Explore the cultural heart of San Diego.

SAN DIEGO ZOO
The San Diego Zoo is undoubtedly one of the most well-known zoos in the world. It is home to almost 4,000 animals, including over 650 species, and was the first zoo in North America to create cageless exhibits that attempted to replicate natural habitats. It also houses the only two giant pandas in the United States and was the first American zoo to successfully breed them.

EL PRADO
El Prado is the major walkway through Balboa Park, serving as one of San Diego’s most popular public places. It’s home to several of the park’s cultural nearby attractions, including the Museum of Man, Museum of Art, Old Globe Theater, and other structures along the boulevard. El Prado is a lovely public space that locals are happy to call their own thanks to its Spanish Moor style construction and lush vegetation.

BOTANICAL BUILDING
The Botanical Building’s unusual lattice-like design and proximity to the Lily Pond have made it one of Balboa Park’s most photographed locations. One of the world’s largest lath structures remains one of the Panama-California Exposition’s buildings, which was built in 1915. There are more than 2,100 plants, as well as seasonal displays and a scratch-and-sniff garden that appeal to kids of all ages in the free-of-charge attraction.

SPANISH VILLAGE ART CENTER
The Spanish Village Art Center is located in the midst of a labyrinth of tiled buildings that were constructed in 1935. The lively courtyard houses a community of over 200 professional artists from a variety of specialisms who provide daily demonstrations of their skills.

SPRECKELS ORGAN PAVILION
The Spreckels Organ Pavilion is named for John and Adolph Spreckels, the individuals who funded the world’s biggest outdoor pipe organ. The instrument has over 5,000 pipes and the longest is 32 feet long. Since 1917, San Diego has employed civic organists to perform free concerts every Sunday at 2 p.m. Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa guests are welcome to use all of the pavilion’s entertainment features as one of San Diego’s top Balboa park hotels.