One of the early Mexican settlements in San Diego was a military installation, now Presidio Park (2811 Jackson St., 619/692-4918).
The Junípero Serra Museum (2727 Presidio Dr., 619/297-3258, daily 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m., adults $5, seniors $4, children $2) sits inside the park, on the spot where Father Junipero Serra and Captain Gaspar de Portola established the Presidio fort. Its collections include housewares, artifacts, and a cannon from the Mexican occupation through the early California period of San Diego [1] through 1929.
If you prefer nature with your history, take a stroll along the more than two miles of trails winding through the acres of gardens and wild areas of the park. Palm Canyon [2] features lawns surrounded by stately old palm trees.
The Arbor has a more formal garden feel, complete with pillars and flowers. It’s hard to believe as you wander the charming parkland that you’re on the site of a former military base.
Links:
[1] http://www.moon.com/destinations/california/san-diego
[2] http://www.moon.com/destinations/california/san-diego/sights/balboa-park-and-hillcrest/palm-canyon