"I grew up in San Diego and yes folks, it's changed...it's MORPHED!!! There are still a few places that are classics and still hold their unique beauty; Balboa Park is one of those sites. The park is home to one of the worlds best zoo's, the some of the worlds best live theatre and incredible museums. Live performers can been seen on sunny days (and some not so sunny) playing music, singing, dancing, performing magic tricks, painting, drawing, the list is endless. It's one of the places that families on a tight budget can visit and not have to spend a lot of money. I know, I grew up here, I had two kids here and I know how to entertain them with out going to the zoo! On a sunny day go to the local grocer; buy some sandwich fixings, fruit, drinks and lots of water. Snag a few big towels from the hotel room (gotta have something to sit on in the park) and get yourself to the park as soon as you can. Any sunny spot on the grass in the park will do for people watching, squirrel wars and street performers. Enjoy your meal, let the kids run wild on the grass, take a few pictures and when your done; run those towels back to the car. You are now ready to walk the park armed with your camera and maybe your wallet; in case you want a snow cone or a hand dipped ice cream. Take in the arboretum for free. It's got some of the most unique orchids growing in the world! Walk around the Casa Del Prado; home to the oldest kids theatres in San Diego (I'm proud to be part of it's alumni). You might get to see a few classes in session on Saturday morning. Shows run about $15.00 and have a cast full of talented kids! Most of the museums have a small fee or run monthly deals. If your visiting in the summer, your pocket book is full and you enjoy live theatre and the arts there is nothing better than taking in a live performance at the Starlight Opera. It's outside under the stars. The coolest thing about it is watching the actors get cues to freeze while a plane goes over! It's a little bit away from Balboa Park proper but well worth it! "

Read ssmurdoch4's San Diego reviews | Comment

"This is one of my favorite places in San Diego!! There are beautiful gardens, and lots of museums, a theater, and the zoo. It’s a beautiful spot, full of green plants and ponds, and it’s great to have a picnic and relax out on the lawns. There’s plenty of parking, and it’s a bit away from the city, so it’s quieter, although it’s a popular spot. On the first Tuesday of every month, the museums are free! That’s a great time to go; although it’s crowded, you can save a lot of money! Just going to the park is nice, too, even if you don’t want to go to any of the museums!"

Read m8888888's San Diego reviews | Comment