregg Jabs, runs through Jan. 10; museum hours, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays; 1 to 4 p.m. Sundays; 704 Pier View Way, Oceanside; $8, regular admission, $5, seniors; free, students, military and their dependents; 760-435-3720 or oma-online.org.

Pacific Southwest Railway Museum ---- Dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of railroads as they existed in the Pacific Southwest; rides on antique trains offered Saturdays and Sundays; State Highway 94 and Forrest Gate Road, Campo; 619-478-9937 or sdrm.org.

Rancho Buena Vista Adobe ---- This 11-room adobe ranch house features turn-of-the-century antiques, landscaped gardens, art gallery and gift store; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesdays-Saturdays; docent-led tours, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesdays-Fridays and 10 a.m. Saturdays; 640 Alta Vista Drive, Vista; 760-639-6164.

Rancho Guajome Adobe ---- Docent-led tours of the restored historical 22-room adobe ranch house and its gardens, 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays unless raining; 2210 N. Santa Fe Ave., Vista; $3; 760-724-4082.

Reuben H. Fleet Science Center ---- "Motion Mania: Move Your Mind" runs through June 6; "So WATT" energy exhibit and "Aging for All Ages," an interactive exhibit on the aging process, are open; the IMAX Space Theater is showing "Amazon" through Dec. 31, "Wild California" through November, and "Under the Sea" through March; family-friendly activities at the Exploration Bar from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturdays; "Kid City" and "Origins in Space" are on exhibit; "Escape From Dino Island" motion simulator ride is open ($5); opens at 9:30 a.m. daily; closing times vary; Balboa Park, 1875 El Prado, San Diego; $10, general; $8.75 seniors and children 3-12; admission plus one IMAX film, $14.50, adults; $11.75, seniors and children 3 to 12; 619-238-1233 or rhfleet.org.

San Diego Air & Space Museum ---- Now on display, a Lockheed Vega 5B airplane used in the new film "Amelia," about aviatrix Amelia Earhart. The plane, the same model as one Earhart flew in the 1920s and early '30s, was used as a prop in the filming of the movie and was donated to the museum by Avalon Pictures; "To the Moon: Snoopy Soars with NASA," an exhibit that shows how Charles Schulz's beloved comic strip character was used to by NASA to market the Apollo moon exploration program in the 1960s, is now on display; "The Da Vinci Experience," a separate-ticket exhibit of 60 scale models, interactive devices, drawings, books and painting reproductions based on the scientific inventions, models and designs of Leonardo da Vinci, runs through Jan. 3 (exhibit entry is $24.75 for adults, $21.75 for seniors, $19.75 for students and $15.75 for youth ages 3 to 11); active-duty military and children 2 and under are free; "Second Saturdays" offer family activities each month at 12:30, 1:30 and 2:30 p.m.; also featured: a replica of a WWII German "flying wing," a reproduction of the WWI fighter the Sopwith Pup, the Apollo 9 command module, the world's only global positioning satellite on display and a model of the JPL Mars rover; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily; Balboa Park, 2001 Pan American Plaza, San Diego; $15, general; $12, seniors, students, retired military with ID; $6, ages 3-11; free, children 2 and under and active military with ID; (behind-the-scenes restoration tours are available for additional fee); $5-$8, simulator rides; 619-234-8291 or aerospacemuseum.org.

San Diego Archaeological Center ---- Exhibits detail the area's past through use of local artifacts; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays-Fridays and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays; 16666 San Pasqual Valley Road, San Pasqual Valley; free; 760-291-0370 or sandiegoarchaeology.org.

San Diego Automotive Museum ---- 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily; Balboa Park, 2080 Pan American Plaza, San Diego; $8, general; $6, seniors and military; $5 students with ID; $4, children 6 to 15; free, children under 6; 619-231-2886 or sdautomuseum.org.

