What’s the Single Thing I Need to See when Coming to San Diego?
If there’s one thing you absolutely need to see when coming to San Diego, it would have to be Balboa Park, a sprawling 1,200-acre open space nestled in the heart of what’s often referred to as America’s Finest City. The reason for putting Balboa Park at the top of a must-see list for San Diego is because of the many things to do and see within this one spot alone. In fact, you can literally spend a whole day here and still have a long list of things you haven’t yet seen, visited, or explored. The friendly team from Sunrise Inn San Diego, one of the most comfortable, affordable San Diego hotels you can find, describe a few things that make this San Diego treasure so special.
Check Out the View from California Tower
Built for the 1915 Panama–California Exposition, the California Tower is the most recognizable historic landmark located directly in Balboa Park. You’re also welcome to tour it while here as long as you purchase tickets in advance.
Dine at Panama 66
An open-air restaurant and popular romantic spot, Panama 66 is a Zagat-rated Balboa Park destination where you can sample uniquely prepared sandwiches and an assortment of other tasty treats. Wine and signature cocktails are equally popular with patrons.
Take in a Show at the Old Globe
Get your culture on at Balboa Park by making your way to The Old Globe. It’s home to an annual summertime Shakespeare Festival that’s always a big draw. Additional productions take place here throughout the year, both indoors and outdoors.
Visit Museums for Every Interest
Balboa Park is also home to an assortment of museums dedicated to a wide range of interests. The San Diego Air & Space Museum, the Timken Museum of Art, the Mingei International Museum, the San Diego Mineral and Gem Society’s museum, and the San Diego Museum of Art are among the many museum options at Balboa Park.
Take Advantage of Hiking Opportunities Galore
If you have plans to get in touch with nature while visiting San Diego, Balboa Park is the place to go, too. Simply pack your hiking gear, and you’ll be all set to hike and explore at any pace that’s comfortable for you along the many trails either located in or accessible from Balboa Park. This list includes the following park-accessible trails:
• Golden Hill Trails Gateway
• Marston Point Trails Gateway
• Morley Field Trails Gateway
• Sixth and Upas Trails Gateway
Check Out Other Must-See Balboa Attractions
The Palm Canyon Trail is also worth exploring if you want to immerse yourself in a world with a prehistoric jungle-like feel. Featuring more than 2,000 permanent plants, the Botanical Building should also be on your list of things to see at Balboa Park if one of your priorities for your San Diego visit is to take some impressive pics.
Additional Balboa attractions to consider checking out during your trip include:
• The Cabrillo Bridge
• The San Diego Zoo—home to more than 12,000 animals*
• The Moreton Bay Fig Tree
• Sefton Plaza
• The Photographic Arts Building
• The Balboa Park Miniature Train—operated by the San Diego Zoo
*One-day zoo passes can be purchased before you arrive.
Balboa Park is only one of the incredible things to enjoy when you come to San Diego, and it will take several days to do and see everything on your list, so reserve your room today at Sunrise Inn San Diego. When they’re looking for the most comfortable cheap hotels, San Diego visitors will be amazed by our unbeatable rates as well as our spacious rooms, stunning views of the harbor, and proximity to the best tourist attractions in America’s Finest City. Call one of our friendly staff members today at (619) 223-5544.