National Parks and Monuments around San Diego

San Diego Zoo

Tiger

The area around San Diego and the city itself are full of the beauty of nature. The finest examples of these are preserved in national parks in the city and the area surrounding it. From swaying palm trees to historic monuments, there are many places to experience the beauty and joy of the outdoors in this amazing city.

Balboa Park

Balboa Park is an amazing area. No other city in the nation can lay claim to a national park that doubles as a city park, nor the amazing amount of things to do within that park. Balboa Park is a 1,200 acre park that is part of the city of San Diego. Home to the San Diego Zoo and the Wildlife Park, the park is dotted with ornate Spanish style buildings. There are 15 museums to be found within the park as well as a pipe organ pavilion, botanical gardens and much more. There is an amazing theater, a carousel and the Balboa Park Miniature Train, as well.

Carlsbad Flower Garden

If you decide to visit LegoLand, you'll pass the Carlsbad Flower Garden. Even if you don't intend to visit the land of fun, a trip to this beautiful area is definitely in order. With over 50 acres of blooming Ranunculus, you will be able to experience some truly amazing natural beauty. The sight of those blazing acres is truly breathtaking. Unfortunately, the growing season is only a few months, so make sure to visit this area between March and May. You can even purchase souvenirs and blooming flowers to take home.

Coronado Island

Coronado Island is not truly an island. It is attached to the mainland by a small strip of sand, but it offers all the amenities that a true island getaway does. Half of the island is given over to the Naval Air Station, but the other half offers some great shopping opportunities and some truly wonderful homes. The relaxed, resort atmosphere and the quaint homes are a huge draw for visitors. Make sure to visit the Hotel del Coronado while you're there

Desert Garden

Technically part of Balboa Park, the wonderful Desert Garden is an amazing way to view the spectacular plant life that the surrounding desert offers. With more than 1,300 different types of native plants, you can get a great picture of what the surrounding natural beauty is like. With 2 ½ acres of beautiful plants, you can spend hours exploring the beauty found in the Desert Garden, for free.

You can find a variety of other great areas around San Diego. With many great offerings, it is easy to spend your entire trip doing nothing but basking in the beauty and history that these parks offer. There are also a number of historical points of interest around the area, many of them centered around Balboa Park. If you are looking for a great way to experience nature while in San Diego, visit a few of these parks and have a great time.