things to do in balboa park
Balboa Park is a 1,200-acre cultural and recreational complex in San Diego, California, that offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. Here are some things to do in Balboa Park:
- Visit Museums: Balboa Park is home to more than 15 museums, including the San Diego Museum of Art, the San Diego Natural History Museum, the Museum of Photographic Arts, and the San Diego Air & Space Museum.
- Explore Gardens: The park features several beautiful gardens, including the Japanese Friendship Garden, the Desert Garden, the Rose Garden, and the Botanical Building and Lily Pond.
- Take a Guided Tour: Balboa Park offers guided tours of the park’s museums, gardens, and architecture. You can choose from walking tours, bus tours, or self-guided tours.
- Attend a Performance: The park is home to several performing arts venues, including the San Diego Civic Theatre, the Old Globe Theatre, and the Spreckels Organ Pavilion.
- Visit the San Diego Zoo: The world-famous San Diego Zoo is located within Balboa Park and is home to more than 3,500 animals from around the world.
- Ride the Balboa Park Mini Train: The mini train is a fun way to see the park’s sights and is especially popular with kids.
- Play Sports: Balboa Park has several sports facilities, including a golf course, tennis courts, and a swimming pool.
- Have a Picnic: The park has several picnic areas, including the beautiful Botanical Building and Lily Pond.
- Shop and Dine: Balboa Park has several restaurants, cafes, and shops, including the historic Prado Restaurant and the San Diego Museum of Art’s Museum Store.
- Attend a Festival or Event: Balboa Park hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the San Diego Pride Festival, the Balboa Park December Nights festival, and the San Diego Shakespeare Festival.
- Visit the California Tower: The California Tower is a historic landmark that offers panoramic views of the city and is home to the San Diego Museum of Man.
- Explore the Park’s Architecture: Balboa Park is known for its beautiful architecture, including the Spanish Colonial Revival-style buildings and the iconic California Tower.
- Take a Hike: The park has several hiking trails, including the Balboa Park Trail and the Sixth Avenue Trail.
- Visit the Marston Point: Marston Point is a scenic overlook that offers stunning views of the city and the bay.
- Attend a Concert or Movie: During the summer months, Balboa Park hosts outdoor concerts and movie screenings at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Balboa Park. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to find something that interests you!
