Exploring this recreational paradise, which was nurtured from simple plaster beginnings as the site of the 1915 Panama-California International Exposition, requires a good block of time and an even better pair of shoes. Work your way through a sampling of museums and gardens, or stroll to whatever verdant corner you discover. Head for El Prado, the park's bustling energy center on eastern side, and then just go with the flow. One could spend days visiting this park's numerous museums, including the Museum of Man, the Fleet Space Theater and Science Center, and the Museum of Natural History. There are several art galleries such as the Timken Art Gallery and the Fine Arts Gallery.
Balboa Park is a great get-away place.
Many fitness enthusiasts enjoy the park for its velodrome and miles of jogging paths. The San Diego Zoo can be found on the northwest quadrant of Balboa Park, up Park Blvd. This is a great bargain for those who really like zoos or plan on accompanying friends and family when they come to San Diego. Just show your student I.D. at the San Diego Zoological Society's Booth near the entrance. The Wild Animal Park is located out on Highway I-15, towards the city of Escondido.