Balboa Park

Today’s journey begins near the Hillcrest Farmers Market. They aren’t quite set up yet so, since Balboa Park is just a short walk south, off we go. Approaching The Park from the north, we first walk past the San Diego Zoo. I found The Zoo inspiring when I first arrived in San Diego in 2002 and I still do. I purchased an annual pass every year for the first decade I lived here. There is always something new going on at The Zoo. I haven’t volunteered at The Zoo - yet, but who knows.

Walking south on the east side of The Zoo is the Miniature (small gauge) Railroad. Every night after all the big and little kids have gone home, the rail cars are parked in their barn for safe keeping. Continuing south we walk through Spanish Village which is the home of over 200 artists. One of my features of Spanish Village are the colorful tiles that carpet the large courtyard which is surrounded by artists studios. When you’re there, buy something! When you do, you're support local artists and their art.

Just to the south of Spanish Village is a huge Ficus Macrophylla that was planted in 1915, prior to the Panama-California International Exposition.

It’s over 100 years old and stands over 80 feet. Many folks find this a great photo opp, including me. Even though it is only February 7th, Spring seems to have sprung in San Diego. White blossomed trees line many of the walks and roads around the park and zoo, all in full bloom. 

If you turn south on Village Place, or rather continue on the walk south from Village Place, you will walk through Zoro Garden. For some reason this is a spot that is overlooked by most. If the frenetic pace of life in the Park becomes a little overwhelming, this is a great spot to take a breather and enjoy the flowers and hummingbirds. Continue walking south and turn right at the end of the building. Continue walking west and you will see a beautiful vista across the Japanese garden. Continue and you will walk through the garden behind the Prado Restaurant. Another favorite, quiet spot to get a break from the crowds, when it’s available. This garden is used frequently for weddings and other events.

Exit the garden to the west. You will be walking into the south end of the Plaza de Panama. Watch out for the colorful dragon which guards the Mingei International Museum. Turn left and walk south toward the Spreckels Organ Pavilion. The Pavilion was constructed in 1914, opened in 1915 and still books events year round.

Are your feet getting sore and tired? Watch for the green trams. They run from Plaza de Panama down to the Air and Space Museum then over to the Old Navy Hospital, now the San Diego Parks Administration building. 


Personally, I think the magnificent grounds on the east side of the Old Hospital are spectacular. There are several fountains and beautiful domed structures that are unique and have been preserved in excellent condition. This is another area that, for some unknown reason, people ignore. I’ve been in the beautiful grounds behind the hospital several times and rarely see anyone.

Well, it’s time to head back to the Hillcrest Farmers Market because I’m getting hungry. Rather than going back through the park, I’m going to walk up Park Blvd. through the Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden and Desert Garden.

After a delicious pulled pork sandwich at the farmers market, its time to head for home.

Why don’t you RetireInSanDiego? Maybe I’ll convince you in time to take a closer look. By the way, I wrote most of this blog at a picnic table near the old Navy Hospital. Enjoy the following pics.