
Famed horticulturist Kate Sessions - who was responsible for introducing several plant species to southern California - helped establish a two-acre plot within the park that features a wide range of palm species.
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While renowned Balboa Park is hardly a secret, given its abundance of museums, restaurants, and public art, there is a hidden corner of it that many locals don’t even know about. Visitors are encouraged to stop by (as long as they respect the Harpers’ space and home while they do). Their display includes countless bushes trimmed into the form of animals, geometric shapes, human figures, and more. Topiary is the practice of shaping shrubbery into whimsical shapes, and the Harpers have turned their front garden into one of the country’s finest exhibits of this botanical art. San Diego residents Alex and Edna Harper have spent years creating something truly special at their home in Mission Hills. It has remained in place as a favorite spot for locals to take a gently swaying stroll above the treetops. The bridge was built in 1912 in order to connect a newly built trolley stop to a residential area. Tucked away in the Banker’s Hill neighborhood, this pedestrian-only footpath spans nearly 400 feet across Sessions Canyon and sits 70 feet above it. This secret span is an adventure and a destination in one. Spruce Street Suspension Bridge (5.7 miles away)

And once you find one, you’re in for a renewed sense of childlike wonder. It’s a mystery! One thing’s for sure: The tracking-down of these carefree playground-style delights is often an enjoyable scavenger hunt. Sometimes they disappear for a while, only to reappear later - either in the same place or somewhere else entirely. These classic playground-style tree swings often afford some of the best views of any spot in town. San Diego’s “Hidden Swings” are the stuff of legend around here, and for good reason. Here are a few of the best hidden spots in San Diego. That said, San Diego also has its fair share of well-kept secrets - hidden gems that locals treasure, but that don’t always show up on “best of” lists aimed at attracting visitors. And don’t get us wrong - you should definitely make time to check those out during your visit. Must-sees like Balboa Park, SeaWorld, and the Gaslamp Quarter draw millions of visitors every year. Like many amazing American cities, San Diego gets a generous amount of praise for its incredible attractions. The bar is lit by 477 candle lights to mark each of the tombstones in the graveyard next door.A Local’s Guide to Hidden Spots in San Diego The bar is kept small and the details are under wraps in true prohibition-era style. You can expect a beautiful dimly-lit space with 25 seats for guests. Since Oculto 477 just opened, the decor and exact location are kept a secret. You’ll find it right in the heart of the charming Old Town part of San Diego. This candlelit hidden gem is just the place to be on a Saturday night. Since there is a dress code, call ahead and plan accordingly. Each speakeasy experience is limited to two hours and you can bring up to six people. Since Occulto 477 is a reservation-only bar, you will have to plan ahead and book your spot online. While the bar’s entryway remains hidden, we know it’s located somewhere inside of Tahona Bar, the first mezcal bar and tasting room in the city. Have you ever been to a speakeasy next door to a cemetery? This hidden prohibition style bar is San Diego’s newest drinking hot spot, Oculto 477.


This article’s cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.
