Popular Gardens in Lake Murray

"Balboa Park is a 1,200-acre cultural destination a few minutes by car from Downtown San Diego that suits a variety of travel styles. Each of the 16 museums are fantastic in their own right and some are enumerated separately on this list, such as the kid-friendly favorites including Fleet Science Center and San Diego Natural History Museum. Culture enthusiasts may want to step into the San Diego Museum of Art or Museum of Photographic Arts."

"Balboa Park is more than just a green space in the city — it’s a cultural oasis — home to more than 17 museums, theaters, and the famous San Diego Zoo. There are several playgrounds and a miniature railroad to keep the kids entertained, and various restaurants and cafes to grab a bite to eat. The iconic botanical building is a lovely visit with thousands of plants and a lilypond."

"A post shared by Daniel Deming (@grubyoface619) on May 10, 2016 at 9:44pm PDT. Wander through the attractions in Balboa Park before you make your way to The Prado. This full-service restaurant is perfect for a relaxing dinner where you can spend quality time together."

"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."

"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 lath building was built for the 1915-1916 Exposition and now houses over 2100 tropical plants and palms (I recommend it if you like orchids). It is open every day except for Thursdays and one of the most photographed spots in San Diego. You can picnic on the grassy areas in front of it, too."

"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!)"

"Rock Bottom Restaurant and Brewery is a welcoming and engaging craft beer experience with a variety of unique craft beer freshly brewed on site to pair with our popular American crave-able food like our Brewery Nachos Bacon Chicken Mac n’ Cheese, Fish and Chips and Bacon Cheddar Burger."

"Location: 16765 Bernardo Center Dr, San Diego, CA 92128Phone: (858) 673-7512Website. A vintage wine bar and bistro in Rancho Bernardo, this popular casual eatery is well-loved, and one of our very favorite hangouts. Wines here are superb, and patrons can order by the bottle, glass, or flight."

"Little guppies can splash about this fountain found on the lower level at Del Mar Highlands Town Center. Grab a cup of coffee or delicious frozen yogurt and sit down at the nearby seating to enjoy the kid fun; don't worry seating is outside of the splash zone!. Even more, when done you can check out One Paseo across the street with cute shops and good eats."

"In the northern San Diego suburb of Del Mar is the Del Mar Highlands Town Center. It’s located on Del Mar Heights Road, just off of the 5 freeway. The mall is roughly a 30-minute drive north of downtown San Diego."

"12925 El Camino Real San Diego, CA 92130 858-793-5757 Hours vary by retailer Major Retailers: Searsucker, Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas, Ralphs, Jimbo's, Mendocino Farms and specialty shops"

"Situated in an unassuming strip mall in Sabre Springs (west of Poway), Nutmeg has racked up its healthy share of local fans. Serving Caffe Calabria coffee, seasonal foods (breakfast, brunch, and lunch), gluten-free and vegan menu items, and sweet delights from its vast pastry case, Nutmeg makes culinary and coffee magic happen in an industrial-like, open space with bar seating, booth areas, and tables situated next to outlets. If you’re looking for an office away from home, Nutmeg is it."

"Enjoy a classic Italian dinner at our onsite restaurant, Manhattan of La Jolla that offers a wide-ranging menu of pastas, steaks, and seafood in a romantic setting. Savor a delicious Caesar salad made tableside, homemade eggplant parmigiana, or just relax with a glass of fine wine. Don't feel like eating out?"

"7660 Fay Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037(858) 274-1733Save Your Seat ASAP$$ | Bakery | Brunch Restaurant. This awesome spot is home to Food Network’s Chef Maeve. She won Holiday Baking Championship and has been featured on other Food Network shows."