Balboa Park near downtown San Diego is the country’s biggest urban cultural park. It occupies 1,200 acres and offers fifteen important museums, several performing arts venues, a number of gorgeous gardens, and of course, the San Diego Zoo. El Prado is the park’s main pedestrian walkway where visitors can access many of the ornate Spanish Renaissance-style museums and landmarks. A visitor center is located in the House of Hospitality on El Prado. This beautifully landscaped park is also home to the Old Globe Theater, Spreckels Organ Pavilion, Japanese Friendship Garden, and the mesmerizing Botanical Building and Lily Pond, all worthy destinations on their own. There is no admission fee to the park, and parking is free.

Address: Balboa Park, 1549 El Prado, San Diego, Phone: 619-239-0512

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