Balboa Botanical Building
3 Reviews
Hello everyone! This is a friendly reminder that any of these fun places we may visit, we are a guest at. Please treat both businesses and trails with the utmost respect. We here at Hidden San Diego follow the 'Leave no Trace' mantra, meaning whatever you bring with you comes back with you. If you see trash on a trail, please do your part to help remove it. Remember, we are not picking up trash from another person but instead cleaning up for Mother Nature. Happy adventures!
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1549 El Prado
San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 239-0512
32.732508, -117.149213
Hours: Free to the public on Friday through Wednesday, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Closed Thursdays and holidays).
Dog-Friendly: Yes Kid-Friendly: Yes
**Make sure to check out our article of all HIDDEN GEMS IN BALBOA PARK for an amazing day trip!**
About Balboa’s Botanical Garden
The view of Balboa’s Botanical Building with the Lily Pond and Lagoon in the foreground is one of the most photographed scenes in Balboa Park and a “must-see” destination in San Diego. Built for the 1915-16 Exposition, along with the adjacent Lily Pond and Lagoon, the historic building is one of the largest lath structures in the world.
While you’re in the area, make sure to check out the Marston House & Garden Nearby!
The Botanical Building plantings include more than 2,100 permanent plants, featuring fascinating collections of cycads, ferns, orchids, other tropical plants and palms. The Botanical Building also presents some of the Park’s vibrant seasonal flower displays
Personal Experience
If you are a photographer, lover of nature, beauty and/or fresh air, then you must check out the botanical building at least once! This beautiful building can be seen is movies such as National Lampoon’s Dorm Daze. This building was built in 1915-1916. The Botanical Building plantings include more than 2,100 permanent plants. This is a beautiful, tropical oasis!
And a fun little tip: Did you know the Reflection Pool in Balboa Park was used as a swimming pool during World War I and II? During World War I, it was used to teach sailors to swim. During World War II, it was used as a rehabilitation pool. Awesome!
These last 3 photos are by Kayla Brooke:
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Grecia
I absolutely love the botanical garden! It’s a great place to sit down and enjoy a picnic. During the weekend there are many artists and musicians that hang out around the garden.
March 8, 2014
embo
The girls that work there take such pride in their work…What’s up Dawn!!!
April 11, 2014
Juan Miguel Rodriquez Lopez
That is the same tunnel gaze rug went to stupids.
April 18, 2017