Historic Marston House

On our list of the best activities in San Diego.

Irving Gill and William Hebbard designed this Arts and Crafts residence in 1905 for George Marston, the businessman who funded much of Balboa Park's landscaping. Five acres of rolling lawns, formal gardens, and canyon paths surround the 8,500-square-foot house, whose redwood-paneled rooms and terrace doors reflect Gill's restrained, Prairie-influenced style. Save Our Heritage Organisation, the nonprofit that operates the property today, runs docent-led tours lasting about 45 minutes, departing every half hour on weekend mornings and afternoons. Specialty tours cover the gardens and the surrounding Bankers Hill neighborhood as well.