Whether you’ve lived in San Diego forever or just moved into a condo in downtown San Diego, there are a number of fun facts you probably didn’t know about Balboa Park.
1. It Was Originally Called “City Park”
Back in 1868, Alonzo Horton (no connection to the Dr. Seuss character) convinced the city to use 1,400 acres of public land for a park, and officials named it “City Park.” Luckily, park commissioners thought the land deserved a more creative name and eventually changed it to Balboa Park, after Vasco Nunez de Balboa who, in 1910, was the first Europeans to set eyes on the Pacific.
2. The Park Is Bigger Than Central Park
It’s hard to believe, but our very own Balboa Park is actually bigger than the more famous Central Park in New York City. Even more surprising is Balboa Park is nearly double the acreage. Central park only has 842 acres.
3. It Was Home to a Nudist Colony
That’s right, a nudist colony. A nudist colony called Zoro Garden once resided where the butterfly gardens now are. In fact, the colony was quite the attraction during the park’s second expo held in 1935, although some people think it wasn’t a nudist colony so much as performance artists.
4. Big Music Acts Played Here
Surprise! Both the Rolling Stones and The Beatles played at Balboa Park. The Stones played at the Balboa Park Bowl, which is now known as The (defunct) Starlight Bowl. And The Beatles played their only San Diego show at the Balboa Stadium in 1965.
5. It Was Used in the World Wars
The park was used in both World Wars, and during the second World War all other plans for the park were put on hold. The grounds and buildings were renamed for an admiral killed at Pearl Harbor and were used as a hospital, living quarters, and for training among other things.
Balboa Park is just one of the many cool spots in the city, but you probably already know that. If you’ve decided to make San Diego your permanent residence, reach out to 92101 Urban Living. Our friendly and experienced real estate agents in downtown San Diego can help you figure out which neighborhood is right for you and find the perfect place to call home. Reach out today by calling (619) 649-0638 and setting up an appointment! ')}