This is one of thelargest urban parks in the United States, and one of the most diverse in theworld. You could spend a week exploring its 1,200 acres (486 hectares) ofwalking trails and gardens, museums and galleries, theaters, restaurants, and world-famous zoo. Thiswealth of year-round entertainment makes it a popular location for both localsand tourists.
A good starting pointis the Visitor Center in the middle of the park. Here you’ll find helpfulvolunteers, information on current exhibits, and a schedule of performances andevents. Free, guided tours of the park are available during the week to takeyou around the park’s major highlights, explaining the historical,architectural and horticultural features. Check at the Visitor Center fortimes.
The SpanishColonial-style buildings located around the Visitor Center house many of thecity’s largest museums, galleries and theaters, including the San Diego Museum of Art,the Air & Space Museum,the Natural History Museum anda dozen more.
Performances takeplace year-round in the various theaters. The Old Globe, for example, stagesmore than 10 plays and musicals during its season.
Balboa Park’sgorgeous gardens offer a peaceful respite, including the Japanese FriendshipGarden, Palm Canyon and the Inez Grant Parker Rose Gardens. The CalifornianNative Plant Garden showcases more than 2,600 varieties of species native toSan Diego along a peaceful mile-long (1.6-kilometer) path.
If you’re looking forsome fun and physical activity, head to the eastern side of the park topractice your golf swing, try your hand at petanque or bocce, or enjoy a gameof tennis under the shade trees.
Thepark grounds are open all year, 24 hours a day. Museum operating hours vary,but most open between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.
