Balboa Park
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Balboa Park Administration Courtyard Park
Tip of the Week: October 18, 2008
"Always remember the beauty of the garden, for there is peace." - Author Unknown
Just when you think you know everything there is to know there is more to find out. We created San Diego Travel Tips.com because we love to explore and find those hidden corners of San Diego.
Some follow their gut. Some follow their nose. In this case, we followed some dogs and their noses to a place even we didn't know about. What a treat to be doggedly led by the four-legged trio to this spot, the Balboa Park Administration Building Courtyard.
The Balboa Park Administration Building Courtyard. Say it again. How could anything with that name remotely suggest that it is something to be seen. Lousy name. Gorgeous place. Ah, bureaucracy.
High on the hill behind the Veteran's Memorial Center and Museum is the Park's Administration Building. The area is known as Inspiration Point. The old building keeps watch on the park from its lofty perch masking what lies just on the other side. Behind it is a gem. Just south of the Balboa Park Activity Center, this courtyard sits between the Administration Building and the U.S. Navy Hospital - Balboa. This courtyard is definitely one of the best kept secrets in San Diego.
Balboa Park
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With grand swaths of grass, fountains, pergolas, and long contemplative walkways, it is hard to believe that one of the prettiest places in all of Balboa Park is unknown to the public. Alas, it took Dewey, Katy, and Peeker, to show us the way. Naturally, with the dogs leading the way, we were stopped all along the way to take nothing for granted. Dogs know, instinctively, what people often overlook. It is the journey, not the end of the walk they enjoy. We were so taken with this courtyard that we found ourselves needing to go back. It was even more special the second time.
Balboa Park -View of Coronado Bridge
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Pick a picture perfect day and check it out. The viewing corridors are only enhanced by the gorgeous clear skies. Come the Fall, you'll find pomegranate bushes blooming with fruit everywhere. The pomegranate season runs from September - January. Like the pomegranate, with this "tip" you have to get beyond the exterior to taste the sweet ruby-red arils (seeds). Take the time to step back behind the Balboa Park Administration Building to find the Courtyard and get a taste of this sweet treasure.
TIP: You can also catch the free Balboa Park tram to the Balboa Park Administration Building Courtyard.
Directions: Balboa Park Adminstration Building Courtyard
Map
Park Blvd. to President's Way (turn east away from the park) into the large parking lot. Turn left at the Tram Stop. Park. Walk up the slight hill to the right of the Veteran's Memorial, cross the road (Inspiration Pt. Drive) and walk up behind the tall Administration Building.
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