Guide to Visiting Balboa Park in San Diego - Including the Best Photo Spots!
Botanical Building and Lily Pond
My husband grew up in San Diego, and we both have spent years as local residents in Escondido. While we now live in Sacramento, my entire in-law family still lives in the San Diego area and we visit often.
This guide to Balboa Park has been several years in the making, with countless visits to many areas of the park. Below I’ve outlined the best gardens, cultural experiences, the San Diego Zoo, and photo spots inside Balboa Park. This enormous and lush oasis inside the city of San Diego has many things for families to do, and is also a great place for couples and friends to visit. Scroll through the many photos provided in this blog post, and get feel for the vibe and visual inspiration of the Southern California landmark.
Gothic Revival architecture in the park.
Botanical Building and Lily Pond
All About Balboa Park
Balboa Park is a cultural park located in San Diego, California. It covers an area of 1,200 acres and is home to more than 15 museums, several performing arts venues, beautiful gardens, and recreational attractions. It is one of the oldest and largest urban cultural parks in the United States, and is visited by millions of people every year.
Balboa Park is known for its Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, which is seen in many of its buildings, including the San Diego Museum of Art, the Museum of Photographic Arts, and the San Diego History Center. The park is also home to the famous San Diego Zoo, which houses over 3,700 animals and is a popular attraction for visitors of all ages.
Other notable attractions in Balboa Park include the Botanical Building and Lily Pond, the Japanese Friendship Garden, the Spreckels Organ Pavilion, and the Balboa Park Carousel. The park also features numerous hiking and biking trails, as well as several sports facilities and playgrounds.
The California Tower
Gothic Revival architecture in the park.
Botanical Building and Lily Pond
Botanical Building and Lily Pond
Top Sights to Discover in Balboa Park
Old Cactus Garden in Balboa Park
Tucked away behind the Balboa Park Club is a quaint and historic garden known as the "Old Cactus Garden", which was recently renamed the Kate O. Sessions Cactus Garden. This spot is a hidden gem and the perfect location for a desert themed style photo shoot. Most people know of the major attractions in the park such as the Botanical Building and the Spreckels Organ Pavilion (which are definitely worth a visit as well!), but the cactus garden is a very calm and peaceful retreat away from the crowds. I loved all the plant formations, textures and shades of green in this garden. There's so much to see and explore!
Botanical Building and Lily Pond
Botanical Building and Lily Pond
Bea Evenson Fountain
The Bea Evenson Fountain is a prominent feature located in Balboa Park's Botanical Building Plaza. The fountain was designed by architect Richard Requa and built in 1935.
The fountain was originally named the "Casa del Prado Fountain," but was later renamed in honor of Bea Evenson. Evenson was instrumental in the preservation of Balboa Park's historic buildings and was a strong advocate for the park's restoration.
The Bea Evenson Fountain is a beautiful example of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, featuring colorful tile work, a circular basin, and a central pedestal with a statue of a boy holding a seashell. Water flows from the seashell and into the basin, creating a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere. The fountain is surrounded by lush greenery and serves as a popular spot for visitors to relax and take photos.
Botanical Building and Lily Pond
Botanical Building and Lily Pond
One of the most photographed scenes in Balboa Park and a “must-see” destination in San Diego are the Botanical Building and Lily Pond. The building houses more than 2,100 permanent plants, including ferns, orchids, palms, cycads, and other exotic species. It was constructed for the 1915-1916 Panama-California Exposition and is considered one of the largest lath structures in the world.
The Lily Pond, located just in front of the Botanical Building, is a tranquil oasis in the heart of Balboa Park. It is home to a variety of water lilies, lotus flowers, and other aquatic plants, as well as a large number of koi fish. The pond is surrounded by lush greenery and is a popular spot for photographers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
The Botanical Building is usually open to the public, but has been under renovations for the last couple of years. It is hopefully planning to re-open in 2023.
Bea Evenson Fountain
Bea Evenson Fountain
Take a tour inside the California Tower
The California Tower is a historic building that stands 198 feet tall and is located in the heart of the park. The tower was constructed for the 1915 Panama-California Exposition and has become one of the most recognizable and iconic symbols of San Diego.
The California Tower houses a museum that features exhibits on the history of San Diego and the surrounding region. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the tower and enjoy panoramic views of the park and the city beyond. From the observation deck, visitors can see the San Diego Bay, the Pacific Ocean, and the surrounding mountains.
The California Tower was closed to the public for many years, but it underwent a major renovation and reopened in 2015, just in time for the 100th anniversary of the Panama-California Exposition. The tower is now open for tours, and visitors can explore the exhibits inside and climb to the top for breathtaking views.
Desert Garden
Desert Garden
I mentioned the Old Cactus Garden above, but there’s actually two cactus gardens in Balboa Park. We took wedding photos for my sister-in-law’s wedding inside the Desert Garden.
