A couple of months ago, when my husband asked me to join him in sunny San Diego for a conference, I jumped at the chance. I’m one of the lucky ones who can work from anywhere, and when you cover topics such as travel and food, you take advantage of these serendipitous moments.
The last time I visited this southern California beach town was six years ago, and I was excited to get back and do a little more exploring, even if it was by myself while he was busy during the day.
I immediately began putting together a list of places to visit and explore. From world-class museums, an incredible zoo, and beautiful beaches to historic landmarks like Balboa Park, America’s Finest City is a top-notch travel destination.
Historic Balboa Park
Historic Balboa Park, a cultural oasis sprawled across 1,200 acres, uniquely blends 18 museums, lush gardens, and the famous San Diego Zoo. Its rich history and stunning architecture make it a must-visit destination, not far from the vibrant downtown.
Balboa Park’s fascinating history is central to San Diego’s story. It began in 1868 when civic leaders boldly decided to set aside a scrub-filled mesa overlooking downtown to create a city park. Today, the park remains a vibrant blend of what makes the city unique — ethnically diverse, historically rich, culturally abundant, and naturally breathtaking.
The City Council hired Bertram G. Goodhue as the leading architect. He designed the park in a blend of Mediterranean and Spanish Colonial Revival styles, combining elements of Spanish Baroque and Spanish Colonial architecture. With this design, he aimed to evoke the glamour, artistry, and unique culture of romantic Spanish cities like Seville and Toledo in Spain and Guadalajara in Mexico.
How to Spend a Day in the Park
If you only have one day to explore Balboa, you’re not going to see everything. It takes at least a week to tour and enjoy all that’s offered. So, make sure you plan your itinerary around the things you love the most. For me, that meant gorgeous gardens, incredible art, and animals.
The Japanese Friendship Garden
Most exhibits and spaces offer free admission; however, a few places cost something, including the Japanese Friendship Garden. It was worth every penny of the $16 spent to explore the exquisite grounds, which symbolize San Diego’s friendship with its sister city, Yokohama, Japan.
This living, breathing art is filled with impressive koi ponds, babbling brooks and waterfalls, and lush foliage. Visitors can sit in awe under the larger-than-life Buddha sculpture, explore traditional architectural features, and deepen their appreciation for Japanese culture with a visit to the museum showcasing early artwork and scrolls.
I easily spent an hour absorbing the tranquility and peace the garden exuded, which was a fantastic way to start my day.
All the Art, Please!
As an avid art collector and lover of interesting and beautiful pieces spanning multiple periods and styles, Balboa Park was the perfect spot for me to spend most of the day. If you have similar interests, then this will be your slice of heaven on earth.
Timken Museum of Art
If you’re a fan of exploring the European old-world art masters, such as Rembrandt, Hals, and Bruegel, the Timken Museum of Art is the delicate jewel box to do just that. The Timken also often displays more modern artwork of the 19th and 21st centuries.
While there, I had the incredible luck of seeing a stunning piece by New York-based artist Kehinde Wiley. If that name sounds familiar to you, it should, as he was the artist who painted President and First Lady Obama’s official White House portraits. His take on the Flemish artist Anthony Van Dyck’s Mary Villiers, Lady Herbert of Shurland was astounding.
The vibrant colors and intensity of his piece, Equestrian Portrait of Tommaso of Savoy-Carignan, will take your breath away.
Institute of Contemporary Art
After Timken, I made my way to the Institute of Contemporary Art, the park’s home to progressive and experimental artwork. This museum highlights the work of artists living between Los Angeles and Tijuana through exhibitions, programming, and educational initiatives.
It showcases a range of art forms, including painting, photography, contemporary craft, social practice, site-specific installations, and experimental new media works, all designed to inspire in-depth conversations and spark creativity. Unfortunately, the San Diego Museum of Art was closed the day I was there.
Spanish Village Art Center
The Spanish Village Art Center was such a fun experience. A highlight of the day was meeting and chatting with multiple artisans who have set up shop in this vibrant village. Walking along the brightly painted large brick pathways with whimsical signs hanging over each studio door exuded a warmth that draws you in.
As you go from studio to studio, take your time to learn about making glass jewelry or firing a kiln to set ceramics. And when you get thirsty, stop by Daniel’s Coffee Cart and grab a flavored iced tea or coffee and a sweet pastry. You won’t be disappointed.
San Diego Zoo
I wrapped up my day by visiting the San Diego Zoo. This world-class exhibit features a variety of rare and endangered animals and includes many successful breeding and conservation programs. The park is divided into different enclosures and sections. Some of the most popular of these include Africa Rocks, Australian Outback, Lost Forest, and Elephant Odyssey.
Because I had already spent half a day in the park before heading to the zoo, I only checked out my favorite animal exhibits rather than spending the four to six hours recommended to see it all. However, I highly recommend spending a whole day there if you can – it’s worth it!
