Balboa Park - Welcome to the cultural center of the city, Balboa park opens up the element of nature as well as the mind. Featuring the California Tower, which stands 200-hundred feet tall, and houses 100 bell carillon which fills the air with it's vibrating chimes every fifteen minutes. Housed within the park are various museums:
The Botanical Building
The Hall of Champions Sports Museum
The House of Pacific Relations International Cottages Inc.
The Japanese Friendship Garden
The Museum of Photographic Arts
The Museum of San Diego History
The Reuben H. Fleet Space Theater and Science Center
The San Diego Aerospace Museum
The San Diego Model Railroad Museum
The San Diego Museum of Art
The San Diego Museum of Man
The San Diego Natural History Museum
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Birch Aquarium at Scripps - Huge glass aquariums offer fabulous views of some of the world's most rare and exotic sea creatures. From their new exhibit of marine life from the Sea of Cortez, to their petting pool; the museum offers something for everyone. A bookshop is located on the site, which offers everything from educational aids to souvenirs from the sea. Interstate 5 to La Jolla Drive exit to the entrance on Expedition Way. Mon-Sun 9-5, everyday (closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day).
2300 Expedition Way
858-534-FISH
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San Diego Zoo - Whimsical Creatures and festive flora line the paths of this internationally famous zoo. Over 4,000 animals live at the zoo; in various aviaries, rivers and forests. Moving sidewalks and an aerial tramway provide transpiration through the colorful terrain of the zoo. Interstate 5 to Pershing Drive exit, then follow the signs. Mon-Sun 9-? (closing times vary according to season), 365 days a year. $15, children 3-11 $6.
2920 Zoo Drive
858-231-0251
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Sea World - An educational marine extravaganza, Sea World provides fun for the entire family. Situated on the southern shore of Mission Bay, the park offers daily shows and rides; as well as a playground with a tropical theme. Amidst the penguins, sharks, dolphins and other marine creatures that inhabit the park are the infamous killer whales; Shamu and Baby Shamu. Exit west from Interstate 5 onto Sea World Drive. Mon-Sun 9- ? (closing time may vary) , mid-June - Labor Day. Mon-Sun 10-? (closing time may vary), rest of the year. $30.95, children 3-11 $20.95, adults over 55 $26.20.
500 SeaWorld Drive
858-226-3901
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San Diego Aerospace Museum - Experience aircraft from fighters to spy planes. Located within the museum is the International Aerospace Hall of Fame, where heroic pilots and innovative engineers are celebrated. Located in the Ford Building. Mon-Sun 10-4:30 (closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day). $5, juniors 6-17 $1, children 6 & under FREE, military FREE.
2001 Pan American Plaza, Balboa Park
858-234-8291
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San Diego Museum of Art - The interior of the timeless building is robed in Portuguese royal finery and adorned with oil paintings, watercolors, and drawings. Works done by Harry Sternberg and Ammi Phillips are a few of the artists featured in the museum. Located in the center of Balboa Park. Tues-Sun 10-4:30. $6.00, students 6-17 $2.00, seniors 65 & above $5.00, military (with ID) $4.00, children 5 & under FREE.
1450 El Prado, Balboa Park
858-232-7931
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