Balboa Park

adventure out of their apartment. Perched at the top of a hill with gorgeous views of San Diego, the park is long and wide, with plenty of accessible parking. It is a one day, or several day visit to see the entire park. Centrally located in San Diego, it should be easy for most apartment-ites to get there by auto or bus.

Seasonal events, including a performance of the Dr. Seuss "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" at the Old Globe stage, and a huge poinsettia display during December enrich the experience of the park. Pick a Sunday in June through August, when you can enjoy a free concert on the one of the world's largest outdoor organs in the Spreckel's Organ Pavillion that houses four thousand, five hundred and thirty pipes. Sometimes you might visit when the very talented city staffed organist is practicing. You might also catch a mime, a comedian or a magician strutting his stuff on the park grounds.

When not visiting the museums or the zoo, enjoy the old-fashioned carousel or miniature railroad, the San Diego United Nations of building, the photographic arts building, and many arts and crafts shops populated by local artists. Eat at a café, from a coffee cart or snack cart, or dine in one of the beautiful restaurants featuring everything from burgers and pizza to steak and salmon.

If you'd like a memorable experience over more than one day - up to seven - you can purchase a "Passport" to visit 13 of the paid attractions for only $35, a savings of $55. Just go to the visitor center at the park or one of the participating museums. It will pay off to start off your visit to the park with a trip to the visitor's center to be informed of all the opportunities for fun and enjoyment at Balboa Park.

Your adventure here could easily turn into an all day event, so be prepared with sun screen, tennis shoes, and a smile on your face to see some of the coolest stuff that can be found outside of your San Diego apartment.

Like Balboa park so much, you'd like to live close by? Check out the apartments in the area among the list below. There is bound to be one that meets your fancy!