The Botanical Building and reflecting pool in Balboa Park.

Balboa Park

A journal of San Diego

Gardens, civic architecture and cultural institutions, best explored with attention to the spaces between destinations.

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Balboa Park rewards an approach that includes the outdoor spaces as well as the institutions. The Botanical Building and Lily Pond, built for the 1915–16 exposition, offer a place to begin thinking about the relationship between a landmark, its garden and the approach along El Prado.[12] Read our Botanical Building article for the documented restoration story and details to look for.

Plan by destination rather than assuming one park-wide schedule. The official FAQ distinguishes access to the public grounds from the hours and admission arrangements of individual attractions.[13] Check its linked visitor information before setting out, particularly for parking, accessibility and museum access.

From the journal

The Botanical Building and reflecting pool in Balboa Park.
Architecture · Balboa Park

The Botanical Building: architecture that lets the garden lead

Read Balboa Park’s Botanical Building through its redwood lath, restored arcades and living collection, with a practical guide to looking beyond the postcard.

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