Here's our list of the best parks to visit in San Diego.
Photo by Jon Doerr Jr/ Unsplash
A wilderness island in an urban sea, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve on Torrey Pines Road is home to the nation’s rarest pine tree, Pinus torreyana. Not only does the park preserve the trees, but it's also one of the last waterfowl refuges and salt marshes in the Southern California area. Hike one of a number of trails, take a guided tour through nature, visit the on-site museum, try your hand at geocaching or get involved in a family program.
Photo by Zane Persaud/ Unsplash
Home to more than 16 museums, multiple hiking trails, arts venues, lush gardens and other recreational activities, Balboa Park is bringing you an elite combination of science, culture and nature. Located on El Prado and set on 1,200 acres, the park is not short on activities to keep you and your family entertained for the day. Wait and watch for birds, visit the Japanese Friendship Garden, stroll around in the Museum of Us or the San Diego Model Railroad Museum, take in sights of the grounds' architecture, or hop over to the San Diego Zoo.
Mission Hills Park, so named after its location in Mission Hills, is also known as Pioneer Park. This spot originally served as one of the first cemeteries in San Diego, as many of the tombstones and graves of San Diego pioneers still remain at the park. Today, Mission Hills offers a large grassy space perfect for a day in the sun. Additionally, tennis courts can be found across the street from the main park.
What better way to spend your next summer day than by cooling off at the most significant waterfront open space in downtown San Diego? Residents and visitors are invited to come take a splash at Waterfront Park, an interactive splash fountain experience sure to keep your excitement high and temperature low. The park hosts a number of diverse spaces to accommodate both public and private events, such as festivals, farmers markets and weddings.
We’re going to let you in on a little-known secret—that is, if you like one-of-a-kind parks. Head down to Civita Park, a huge green space area perfect for strolling around, doing some sprints or relaxing under a shady spot. It’s something we like to call a hidden San Diego treasure, but after one visit, you’ll be spreading the word.
A 3.1-acre neighborhood park, Olympus Park located in Leucadia, is filled with a number of amenities, including whimsical playgrounds, a zip line, a dog park, basketball and pickleball courts, a pump track for bikes, skateboards and scooters and a small skate element. Additionally, the park features walking paths, a serene botanical garden and a gazebo. The establishment of the new park included the planting of 76 new trees, proving the addition of Olympus Park to the community was both a win for the environment and the people.
You’re invited to spend an afternoon (or morning) at the park, boasting stunning views of Otay Lake and a multitude of outdoor pastimes. A favorite spot in the South Bay, Otay Lakes County Park is set on 78 acres of San Diego soil. Offerings at the park include a spacious playground, hiking trails, a grassy area, horseshoe pits, and a native plant and demonstration garden. With something to keep every member of the family entertained, Otay Lakes promises to give you a top-notch outdoor experience.
Situated in none other than stunning Del Mar, San Dieguito County Park is located a short distance from the Pacific Ocean and offers recreational activities for all to enjoy. The park hosts five miles of hiking trails, five playgrounds, a baseball field, a wedding gazebo, a basketball court, picnic areas and pavilions, as well as BBQ areas. Look out from Activity Hill to discover scenic views—and while you’re there, venture to any of 10 fitness stations, three hillside ladders and lookout platforms, two track trails for kids and two suspension bridges. Here in Del Mar, the opportunities are endless, but you’ll just have to see for yourself.
If you’ve ever visited La Jolla Shores beach, you’ve seen the large grassy area known as Kellogg Park. Serving as an ideal spot to let kids run and play, the park is open every day from sunrise to sunset and will be waiting for you to visit on an upcoming summer weekend.
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