Balboa Park is one of San Diego’s most popular landmarks, covering a massive 1,200 acres of land and featuring a wide variety of scenery and activities. The park is like a city within a city with so many things to do such as visit the many museums, gardens, shopping and theaters. It is such a large park they even have their own app you can download on iPhone or Android to navigate through all the things to see and places to go.
If you expect to be in the San Diego area soon and are looking for something exciting to do for a day, or two, here are a few ideas of what to do when in Balboa Park.
Visit the Botanical Building
During your trip to Balboa Park, you are more than likely to run into a large pond with an interesting brown building in the back. This area is known as the Botanical Building and it houses an enormous collection of some of the world’s most beautiful tropical plants as well as spectacular seasonal floral displays.
Originally built for the Panama-California Exposition in 1915, the building now serves as a place where guests can see magnificent orchid displays, take a walk through the scratch-and-sniff garden, and see different species of cycads and palms. If you’re a fan of nature, you will definitely love the Botanical Building in Balboa Park.
Peruse the Spanish Village Art Center
The Spanish Village Art Center, an area that was built in 1935 for the California Pacific International and later used as temporary barracks during the second world war, is a vibrant location where one can enjoy the works of hundreds of local artists. From basket-weaving to sculptures, the center has thirty-seven active studios and galleries that promote the work of over two hundred different artists.
The area itself is beautiful and vibrant with all of the different pieces that have been produced and are currently on display. The center is known to have daily art demonstrations for those who are just passing through, and it also organizes classes that people can sign up for ahead of time. Musicians perform during the weekends and there is an amazing coffee cart known to travel around the area. For those who enjoy art and culture, the Spanish Village Art Center is a must-see location.
Explore the Shopping Opportunities Scattered Throughout the Park
Although Balboa Park is well-known for its nature and its attractions, it does have plenty of shopping spots for the avid shopper.. At the WorldBeat Center OneWorld Gifts gift shop, visitors can purchase a variety or musical instruments, clothing, and art pieces with an African theme. The Bibliotique at the San Diego Museum of Art offers gifts related to San Diego culture. And for tech-lovers looking to invest in a new device or accessory upgrades, you can head to one of the best looking AT&T stores in California. Balboa Park definitely has a little something for everyone. In addition to the many shopping opportunities located within the park, there is no limit to the amount of shopping locations located on the outskirts of the park or just a little beyond, as well.
Although we don’t normally associate the word “park” with attractions or shopping, don’t let the name Balboa Park fool you! These 1,200 acres of land have a ton of activities, shopping experiences, learning experiences, and scenery to offer all individuals and for each member of your family. If you have heard of Balboa Park and you are considering a visit, be sure to use these three ideas above to make your day at Balboa Park a blast!