San Diego Chinese Historical Museum ---- "The Many Faces of Cantonese Family Locks" is open; the museum collects, preserves and shares the Chinese-American experience and Chinese history, culture and art; 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays and noon to 4 p.m. Sundays; group tours available upon request; 404 Third Ave., San Diego; $2, adults; free, children 12 and under; 619-338-9888 or sdchm.org.

San Diego Hall of Champions ---- The museum documents the teams and individuals who have shaped San Diego's sports landscape, from prep stars to the numerous professional clubs that have called the area home; 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily; Balboa Park, 2131 Pan American Plaza, San Diego; $8, general; $6 seniors, military and students; $4, children 7-17; free, 6 and under; 619-234-2544 or sdhoc.com.

San Diego Model Railroad Museum ---- Permanent exhibits include five working model railroads, including HO-scale, N-scale, and Lionel and O-gauge trains; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; Balboa Park, 1649 El Prado, San Diego; $6, general; $5, seniors; $3, students with ID; $2.50, active military with ID; free, children under 15 with paid adult; 619-696-0199 or sdmodelrailroadm.com.

San Diego Museum of Art ---- "American Artists from the Russian Empire" runs Nov. 7 through Jan. 17; "Calder Jewelry," an exhibit of handmade jewelry by sculptor Alexander Calder, runs through Jan. 3; "Oceanic Art: A Celebration of Form" runs through January; the museum's permanent holdings include a collection of Italian Renaissance, Dutch and Spanish Old Masters, Asian art, South Asian paintings, as well as comprehensive examples of American art, 19th-century European paintings and 20th-century paintings and sculpture; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays; noon to 5 p.m. Sundays; Balboa Park, 1450 El Prado, San Diego; $10, general; $8, seniors and active military; $7, students with ID; $4, children 6 to 17; free, children 5 and under; 619-232-7931 or sdmart.org.

San Diego Museum of Man ---- "Treasures Uncovered," a behind-the-scenes look at how the museum's curators and preservations catalog, clean and restore ancient artifacts, has opened in the museum's Resource Center ($5 separate entry fee); the Children's Discovery Center features a hands-on, 1,350-square-foot interactive gallery that depicts life in ancient Egypt; 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily; Balboa Park, 1350 El Prado, San Diego; $10, adults; $7.50, seniors, students with ID and youth ages 13-17; $5, ages 3 to 12; free, children 2 and under; 619-239-2001 or museumofman.org.

San Diego Natural History Museum ---- "Darwin: Evolution/Revolution," an exhibit of Charles Darwin's manuscripts, notebooks, letters, artwork and personal objects that illustrate his landmark "On the Origin of Species" publication 150 years ago, opens Nov. 7 and runs through Feb. 28; "Mummies: Secrets of the Pharoahs" will open Dec. 1 in the 3D theater ("Dinosaurs Alive!" and "Ocean Oasis" are now showing); "Baja California" photography exhibit runs through Jan. 3; "Fossil Mysteries," the largest exhibit in the museum's history, is open; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (open until 8 p.m. Thursdays, except holidays); hours vary weekly, call to confirm; Balboa Park, 1788 El Prado, San Diego; $16, general; $14, seniors; $11, military, students and youth ages 13-17; $10, children ages 3 to 12; 619-232-3821 or sdnhm.org.

San Dieguito Heritage Museum ---- "Skate and Create," an exhibit about the region's contributions to skateboarding, is open; Family Day, the last Nov. 7 of each month, offers hands-on activities from 1-3 p.m., $8 per participant; the newly relocated museum features exhibits on local history, from American Indians through early settlers to modern surfing culture; noon to 4 p.m. Wednesdays-Fridays and the last Nov. 7 of each month; 450 Quail Gardens Drive, Encinitas; 760-632-9711 or sdheritage.org.

