Our Beginnings: The Naval Training Center, San Diego’s Cradle of the Navy

For more than 75 years, hundreds of thousands of Navy recruits were trained at Naval Training Center San Diego (NTC). It was here that these young men and women matured and received the knowledge and skills required for the challenges of military duty. Now inactive, NTC has been designated as a National Historical District for its architectural and cultural significance. It is a San Diego treasure and a significant community asset, and it continues to hold the memories of past generations of naval recruits whose lives were transformed at NTC.

For a history of the Naval Training Center, we recommend Cradle of the Navy: The History of the Naval Training Center San Diego.

From Navy Base to Arts District Liberty Station

When the Navy announced NTC’s closure in 1997, arts leaders saw that a long-term need for arts space could be met with the buildings. When the City of San Diego developed the NTC Master Plan, 26 buildings were set aside for arts and cultural uses in the historic heart of NTC, now called Arts District Liberty Station. Arts District Liberty Station was established in 2000.

NTC is once again serving San Diego proudly and transforming the lives of new generations as Arts District Liberty Station, a new flagship for arts, culture, and creativity. Arts District Liberty Station’s stunning park-like campus, nostalgic promenade, and spectacular bay views provide an extraordinary setting.

But it is what takes place inside these buildings, and the benefits to the tenants and the community, that make Arts District Liberty Station so significant as a center for arts, culture, and creativity that offers innovative experiences to both residents and visitors, a creative hub for San Diego’s nonprofits and artists, a dynamic destination for children and families, and a historical showcase that honors the city’s Navy heritage.

With renovations to 17 of 26 buildings complete at a cost of nearly $50 million, Arts District Liberty Station is already home to more than 100 tenants , as well as historical exhibits and tributes.