The Desert Garden is one of the most popular attractions in Balboa Park. It is a 2.5-acre botanical garden that showcases a diverse collection of plants from arid regions around the world, including Africa, the Americas, and Australia.
The Desert Garden was established in 1935, and today it is home to over 1,300 plant species, including cacti, succulents, agaves, and other desert-adapted plants. Some of the highlights of the garden include the giant saguaro cactus, the Joshua tree, and the impressive boojum tree, which is native to Baja California.
The garden is divided into several themed areas, and also features several walking paths that wind through the garden, allowing visitors to explore the different plant collections and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the desert landscape.
Desert Garden
Desert Garden
Spanish Village Art Center
A haven for art lovers, walk over the rainbow cobblestone and admire all the works from local artists. This vibrant and colorful artist community located in Balboa Park was originally built in 1935 and is now home to over 30 working artist studios, galleries, and shops.
Visitors to the Spanish Village Art Center can explore the studios and galleries, watch artists at work, and purchase a wide variety of handmade crafts, paintings, jewelry, ceramics, and other unique items. The artists at the center work in a variety of mediums, including glass, metal, wood, paint, and fiber.
In addition to the working artist studios and galleries, the Spanish Village Art Center features a beautiful central courtyard and fountain, surrounded by colorful Spanish-style buildings. The courtyard is a popular spot for visitors to relax and take in the ambiance of the center, and it is also used for special events, such as weddings, art shows, and concerts.
Kate O. Sessions Cactus Garden
Kate O. Sessions Cactus Garden
Japanese Friendship Garden
The Japanese Friendship Garden is a beautiful and serene oasis located within Balboa Park. The garden was built as a symbol of friendship between San Diego and its sister city, Yokohama, Japan, and features traditional Japanese landscaping, architecture, and cultural elements.
Visitors to the Japanese Friendship Garden can stroll along winding paths and bridges, enjoy the sound of cascading waterfalls and koi ponds, and take in the beauty of Japanese-style gardens featuring bamboo, cherry blossom trees, and other native Japanese plants. The garden also features a traditional Japanese tea house, where visitors can experience a traditional tea ceremony and learn about the Japanese tea culture.
Kate O. Sessions Cactus Garden
Kate O. Sessions Cactus Garden
San Diego Art Institute
Whether you're an art enthusiast or just looking for a unique cultural experience, the San Diego Art Institute is a must-visit destination in Balboa Park. The institute offers a glimpse into the vibrant and ever-changing world of contemporary art and provides a platform for artists to share their unique perspectives and ideas with the community.
The SDAI features a rotating schedule of exhibitions, workshops, and artist talks, showcasing a diverse range of contemporary art, including painting, sculpture, photography, video, and multimedia installations. The galleries are spread over two floors, featuring state-of-the-art exhibition spaces that provide a dynamic and immersive art experience. The institute's permanent collection consists of over 6,000 pieces of contemporary art, including works by local and international artists.
The California Tower
Plan a Picnic in Balboa Park
Balboa Park offers plenty of great picnic spots where you can enjoy a relaxing outdoor meal with friends and family. Pack up your blanket and basket, find a friendly grassy null or bench and set up camp. Make sure to take advantage of one of the many view points in the park.
Here are some of the best picnic spots in Balboa Park:
Pepper Grove: Located near the Fleet Science Center, Pepper Grove offers plenty of shaded picnic tables, as well as open grassy areas where you can spread out a blanket and enjoy the scenery.
Morley Field: This expansive park area offers picnic tables, BBQ grills, and a beautiful lawn where you can relax and play games with family and friends.
Palm Canyon: This lush and tranquil canyon is the perfect spot for a peaceful picnic. The area features picnic tables, benches, and plenty of shade trees.
Botanical Building and Lily Pond: The Botanical Building and Lily Pond area is a popular spot for picnics, with plenty of benches and tables available. You can also enjoy the stunning views of the lily pond and the surrounding gardens.
Spreckels Organ Pavilion: This outdoor amphitheater features plenty of shaded areas where you can enjoy a picnic while listening to live music from the famous Spreckels Organ.
Balboa Park Miniature Railroad area: This charming area features picnic tables and a playground, as well as the Balboa Park Miniature Railroad, a fun attraction for kids and families.
Remember to follow the park rules, including leaving no trace and packing out your trash to help keep Balboa Park beautiful for everyone to enjoy.
Kate O. Sessions Cactus Garden
Kate O. Sessions Cactus Garden
Explore Balboa Park with Your Dog
San Diego is a very dog-friendly city. Invite your furry friends along to enjoy some fresh air and sunshine along with you in the park. While most park grounds require dogs to be on a leash, there are a few leash-free zones for your pup to run free.