San Marcos Historical Society Museum ---- The museum is in transition as it relocates to a permanent location in Heritage Park and expands to include a conference room, library, research/storage room, gift shop and restrooms; in the meantime, the museum is operating out of the historical Cox House next door; the museum's collection includes an exhibit of costumed ethnic dolls collected around the world by Joe and Freda Beckett; an exhibition of vignettes of the history of San Marcos is on display; noon to 4 p.m. Tuesdays-Sundays; Heritage Park at Walnut Grove Park, 1950 Sycamore Drive, San Marcos; 760-744-9025.

Junipero Serra Museum ---- The Serra Museum sits on the site of the original San Diego mission set up by the Spanish before they moved to the Mission Valley location, and documents the early history of European settlement in San Diego County; operated by the San Diego Historical Society; winter hours (Labor Day through May 31) 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; summer hours (June 1 to Labor Day), 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday; Presidio Park, 2727 Presidio Drive, Old Town San Diego; $5, general; $4, seniors and military; $2, students; free, children under 6; 619-297-3258 or sandiegohistory.org.

Timken Museum of Art ---- The permanent collection is primarily Dutch, Flemish, French and Italian painters, including Rembrandt, Rubens, Petrus Christus, Fragonard, Jacques-Louis David and Veronese, as well as American artists such as John Singleton Copley and Eastman Johnson; and Russian icons; 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays, 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Sundays; Balboa Park, 1500 El Prado, San Diego; free; 619-239-5548 or timkenmuseum.org.

USS Midway Museum ---- A photo exhibit tracing a century of naval forces in San Diego is now open; floating aircraft carrier museum educates the public on the history of these "floating cities," with rides in Navy jet simulators, tours of the flight, hangar and mess decks, pilot house, navigation bridge and much more; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; Aboard the USS Midway, 910 N. Harbor Drive, San Diego; $17, general; $13, seniors (62+) college students with ID; $10, retired military with ID; $9, children 6 to 17; free, active-duty military and reservists with ID and children under 6; 619-237-9905 or midway.org.

Valley Center History Museum ---- Betty Crocker permanent exhibit, highlighting the career of resident Agnes White Tizard, who played the fictional character, is open, and features a rare audio recording of Tizard; dozens of exhibits on town history, aviation, American Indian artifacts, historical documents, tributes to original settlers and visiting celebrities and more; the museum's centerpiece is a stuffed 8-foot, 1,200-pound California grizzly bear, extinct since 1924, recalling the days when the village was known as Bear Valley; 1 to 4 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays; 29200 Cole Grade Road, Valley Center; free; 760-749-2993 or valleycenterhistory.org.

Vista Historical Society Museum ----- The museum, housed in the historical 1934 two-story Rancho Minerva, exhibits early Vista memorabilia, artworks and photographs of the historical home; 2317 Foothill Drive, Vista; hours, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesdays-Fridays; and the first two Saturdays of each month; 760-630-0444.

Whaley House Museum ---- The Whaley House was built by San Diego pioneer Thomas Whaley in 1857 for his family and general store, and is operated by the Save Our Heritage Organization; the museum is widely rumored to be haunted, resulting in it being open four nights a week ---- see the museum's web site for expanded Halloween hours; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays-Tuesdays, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursdays-Sundays; 2476 San Diego Ave., Old Town San Diego; before 5 p.m. admission is $6, adults, $5, seniors, $4, children 3-12, free, children 2 and under; after 5 p.m. $10, adults and seniors; $5, children 3-12; free, children 2 and under; 619-297-7511 or whaleyhouse.org.

Women's History Museum and Education Center ---- Formerly the Women's History Reclamation Project, the museum features archives and exhibits on important women in world history; noon to 4 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays; 2323 Broadway, Suite 107, San Diego; free, but donations accepted; 619-233-7963 or whmec.org.

Guy B. Woodward Museum ---- The museum focuses on early Western history, specifically that of the Ramona area ---- exhibits include turn-of-the-century furniture, a collection of women's clothing and accessories, a cowboy bunkhouse and the Casey Tibbs Memorial exhibit; 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday-Sundays; 645 Main St., Ramona; $3, adults; 50 cents for children; 760-789-7644 or woodwardmuseum.org.