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The Salk Institute for Biological Studies

$· Inexpensive

Iconic architectural masterpiece and world-class biomedical research center in La Jolla

Perched on the coastal bluffs of La Jolla, the Salk Institute for Biological Studies is a world-renowned scientific research center founded by polio vaccine pioneer Jonas Salk. Designed by acclaimed architect Louis Kahn, its striking modernist concrete structures frame a central travertine courtyard that aligns seamlessly with the Pacific Ocean horizon. Visitors come to appreciate its groundbreaking biological discoveries alongside its extraordinary, oceanfront architectural symmetry.

History

Established in 1960 by Jonas Salk, the developer of the polio vaccine, the Institute was created to be a collaborative space where researchers could work together to tackle the major health problems of the day. Salk enlisted renowned architect Louis Kahn to design a facility that would inspire and facilitate groundbreaking biological research.

Quick tip: Reserve your visiting reservation or tour online in advance through their website, as public visiting hours are extremely limited.

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