Last updated on September 27th, 2025
Looking for something truly unique and cool to do at Balboa Park in San Diego? You won’t want to miss the House of the Pacific Relations International Cottages.
Did you know there’s a little slice of Epcot right in San Diego? Well, way better, actually. Much like exploring Epcot’s World Showcase at Walt Disney World (but smaller, cheaper, and without the lines), you can experience all the culture and authentic tastes of nearly three dozen countries from around the globe right in San Diego.
The House of Pacific Relations International Cottages inside Balboa Park are a bit of a hidden gem, but absolutely worth a visit if you are in San Diego over a weekend.
Built in 1935 as part of the California Pacific International Exposition (there are some new houses, as well), the exposition cottages now open every weekend to “promote multicultural goodwill and understanding through educational and cultural programs.”
You can wander through and check out the exhibits, take part in activities (we saw kids making a cool craft inside the Poland cottage while we were there), learn about their cultural heritage, and meet the volunteers dressed in traditional costumes for each country.
Simply said, each of the Balboa Park international cottages is like a mini-museum showcasing its country’s vibe and history.
To be very honest some of the displays are kind of kitschy, but they are all authentic and interesting. You can even grab ethnic foods and little snacks for the low, low price of a dollar donation.
House of Pacific Relations International Cottages
The cottages are located in Balboa Park, along a stretch between the Aerospace Museum and San Diego Automotive Museum and the Spreckels Organ Pavilion (all great attractions to check out, as well!).
The cottages are open to the public every Saturday and Sunday afternoon between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. It is totally free to enjoy. In fact, there is no cost to visit Balboa Park – although some of the attractions do have an entrance fee – making it one of the best free things to do in San Diego with kids any time of year!
On select Saturday and Sunday afternoons between March and mid-November, there are Lawn Programs and other special events held on the outdoor stage in the afternoon. Each Lawn Program is hosted by a member house and includes music, dance, costumes, and arts representing their culture.
We were there on an afternoon when there was a fun folk music performance. A nice crowd was gathered on the lawn to watch, many with picnic blankets. The music was great, and there were even some people dancing.
Twice a year, the House of Pacific Relations sponsors major festivals in the city of San Diego. The Annual Ethnic Food Fair takes place in the spring, featuring food, drink, and entertainment from the different national groups.
In December, the cottages are home to the International Christmas Festival, with food and festivities inspired by winter holidays from around the world. The Christmas Festival is held during Balboa Park’s December Nights, an event that takes place on the first Friday and Saturday nights of December inside the park. This is one of many amazing things to do during Christmas in San Diego.
What Countries Are Represented?
You can learn about the different cultures of numerous countries represented at the House of Pacific Relations International Cottages. Here is the current list:
- House of Chamorros
- House of China
- House of Colombia
- House of Czech and Slovak Republics
- House of Denmark
- House of England
- House of Finland
- House of France
- House of Germany
- House of Hungary
- House of India
- House of Iran
- House of Ireland
- House of Israel
- House of Italy
- House of Korea
- House of Lebanon
- House of Mexico
- House of Norway
- House of Pakistan
- House of Palestine
- House of Panama
- House of Peru
- House of the Philippines
- House of Poland
- House of Puerto Rico
- House of Scotland
- House of Somalia
- House of Spain
- House of Sweden
- House of Türkiye
- House of Ukraine
- House of USA
There is also a Hall of Nations in the cottage area. Cultures that don’t have their own cottage host in the Hall of Nations on certain Sundays, showcasing their culture through exhibits. In addition, you can browse or purchase souvenirs at the lovely gift shop.
Here is a map of the entire area.
Hours
The Balboa Park international houses are open year-round, but only on weekends.
Saturday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
In addition, a few of the cottages are open from 12 to 2 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of each month on Resident Free Days.
However, even if the cottages are not open, you can still wander through the area as the park does not close. It is a really quiet and pretty spot to enjoy.
House of the Pacific Relations International Cottages
- 2294 Pan American Plaza, San Diego
- (610) 234-0739
- sdhpr.org
Save This Guide to the Balboa Park International Cottages for Later!
Planning a visit to Balboa Park in downtown San Diego? Pin the image below for future reference.
