Botanical Building and Lily Pond

As one of the most photographed parts of San Diego's famous Balboa Park, the Botanical Building and Lily Pond is considered a must-see destination for those visiting Southern California. The building was constructed for the 1915 Exposition and now features more than 2,100 plants. Varieties include palms, tropical plants, orchids, cycads, and ferns. Every year there are a variety of seasonal flower displays and the park and building are a popular destination during the winter holidays and during the spring. The building offers free admission Friday through Wednesday from 10 am until 4 pm. The surrounding gardens in Balboa Park features more than 1,200 acres of walking and exploring space filled with lush landscapes, flowers and trees. A number of cultural events are hosted in the park throughout the year. The gardens throughout the park include the Japanese Friendship Garden, the Alcazar Garden, the desert garden, and the rose garden which has won awards. Visitors to the park and Botanical Building can enjoy a stroll through the grounds and then dine at one of the restaurants in the area. Choose from the Café in the Park, the Dinosaur Café, the Flight Path Grill, Galileo's Café, the Home Plate Bar and Grill, and Lady Carolyn's Pub. On the grounds is also the Balboa Park Food and Wine School, a destination for those who want to learn about cooking and wine pairings before enjoying a picnic in the park.