Balboa Park in San Diego, California

Balboa Park is an expansive 1200 acre urban park complete with museums, venues, gardens, and attractions within San Diego, California. The park hosted the 1915 to 1916 Panama - California Exposition touting San Diego as the first United States port-of-call following the completion of the Panama Canal. The 1935 to 1936 California Pacific International Exposition was also hosted at Balboa Park, and both events resulted in a number of architecturally significant structures that gave the park an impressive aesthetic that still remains to this day. 

Balboa Park is clearly a source of pride in San Diego. From buskers to artists to concerts and community gatherings, the area is alive with all kinds of things happening in close proximity. It's also incredibly picturesque with lush gardens, fountains, reflecting pools, and elaborate architectural embellishments that encourage you to keep exploring. 

There's so much located here that it would take numerous visits to see it all. Balboa Park is home to the world famous San Diego Zoo, as well as other major attractions like the Museum of Man and the Natural History Museum. If you only have time to visit one place in San Diego, you won't be disappointed spending an afternoon wandering around Balboa Park.

Complete photo series: PART 2 | PART 3

Panama - California Exposition in Balboa Park ca. 1915

Dr. Seuss Christmas Tree.