Balboa Park Historical Tour + Coffee
Have you ever wanted the inside historical scoop on Balboa Park – with some LGBT intrigue – from a true expert? Then don’t miss this unique chance to hear first-hand from Balboa Park expert, Ross Porter. He’ll take us on an easy, shaded, and entertaining 2.5-hour stroll through the Prado and Palisades areas, where the Expositions were held in 1915 and 1935.
You’ll hear about:
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3 big fires that altered the course of the park’s history
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1935 nudist colony in the Zoro Garden and the Harvey Milk bench
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Gay artisans whose images transformed the visitor experience
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Amazing women whose participation changed San Diego’s culture
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Architects Bertram Goodhue, Richard Requa, William Templeton Johnson, and others
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Future plans for park buildings and gardens
It’ll be a leisurely pace, with plenty of shade and bathroom breaks. And for those who’d like to hang out and continue the conversation afterwards, we’ll end the tour in the beautiful Spanish Village, grabbing something to drink and perhaps a snack or lunch.
More info on tour guide Ross:
Ross’ lifelong connection with the park includes a ten-year stint as executive director of the Spreckels Organ Society and service as president (2022-2024) of the all-volunteer Committee of 100, devoted to the park’s historic preservation.
In high school, he got a job putting out the brass rings on the Balboa Park Carousel. During college, he ran an elevator at the U.S. Grant Hotel and was a tour guide on the San Diego Harbor Cruise.
Hike Start Time and Location: 0845 @ the Bea Evanson Fountain (by the Fleet Science Center)
Hike Length: 1.5mi (more stroll than hike)
Hike Difficulty Rating: easy
Estimated Hike Time: 2.5 Hours
Hike Type (out-and-back, loop, shuttle): area tour/out and back
Parking Information: Several Balboa park lots including Natural History Museum and the main park lots
Costs involved: possibly parking, any snacks or drinks purchased
Pets Permitted: well behaved leashed dogs welcome
What to Bring in Addition to the 10 Essentials*: We recommend bringing water, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes – and a curious mind!
Who to Contact with Questions: Trip Leader Brent Sammons [email protected]
Great Outdoors San Diego EDI Statement
Great Outdoors San Diego and our members enjoy the privilege of using the outdoors for recreation. We strive to include more of our community, especially those historically not included. Please encourage your friends, neighbors, and community members to come out and join us! If something is holding them back, please contact GOSD to explore accommodations including equipment available for lend or sponsorships for events.