Nate's Point Dog Park: Located within Balboa Park, Nate's Point is a popular off-leash dog park that offers separate areas for small and large dogs. The park features plenty of shade, water fountains, and benches for owners to sit and watch their dogs play.
Grape Street Dog Park: This popular dog park is located just a few blocks from Balboa Park and features separate areas for small and large dogs, as well as a doggy obstacle course and plenty of open space for your pup to run and play.
Morley Field Dog Park: Another nearby option, Morley Field Dog Park is a large off-leash area located in Morley Field Sports Complex. The park features separate areas for small and large dogs, as well as water fountains, shade trees, and plenty of open space for your dog to run and play.
Remember to always keep an eye on your dog, pick up after them, and follow the park rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Spreckels Organ Pavilion
Spreckels Organ Pavilion
San Diego Museum of Art
The San Diego Museum of Art is one of the premier art museums in Southern California, located in Balboa Park, San Diego. Founded in 1926, the museum's collection spans over 7,000 years of artistic expression, from ancient objects to contemporary art.
The museum's collection includes works of art from Europe, Asia, the Americas, and Africa, with a focus on Spanish and Italian Renaissance, Dutch and Flemish Baroque, and 19th and 20th century American art. Some of the museum's most famous works include paintings by El Greco, Diego Velázquez, and Francisco de Zurbarán, as well as sculptures by Auguste Rodin and Henry Moore.
The San Diego Museum of Art also features a variety of temporary exhibitions, showcasing works from both established and emerging artists from around the world.
The museum's stunning architecture is also a highlight, with a mix of Spanish Colonial Revival and modern styles, and a central courtyard that offers a tranquil escape from the bustle of the city.
Kate O. Sessions Cactus Garden
Kate O. Sessions Cactus Garden
Kate O. Sessions Cactus Garden
Kate O. Sessions Cactus Garden
San Diego Natural History Museum (theNat)
Are you fascinated by dinosaurs (like Ross from Friends!)? Take a stroll through a recreated prehistoric scene and walk alongside these reptile giants. The San Diego Natural History Museum, also known as theNat, is a popular science museum located in Balboa Park. The museum was founded in 1874 and is dedicated to promoting the understanding and appreciation of the natural world.
The museum's permanent exhibits include interactive displays on the geology, flora, and fauna of Southern California, as well as exhibits on anthropology, paleontology, and biodiversity. The museum's most famous exhibit is the Fossil Mysteries exhibit, which features an extensive collection of dinosaur fossils and other prehistoric specimens.
One of the most popular attractions at theNat is the 3D theater, which features films on a range of topics, from nature and wildlife to space exploration and deep-sea diving.
The museum's building is also an architectural gem, with a modern and environmentally sustainable design that blends seamlessly into the natural surroundings of Balboa Park.
San Diego Zoo Aviary
Top Things to Explore at the San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo is located inside Balboa Park and is one of the largest and most renown zoos in the United States. I hadn't visited for years and I was very excited to go back and check out all the new exhibits they've added.
Africa Rocks
The exhibit was designed to mimic the giant granite boulders that are found on Boulders Beach in South Africa, a place where these penguins naturally live. The contrast of the penguins living in harmony with sharks is a sight to see, they swim side by side like little buddies.
San Diego Zoo Africa Rocks
Tarantula at the San Diego Zoo
Have a Margarita at the Zoo!
I had no idea that the zoo was such a party place, they have a full bar serving cocktails and spirits. Cheers!
Elephant Odyssey
Elephants are my all-favorite zoo animals and it's a fun walk through the exhibit. The elephants are neighbors to the big cats like lions and jaguars.
San Diego Zoo’s Leopard Sharks inside Africa Rocks
San Diego Zoo
San Diego Zoo
Bird Aviaries
There's multiple aviaries around the park with lush tropical greenery and so many colorful and spunky birds. They came right up to us, singing and tweeting.
Take a ride on the Skyfari
Ride high in the sky and take in aerial views of the zoo and Balboa Park. It's an easy and fun way to get around the zoo!
San Diego Zoo’s Penguins inside Africa Rocks
San Diego Zoo’s Flamingos
Giant Anteaters at the San Diego Zoo
Hibiscus flowers inside the San Diego Zoo.
Our Favorite San Diego Hotels:
The Andaz San Diego hotel is a luxury boutique hotel located in the Gaslamp Quarter of downtown San Diego. Features a rooftop bar and lounge, known as The Rooftop by STK, which offers stunning views of the city skyline.
The San Diego Mission Bay Resort is a waterfront resort located on Mission Bay. One of the highlights of the San Diego Mission Bay Resort is its outdoor aquatic center, which features a 4,000 square foot pool, a sandy beach, and a variety of water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing.
The Orly La Jolla Hotel is a luxury hotel located in La Jolla, designed with a modern and contemporary aesthetic. In addition to its prime location, it offers a variety of amenities including a rooftop pool.
