Cultural Center in La Playa

"Located in Balboa Park, the Japanese Friendship Garden is a relaxing spot to spend an afternoon in San Diego. The garden was built to represent the friendship between San Diego and its sister city in Japan, Yokohama, and provides a unique and chilled out experience for visitors. Besides its zen atmosphere and impressive garden and architecture designs, the Japanese Friendship Garden hosts regular events throughout the year, such as yoga classes, meditation sessions, and the San Diego Sake Day."

"The elegant Japanese Friendship Garden is also worth a visit. Grab lunch at The Prado, located within Balboa Park., and try to get a table on the outdoor terrace."

"The Garden originated as a teahouse during the 1915–16 Panama-California Exposition and now lies on two acres near the Spreckels Organ Pavilion."

"The House of Pacific Relations International Cottages showcases the traditions of 34 national groups, some of which have their own cottages (build originally for the 1935 Exposition). The goal is to promote multicultural understanding through exhibits and programming. (Location: Balboa Park)"

"The Chuck Jones Gallery honors the legendary animator, Chuck Jones with over 300 animated films behind his name, and some of the finest artists, animation, and entertainment art in the world. In a career ranging more than 60 years, Jones made more than 300 animated films, winning three Oscars as director and in 1996 an honorary Oscar for Lifetime Achievement."

"I’ve long lost track of the number of hours I’ve spent working from here. Located in a converted home, this casual coffee shop is loved by people who have some work or studying to do. Although it can get quite crowded downstairs, you’ll normally be able to find a quiet spot upstairs."

"There was a party of 6 that sat next to us and they were extremely loud and abnoxious. We ended up having to get out dessert..."

"A tribute to the French neighborhood cafés that serve as the center of social and culinary life, Little Frenchie is a charming Parisian-style bistro and sidewalk cafe that locals and visitors have fallen in love with since it’s opening in May 2019. The produce is regionally sourced, and seafood is obtained from local area fishermen. Everything here is fun, fancy, and fresh."

"Francophiles will love this chic new Parisian style bistro and its culinary ode to Provençe – think escargot, steak frites, fromage, plus French beers and wines. Leading the kitchen is executive chef Matt Sramek who worked under Thomas Keller at Bouchon in Beverly Hills. Now open early on the weekends there’s a morning menu until 11 a.m."

"No need to cross the Atlantic when you can stop into this casual Parisian-style cafe on Orange Avenue. They’re known for a wide selection of delectable cheese and classic dishes like escargots, steak frites, quiche, and croque monsieur. The menu features suggested pairings from their approachable list of French and California wines."

"Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account. View this post on Instagram. A post shared by Le Parfait Paris (@le_parfait_paris) on May 11, 2019 at 8:26am PDT"