Balboa Park

Home to the renowned San Diego Zoo, this 1,200-acre park is the city's cultural hub. Located in the heart of downtown San Diego, Balboa Park is a great place for a stroll, a bike ride or a picnic. But if you find yourself growing antsy, there are plenty of attractions located here. Take in a show at the Old Globe Theatre or the Marie Hitchcock Puppet Theater or enjoy the arts at the Casa de Balboa -- which houses three separate art museums -- and the Spanish Village Art Center. If you've got the kids with you, take some time to check out the San Diego Air and Space Museum or the San Diego Model Railroad Museum.

The park is open every day of the year. Admission to the general grounds is free, but several individual attractions charge fees. If you're looking to save a little money, consider purchasing the Passport to Balboa Park ($83 for adults and $47 for kids) -- which offers entry into all the museums for seven days -- or the Stay-for-the-Day pass ($35), which covers any five attractions found here (excluding the zoo). For details, visit the Balboa Park website.