Strolling Balboa Park

100 Days of Camping Day #15

We have visited San Diego several times since we moved to California but had not yet made it to Balboa Park.  We were in for a real treat!  On Sunday we visited our aunt and uncle's church and afterwards went for a stroll to see what could be seen on a budget (aka, free).  It wouldn't have mattered anyway since everything was closed anyway, so most of the foot traffic was there to enjoy the buildings or coming to see a Shakespearean play happening in the dome theater. There was plenty of free parking and we only saw a fraction of what Balboa has to offer.  It was perfect weather for comfort and for pictures.

Often dubbed "The Smithsonian of the West", Balboa has a rich variety of museums to offer, a zoo, and (at least?) three theaters to share the arts.  There are a series of small houses representing different countries, "The House of Holland", "The House of Spain", and so on.

Peter's favorite attraction was the real airplanes on display outside.  The large one has a real titanium shell.  He couldn't get over how lucky he was to see it, since it was a REAL plane back in it's day and not just a copy.  Please forgive the blur on the first few pictures.  Luckily Michael snapped a few and noticed the lens needed to be cleaned.  haha.​

When I was taking pictures of the family on the crescent amphitheater stage, someone sitting in the audience seats hollered, "Sing something!"  So after a couple more clicks I joined them on stage and we all sang "Do, Re, Mi" from the Sound of Music.  The 20 or so people who happened to be nearby applauded loudly and my kids were on cloud nine knowing that had performed on a beautiful stage.  Especially Helen.

Balboa Park is a beautiful place!  I recommend spending time here during your San Diego visit, whether you are on a shoestring budget and go to see the exteriors, or are looking for more depth as there seems to be something here for everyone.  2015 is Balboa's centennial year, and they are having a variety of special events to celebrate.