Balboa Park, a green space set aside in 1835 and site of several international expositions, covers 1,200 acres (490 ha) with gardens, walking space, green belts, museums, theaters and, most of all, the San Diego Zoo. It is named after the Spanish explorer credited with being the first European to see the Pacific Ocean although a considerable distance south in Panama. Downtown, Parkers Hill, North Park and Golden Hill are old neighborhoods around the park. Factoid: The Beatles and the Rolling Stones both played venues in the park.

balboapark.org