Popular Gardens in Imperial Beach

"Families appreciate the beauty and abundance of recreational opportunities at Balboa Park. This expansive outdoor space includes 17 museums, playgrounds, a swimming pool, and over a dozen different gardens. Many visitors come here to enjoy the Pepper Grove Playground, a large kids' recreation area with slides, swings, a jungle gym, sandbox, playing fields, and picnic tables."

"This 1,400-acre site encompasses historical buildings, numerous museums, gardens, and green space. The park was created for the Panama California Exhibition of 1915-1916, and most of the buildings remain from that event. The predominant architecture is Spanish-style, with low-rise buildings that blend in with the natural surroundings."

"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."

"Feel the beauty of the waterfalls and greenery as you stroll the pathways of the Japanese Friendship Garden. Skip right past the entrance fee the third Tuesday of every month. As well, explore the Japanese rock garden and take in the current indoor display."

"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."

"Study humankind at the San Diego Museum of Man, marvel at aeronautic engineering in the San Diego Air and Space Museum, then catch your breath in the Botanical Building. Head up to North Park for happy hour at Polite Provisions; its beautiful cocktail lounge may hook you up with some small plates if you’re hungry. Save the appetite, though—North Park’s Restaurant Row is nearby."

"The Botanical Building houses more than 2,000 tropical plants. Capturing the wood structure with the lily pond in front is one of the most photographed sections of Balboa Park."

"Located in Balboa Park, this place deserves its own spot on my list of Instagrammable places in San Diego!. Cacti are super photo-worthy, and that San Diego sunshine will give you the perfect lighting for an epic photo. (PS. Check out this post on how to pose for Instagram photos!)"

"Sushi might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a family restaurant. However, if you were to ask my daughter and her friends what their favorite spot is right now they would say Kura. It’s a gamified revolving sushi restaurant where the more plates you empty, the happier the “ninja” is."

"What to know: Prior to the pandemic, wait times were very long for Kura. Now, lines are very short if any as they have a large outdoor dining area!. Also, spaces between tables actually allow for a 6 foot distance between parties."

"Trendsetters and tastemakers have flocked to Miso Harney Sushi since the day it opened without slowing down. The ultra-cool vibe inside is set off by the rich red walls and marble counter tops.[Learn more]"

"Harney Sushi’s funky, experimental vibe puts it at the top of any list of best sushi in San Deigo. The creative, exciting menu features some riffs on classic favorites and new takes on what sushi can be."

"If staying in the mix downtown is your vacay of choice, make it an extended weekend by checking in to The Westgate Hotel on a Thursday afternoon to enjoy the Sunset Poolside Jazz Series on the rooftop pool deck. Rise and shine and head to the AquaVie Fitness + Wellness Club, which is adjacent to The Westgate. Incorporating organic skin care and body treatments, its holistic ethos purifies the body and restores balance."

"302 E Broadway, Vista 92084 Although there are various brewing locations throughout the city of San Diego, Belching Beaver decided to put its Tavern Grill in the heart of North County’s brewing hub in Vista. The tavern is a rustic indoor/outdoor patio with fire pits and two spacious hangout areas, both of which your furry friend is welcome to join you in. The tavern offers lunch Wednesday through Sunday, and dinner Monday through Friday, with a weekday Happy Hour."

"The most popular Belching Beaver beer, the Peanut Butter Milk Stout. Photo credit: Belching Beaver Brewery. This brewery has one of the most unique flavored stouts and a lively atmosphere."

"JuneShine’s honey-brewed hard kombucha is offering same day pick-up between the hours of 11am-7pm daily at their North Park (order online here) and Scripps Ranch (order online here) location. Or get home delivery by ordering online (free shipping for orders over $50)."