Take a Trip to Balboa Park

San Diego is one of those cities that never gets old or dull. With interesting sites at every turn, beaches, two amusement parks, botanical gardens, museums, a zoo, two historic districts, a port, nearby islands, and shopping galore you can easily fill your day, week or month.

Since we live a short drive away, we have a few favorite day trip schedules. Heading to Balboa Park is a favorite of ours.

Balboa Park really takes more than one day to enjoy. The problem is that most people try to crunch this in before or after the zoo or some other attraction. You need to realize that there are museums, an interactive science center and gardens galore all located in this one spot. Spend at least one full day exploring the different sites at the park.

The Reuben H. Fleet Science Center is a can’t miss activity, especially if you are bringing kids with you to San Diego, with the Family Activity Day they host on the third Saturday of every month, parents have an excuse to participate without feeling silly. Finding out how science works is encouraged by getting into their interactive exhibits like the upcoming exhibit of Grossology, the disgusting stuff that happens in animal science.

The Air & Space Museum is another must see and a perfect family stop. They host family days the second Saturday of every month, a perfect reason to spend more than one day at the Park. With crafts and activities, the kids and you are sure to enjoy your time here. If that is not enough to interest you, how about the new Star Trek Exhibit? It is running for a limited time.

The San Diego Museum of Art is the oldest art museum in the area and has carried many famous exhibits throughout its years. Georgia O’Keeffe is now on exhibit and will add a bonus to your trip to Balboa Park.

The Museum of Man is another favorite stop with so much to look at, the day will fly by, reminding you that Balboa Park has more than enough to fill y our day.

As tempting as it is, don’t spend your entire day indoors at the museums. There are trails that wrap around the park. If you hit it at the right time, you might find a medieval group jousting and carrying on, or a group lawn bowling, maybe even a play or a wedding.

Be sure to visit the Japanese Gardens and Botanical Gardens before you head off to the grassy tree filled spots with views of downtown to enjoy a picnic or grab a bite to eat from Lady Carolyn’s Pub located by the Old Globe in Balboa Park.