10 Things You Didn't Know About San Diego's Balboa Park

Balboa Park, located in the heart of San Diego, is a world-class cultural and natural gem, offering visitors a blend of history, cultural experiences, and stunning outdoor spaces. While many are familiar with the park’s iconic attractions like the San Diego Zoo and the Natural History Museum, Balboa Park holds a treasure trove of secrets that most visitors are unaware of. Whether you're a local San Diegan or a first-time visitor, this expansive park is full of surprises.

Before we dive into the wonders of Balboa Park, it’s worth mentioning how you can make your visit easier. If you're planning a trip to explore Balboa Park, whether you're visiting for a day or staying for a longer period, Nannybag’s luggage storage service provides an excellent solution. Nannybag luggage storage in San Diego offers safe, secure storage, so you don’t have to worry about lugging your bags around the park.

With multiple storage facilities scattered throughout the city, including areas near Balboa Park, San Diego International Airport, and Seaport Village, you can easily store your luggage and enjoy the sights with peace of mind. The easy access to storage lockers and luggage storage locations ensures a hassle-free experience when visiting San Diego. Now, let’s explore 10 things you didn’t know about Balboa Park!

1. Balboa Park is Larger than Central Park

While Central Park in New York City is an iconic urban green space, Balboa Park in San Diego is even larger. Spanning over 1,200 acres, Balboa Park is significantly more expansive than Central Park’s 840 acres. This vast park offers not only plenty of space for relaxation but also features beautiful gardens, hiking trails, and picnic areas. The park’s size means there’s always something new to discover, from quiet nooks to more bustling attractions, providing a peaceful escape from the busy downtown area.

2. It Was the Site of the Panama-California Exposition

In 1915, Balboa Park was home to the Panama-California Exposition, a grand event that showcased the progress of the United States and celebrated the opening of the Panama Canal. This exposition was a pivotal moment in the park’s history and helped shape its current appearance.

The iconic Spanish Colonial Revival architecture seen throughout the park today, including the Museum of Man and the San Diego Zoo’s entrance, was influenced by the exposition. Many of the original buildings were constructed for the event and have since been preserved as part of the park’s heritage.

3. The Park is Home to Multiple Museums

While you may know that Balboa Park is home to the renowned San Diego Zoo, did you know that it also houses 17 museums? One of the standout institutions is the Natural History Museum, which offers a deep dive into the history of the region, from prehistoric fossils to native species of flora and fauna.

Another notable museum is the USS Midway Museum, a must-visit for military history enthusiasts, offering a unique chance to explore the history of the U.S. Navy’s aircraft carriers. For art lovers, the San Diego Museum of Art features world-class collections, including works from the European Renaissance to contemporary pieces.

4. It’s the Home of the Globe Theatre

Balboa Park is also the cultural hub of San Diego's theatre scene, and the Globe Theatre is one of its most important landmarks. Inspired by Shakespearean theatre, the Old Globe Theatre is known for its exceptional productions and serves as a year-round venue for performances. Opened in 1935, the Globe Theatre has become one of the premier regional theatres in the United States. Whether you’re a fan of classical drama or contemporary productions, the Globe Theatre offers an experience you won’t want to miss.

5. You Can Store Your Luggage Nearby

If you’re planning to visit Balboa Park and have some extra baggage with you, Nannybag’s luggage lockers provide a convenient solution. Nannybag offers luggage storage in San Diego, including nearby storage facilities near Balboa Park, so you don’t have to worry about carrying your bags through the park.

Simply store your luggage, whether at a nearby storage facility or luggage lockers located close to popular attractions, and explore Balboa Park without the burden of heavy bags. With convenient locations, you’ll have easy access to secure storage space, allowing you to enjoy your visit to the fullest.

6. The Park Was Originally Called “City Park”

Before it became known as Balboa Park, the site was originally referred to as "City Park." The park was designed in 1868 by landscape architect William W. Price and was intended to be a recreational area for San Diegans. The park’s name was later changed to honor Vasco Núñez de Balboa, the Spanish explorer who was the first European to see the Pacific Ocean. The transformation of the park from a simple city park to a cultural hub reflects the city’s growth and development over the years.

7. Balboa Park Hosts World-Class Festivals

Throughout the year, Balboa Park is the venue for several world-class festivals and events. The most famous of these is the December Nights festival, held each year in early December. The event celebrates San Diego’s diverse cultures with food, music, dance performances, and cultural displays.

Another highlight is the annual Balboa Park Centennial Celebration, which marks significant historical milestones with exhibitions, concerts, and family-friendly activities. Visitors can also enjoy the San Diego County Fair, the largest event in the region, which features exhibits, concerts, and amusement rides.

8. The Park is Close to Several Popular San Diego Attractions

Balboa Park is ideally located near several other famous San Diego landmarks. A short drive or walk away is the Gaslamp Quarter, the city’s historic downtown area, known for its vibrant nightlife, dining, and shopping. Nearby is Petco Park, the home of the San Diego Padres, where visitors can catch a Major League Baseball game.

Additionally, Seaport Village, a waterfront shopping and dining area, offers visitors a beautiful view of the San Diego Bay. The close proximity to these attractions makes Balboa Park a perfect starting point for exploring the best of San Diego.

9. The Park Has Its Own Botanical Gardens

For nature enthusiasts, Balboa Park’s Botanical Building and Garden is a must-see attraction. The Botanical Building is one of the largest lath structures in the world and houses over 2,100 plants, including orchids, lilies, and palms. The adjacent lily pond creates a serene atmosphere, and the surrounding gardens are perfect for a stroll. Whether you’re interested in horticulture or simply looking to relax in a peaceful setting, the Botanical Building offers a unique experience within the park.

10. There’s Plenty of Parking Near the Park

One of the concerns visitors often have when visiting popular attractions is parking. Fortunately, Balboa Park has a variety of parking options. Multiple parking lots are scattered throughout the park, particularly near major attractions like the San Diego Zoo and the Natural History Museum. In addition to the parking lots, you can find street parking along Park Boulevard.

This convenient access ensures that visitors can easily drive in and out of the park, minimizing the hassle of finding a spot. For those traveling from downtown San Diego or the San Diego International Airport, getting to Balboa Park is a breeze, thanks to its central location and easy access via public transportation or a short drive.