The Spreckels Organ Pavilion is one of the most unique attractions inside the Balboa Park in San Diego, California. It is a historic outdoor music venue. It is home to one of the largest outdoor pipe organs in the world, the Spreckels Organ, which was built in 1914 for the Panama-California Exposition and has been played in the pavilion ever since.
The pavilion was designed by architect Harrison Albright and opened in 1915 as part of the Panama-California Exposition. It was built to showcase the Spreckels Organ and provide a venue for concerts and other performances. The pavilion features an ornate, Spanish Colonial Revival-style design with a large, arched stage and seating for up to 2,500 people.
The Spreckels Organ, which is the centerpiece of the pavilion, has over 5,000 pipes and is one of the largest outdoor pipe organs in the world. It was built by the famous organ builder, Austin Organs, and was originally powered by water from the San Diego River. Today, it is powered by an electric blower and has been restored and expanded several times over the years.
The pavilion hosts regular concerts and performances throughout the year, including weekly organ concerts on Sundays, which are free to the public. It is also a popular venue for weddings, graduations, and other special events.
In addition to its musical offerings, the pavilion is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is located in the heart of Balboa Park, which is home to numerous museums, theaters, and other cultural attractions. On Sunday and Monday nights, free concerts are held at the pavilion. Visitors can enjoy a stroll through the park, visit one of the nearby museums, or simply relax and enjoy the music in the beautiful outdoor setting.
Address.
1549 El Prado #10, San Diego, California 92101
Hours.
Sunday concerts at 2:00pm
Mid-June through August International Summer Organ Festival concerts, Monday nights, 7:30pm
Also: See other attractions inside Balboa Park.
Here is the 360-degree photo I took.
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See also: My other travel adventures in the USA.
See also: List of National Parks.
