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Botanical Building and Lily Pond

Botanical Building and Lily Pond
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© Ashley Steig / Griffith Jurgens
Type of Site
City Parks & Gardens, Buildings & Monuments
Neighborhood
Downtown
Interests That Apply
Outdoors, Photography
More information here...
Price: Free
Is there parking?: Yes
Wheelchair Accessible: Partial
Mobility Obstacles: Stairs
Water/Drinks: NOT available at this site or nearby.
Eating: This is NOT a good place to get a meal or snack.
Restrooms: Available
Notes: Restrooms are available throughout Balboa Park.
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Botanical Building and Lily Pond

Plants Abound


Off The Beaten Path

Address: Phone:
El Prado
(Balboa Park)
San Diego, CA 92101
+1 619 239 0512

Description

This beautiful building was constructed in 1915-16 for the World's Fair Exposition. There are over 2,100 permanent plants housed here; collections include orchids, ferns, palms, and other stunning tropical plants. Seasonal plant exhibitions also rotate through the building, so there's always a good variety of things to see. While you're at the Botanical Building, be sure to check out Lily Pond, which is considered one of the most picturesque areas of the city. Two ponds make up this gorgeous spot, "La Laguna" and "La Lagunita", and they're surrounded by lilies and lotus flowers. The Botanical Building and Lily Pond are great places to visit for quiet seclusion and a peaceful stroll.


What you should know before visiting Botanical Building and Lily Pond

Times & Dates

Open Hours: 10am-4pm, Fri-Weds
Visit Time: 30min-1hr
Best Time to Visit: Visit on weekdays before noon.
Why Best: Crowds are smaller.
Average Wait Time: None
Notes: Your time spent will depend on your fondness for plants.
Price: Free

Exposure

Outdoor with some covering. Notes: The building is made of woven wooden lath strips, so rain comes through it.

Age Recommendations/Requirements

Ages Admitted: All Ages
Ages that would most enjoy this site: Adult
Groups that would most enjoy this site: Couples, Families, Friends, Groups, Solo Travelers

Transportation

Best Modes of Transportation: Automobile/Car Bicycle Bus
Parking Availability: Yes
Average Price per Hour: Free
Notes: There's ample parking in Inspiration Point parking lot (on the east side of Park Blvd, between President's Way and the Balboa Park Activity Center). Numerous smaller lots are available throughout the Park. Valet parking is available Tues-Sun evenings.


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